At present, there is a widespread clamor for water due to the ongoing drought. However, in these specific four villages, ponds and wells are brimming with water, bringing joy to the residents. This unique abundance of water is attributed to the efforts of a water-conscious individual!
In these villages, people are seen bathing and refreshing themselves in the ponds, where the water has warmed up pleasantly amidst the hot weather. This picturesque scene unfolded in Bombaraga village in the Belgaum taluk. But it doesn’t end there. Similar scenes of overflowing water are witnessed in the ponds and wells of Kattanbhavi, Ningyannatti, and Guramatti villages. Despite the harsh drought conditions, the ample water and lush surroundings are credited to the proactive decision-making of environmentalist Shivaaji Kaganikar.
Shivaji Chhatrapati Kaganikar hails from Kadoli village in Belgaum taluk. He embarked on his journey as a devoted Gandhian, environmentalist, educator, and activist in 1972 after leaving his hometown. His water conservation efforts have transformed numerous villages, bringing lush greenery to their surroundings. Even at the age of 75, Shivaji Kaganikar continues to traverse from one village to another, meticulously observing the trees he has planted.
In 1984, the inaugural tree-planting campaign commenced within the premises of Handiganur Primary School, marking the onset of his environmental endeavors. Subsequently, progress was witnessed across various domains. Concurrently, he distributed 5,000 saplings provided by the Forest Department among students, fostering environmental awareness. This initiative extended to schools in the vicinity, instilling consciousness among students and communities alike.
Previously, the local community faced water scarcity issues. Shivaji stepped forward to address this concern. Inspired by the watershed management initiatives led by renowned social activist Anna Hazare in his native Ralegaon Siddhi, Maharashtra, Shivaji implemented similar measures in his own locality. Rudolph from Germany provided a grant of Rs. 30 lakhs for the watershed development project. Collaborating with the Janajagaran organization and Green Saviors, they planted trees and constructed 2 reservoirs in Kattanabavi, 3 in Ningyanatti, and 1 each in Iddilahonda and Guramatti villages.
Efforts were made to rejuvenate lakes, wells, and channels. Water was directed from canals to wells and from wells to rivers. Parallel drainage systems were established to capture runoff from hillsides to lower-lying areas, with trees planted alongside these drains. As a result, groundwater levels in the region have risen significantly. Shivaji’s tree-planting initiative has surpassed 2 lakh saplings planted to date.
Currently, we are confronted with significant challenges, including air and water pollution, as well as land degradation. It is imperative for the youth of our nation to recognize their role in combating environmental pollution. Unfortunately, many young individuals are neglecting this responsibility by prioritizing involvement in politics, thereby jeopardizing their own future. Shivaji Kivimathu emphasized the urgency of addressing this issue before it escalates into a catastrophe, urging proactive efforts to safeguard the environment.
Shivaji Kagnikar’s water conservation initiatives attracted attention from individuals outside the state, including trained forest officers and students from Meghalaya, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh. Shivaji provided them with insights into his methods for water and tree conservation.
Commenting on this, BJP leader Shankar Gowda Patil commended Kagnikar’s exemplary work, stating that he serves as a role model for all of us. Kagnikar’s efforts in water conservation have garnered praise from visitors hailing from various North Indian states, who also provided valuable guidance. Additionally, officials from the Valmi Institute of Dharwad visited the site to study his work.
Senior lawyer N.R. Latur likened Shivaji Kaganikar, who restored lakes and wells during droughts, to a modern-day Bhagirath. He emphasized the importance of the government implementing Kaganikar’s initiatives in other regions to address the drought situation in the state.
Gajanana Masenatti, a resident of Bambaraga village, expressed gratitude towards Shivaji Kaganikar for providing water to their village, which was previously facing water scarcity. Masenatti credited Kaganikar’s efforts in planting and nurturing millions of plants and trees for the abundance of water in the lake and well. He remarked that no amount of gratitude could suffice for Kaganikar’s contributions.
