Photos after Phase-1 completion – recent monsoon has already benefited 60 hectares of land double their crop output.

Kelapur region of Maharashtra has seen 243 suicides since 2002. For this project, we are working with Deendayal Trust, our NGO partner, to restore a reservoir and canal in Pathari village (or Pathri) in the Kelapur Taluka of Yavatmal district in Maharashtra in next 4-5 months. Around 256 families (population 1300) in this village depend on rain or reservoir for agriculture and daily use. The canal as well as the reservoir is in desperate need of desilting for :

Allowing farmers to harvest a second crop besides cotton. Currently, they harvest 1 crop a year in monsoon. 170+ acres of agricultural land will be able to use water from the canal to grow second crop like vegetables and provide a source of food for their families.
Increasing water table of the reservoir by about 25%. This region only gets 575 mm average rainfall per monsoon season, which is not enough to sustain for agricultural needs throughout the year. The reservoir will help with water conservation, so that it lasts throughout the year for agriculture as well as livestock needs.
Improving the quality of life of farmers in the Pathari village over next few years.
The project calls for raising around USD 22,000 for completion. The villagers of Pathari village will contribute towards 5% of the project costs. Those who cannot contribute monetarily, will contribute labor. Here are budget details of the project.