Project Narrative

In order to achieve the goals MRM relies on four major pillars: science and technology, community mobilization, supply side and demand side. All the four pillars together forms the framework of the project, which helps us achieve the identified objectives and goals with reduced cost. Science and technology - Use of science and technology has enabled MRM to maximise its impact with limited resources. Also, it has removed the traditional method of decision making which has its own flaws and drawbacks. Hydrogeology plays a complimentary role to the watershed development program through efficient allocation of resources by identifying focus areas which give maximum impact. Community Mobilisation Ð If we look at MRM, the project uses various inputs to deliver various outcomes. All of this revolves around one major component i.e. community. The community is the intended beneficiary of all the initiatives under MRM. Hence their participation becomes a critical factor for the success of the project. Sense of ownership ensures sustainability. Sense of ownership is achieved through community participation. Hence, Cummins put in concerted effort through trainings, capacity building and community contributions to ensure participation from the community. Supply Side Ð Supply side deals with asset creation aspect along with other components. An implementing partner is responsible for creation of various structures which reduces the surface run-off and helps in increasing water storage capacity. In our project no new structures are created. All the existing tanks which are created over the years by various agencies, such as the Government, but now are silted, are desilted and surface area treatment work is done in places where it is required. Demand Side - After working on improving the supply side of water, MRM progressed on to managing demand side of water availability i.e. ensuring efficient utilization of available water. Cummins along with its partner NGO conducted trainings, hand holding farmers to demonstrate scientific and efficient agricultural and animal husbandry practices. These farmers in turn demonstrate these practices to rest of the farmers from the village. Support is provided to needy and eager farmers who are ready to take up efficient practices.