An NGO introduced the concept of farm ponds, which replenished groundwater levels, and provided farmers means for a sustainable livelihood.
E Srikanth and K Manja. (Right) A farm pond. (Deepika Pasham/ South First)
Bala Vikasa, an NGO working with farmers of water-scarce regions of Telangana, is promoting farm ponds as a perennial replenishable water source. Many farmers in Medak and Medchal have taken to farm ponds after their borewell stopped working. These ponds effectively store and replenish groundwater and encourage farmers to profitably diversify into cultivating vegetables such as tomato and eggplant.