water crisis

Across India, citizens are joining hands to revive lakes and rivers. From Chennai to Coimbatore, these people-led movements show how communities can solve the water crisis.

Amid India’s growing water crisis, meet five inspiring water warriors who are restoring ponds, building check dams, and bringing clean water to millions. This September, The Better India Showcase 2025 is honouring their impact.

Once shaping cities and legends, India's rivers now run dry, silent witnesses to climate change and neglect. What led to their decline, and what does it mean for our future?

Under the leadership of former sarpanch Chhavi Rajawat, Rajasthan’s Soda Village saw improved infrastructure and water harvesting practices.

Prashant Sharma quit his job in London to launch a non-profit organisation called ‘Positive Action for Child and Earth Foundation’. Through this, he provides greywater recycling solutions to schools, colleges and other organisations.

The residents of Chitlapakkam in Chennai restored a 50-acre lake after years of efforts, petitions, & cleaning drives. Their efforts resulted in the state sanctioning Rs 25 crore for the project.

Abhay Todkar, a 44-year-old from drought-prone Dahiwadi village defied the odds of living with polio to lead a remarkable water conservation movement. His efforts have brought sustainable change to 64 villages, turning struggles into triumphs through determination and community-driven initiatives.

Spearheaded by IAS officer Manish Bansal, this initiative was started to revive the Sot river and combat the water crisis in Sambhal.

The residents of Chitlapakkam in Chennai have restored a 50-acre lake after years of efforts, petitions, cleaning drives, and a relentless campaign called #SavingChitlapakkamLake. Their efforts resulted in the state sanctioning Rs 25 crores for the project.

Prashant Sharma quit his job in London to launch a non-profit organisation called ‘Positive Action for Child and Earth Foundation’. Through this, he provides greywater recycling solutions to schools.