Groundwater Conservation: Chhattisgarh's '5% Model'

Chhattisgarh's Korea district has emerged as a national model in groundwater conservation through its innovative '5% Model', addressing escalating water scarcity. This initiative is crucial for UPSC aspirants, particularly for GS Paper 3, which covers environmental conservation and water resource management. Last Updated: 17-06-2026

Key Facts About the '5% Model'

• The '5% Model' encourages villagers to allocate 5% of their agricultural land for soak pits.
• Soak pits aid in rainwater percolation, groundwater recharge, and soil moisture retention.
• The initiative expanded from 2,000 to 30,000 soak pits within a year.
• The '30–40 Model' involves digging 30 feet by 40 feet contour trenches on barren land.
• Executed under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS), rebranded locally as Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin).
• Community participation is driven by women leaders, 'Neer Nayikas', and youth volunteers, 'Jal Doots'.
• The local campaign is branded as 'Aawa Paani Jhonki', meaning "let’s catch the rain" in Sargujia dialect.
• Post-monsoon groundwater levels improved from 6.6 meters BGL in 2024 to 3.89 meters BGL in 2025.

India's Groundwater Conservation Efforts

The '5% Model' in Korea district is a microcosm of India's broader efforts to tackle water scarcity, aligning with national goals for sustainable water management. With groundwater levels depleting nationwide, such community-led initiatives are pivotal for ecological balance and agricultural sustainability. India's groundwater conservation strategies are integral to achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and improving the country's global environmental rankings.

UPSC Relevance

• GS Paper 3: Environment, Conservation, and Water Resource Management.
• Prelims: Questions on the '5% Model', its objectives, and measurable impacts.
• Mains: Analytical themes on community-led conservation strategies and their ecological impacts.
• Essay Paper: Topics on sustainable development and grassroots environmental movements.

FAQ Section

• What is the '5% Model'? The '5% Model' is an initiative encouraging villagers to dedicate 5% of their land for soak pits to enhance groundwater recharge and soil moisture.
• Why is the '5% Model' important? It addresses water scarcity by improving groundwater levels and soil moisture, crucial for sustainable agriculture and ecological balance.
• What are the key features of the '5% Model'? Key features include community participation, rapid expansion of soak pits, and measurable ecological impacts, supported by national employment schemes.