Dhara Vikas: Creating water security through spring-shed development in Sikkim

Dhara Vikas is an innovative programme to revive and maintain drying springs in the north-eastern state of Sikkim. A robust climate adaptation strategy for drought-prone districts, Dhara Vikas (meaning, spring-shed development) is helping to alleviate the problem of rural water scarcity by reducing surface runoff of rainwater and allowing more water to percolate down to recharge underground aquifers, which, in turn, ensures increased discharge from springs. Besides its significant impact on crop patterns and yields, the programme has also worked on developing a village spring atlas and a water source atlas for the state. Water access to the population through this initiative has also led to improved sanitation practices.

Rationale

Objectives

Key Stakeholders

Implementation Strategy

Resources Utilised

Impact

Dhara Vikas’ Innovative Approach

Key Challenges

Replicability and Sustainability

Conclusion