Revived Janawada Lake boosts livelihood for fishermen

Bidar

The Janawada lake in Bidar district, restored under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) as part of the Mission Amrit Sarovar initiative two years ago, has become a key source of income for local fishermen. Once prone to drying up, the lake now sustains many families who are earning up to Rs 4.5 lakh annually by selling fish in cities like Hyderabad, Pune, and Bengaluru.

Panchayat Development Officer Anilkumar Chitta shared that the rejuvenation was aimed at generating employment during summer for MGNREGA workers. “We desilted the 57-acre lake using Rs 5 lakh. Water flows in from Janawad and Markal villages, and now the lake supports several fishing families,” he said.

Deputy Director of Fisheries Jannama said the first batch yield this year was 1.5 quintals, in line with fisheries department rules. "The department will provide fish nets, boats, and training. The Amrit Sarovar project improved the water level and fish output, thanks to collective efforts of different departments," she said.

Zilla Panchayat CEO Girish Badole added that roads around the lake have been developed, helping transportation and plantation work. “The green surroundings add beauty and attract visitors. This is a great example of community development through proper resource use,” he stated.

The revival of Janawada lake stands as a successful model of rural employment and environmental conservation, offering new hope to the fishing community.