Ramprasad Ram, a resident of Devsara Kala village in Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh, found himself at a crossroads due to financial hardships. Having exhausted his savings in building a small house for his family, he faced setbacks in agriculture due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With mounting debts and no means to continue farming, he reluctantly took up labor work in Sikkim, leaving behind his village and dreams.
During his time away, Ramprasad received a phone call from his wife, informing him about the commencement of the NABARD Jalgrahan Yojana in their village. Motivated by the prospect of returning to his roots and seeking a solution to his financial woes, he decided to return with his savings of ₹15,000. Upon his arrival, he joined the soil conservation work under the Jalgrahan project.
As Ramprasad immersed himself in the project, he found renewed hope and purpose. Over 38 days of diligent work, he earned ₹20,000, which was credited to his bank account. This unexpected income brought immense joy and relief, prompting him to share his experience with fellow villagers. Inspired by his success, others also returned from Sikkim to participate in the Jalgrahan project.
The impact of the Jalgrahan Yojana extended beyond financial gains. It instilled a sense of pride and belonging among the villagers, as they collectively worked towards conserving soil and revitalizing their land. Ramprasad's determination and perseverance became a catalyst for change, as he vowed to never abandon his village again.
With newfound confidence and support from NABARD and READS (Rural Education and Development Society), Ramprasad envisions a brighter future. He plans to reinvest his earnings, resume farming in his land, and never again resort to migration. His journey from adversity to empowerment is a testament to the transformative power of grassroots initiatives like the NABARD Jalgrahan Yojana.
Today, Ramprasad stands as a beacon of hope in his community, grateful for the life-changing impact of NABARD. His journey underscores the importance of sustainable rural development and the invaluable role played by organizations like NABARD and READS in uplifting the lives of countless individuals across rural India. Ramprasad remains forever indebted to NABARD and READS for changing his life trajectory and ensuring a brighter tomorrow for him and his village.