Kolar district has achieved national recognition for its exceptional water conservation efforts, earning a prestigious award and ₹25 lakh prize
Kolar
Kolar district has earned a prestigious national award under the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari (JSJB) Abhiyan for its remarkable work in water conservation and natural resource protection. The district’s efforts—ranging from rejuvenating hundreds of lakes to developing major feeder canals—have significantly boosted groundwater levels and improved irrigation facilities. Along with the award, Kolar has also received a cash prize of ₹25 lakh, making it the top-performing district in the Bengaluru division.
A central inspection team visited multiple villages across Mulbagal, Srinivaspura, Malur, Kolar, and Bangarpet taluks to review works carried out under MGNREGA, Jal Jeevan Mission, Atal Bhujal Yojana, and forestry, agriculture, and horticulture departments. Their report highlighted Kolar’s outstanding execution of water conservation initiatives.
Between April 2024 and March 2025, Kolar completed around 8,470 water-related works and uploaded details on the Jal Sanchay portal. These projects included bund construction, recharge pits, soak pits, lake development, tank strengthening, Kalyani restoration, rainwater harvesting structures, open well desilting, nala deepening, and check-dam construction. These interventions played a crucial role in improving groundwater and providing reliable water for agriculture in a district that has no major rivers.
Under the JSJB campaign, five zones were evaluated. In Zone 3—comprising Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu—seven Karnataka districts received national recognition. Among them, Kolar secured the first place in the Bengaluru division.
The district’s success reflects the spirit of the campaign’s motto: “Unite for water, conserve every drop.” By strengthening community participation, promoting water awareness, and building sustainable conservation structures, Kolar has demonstrated an impactful model for addressing water scarcity and improving climate resilience.