IWMP Rajouri’s Block Doongi clinches Watershed Janbhagidari Cup, Secures ₹20 Lakh award

RAJOURI : The Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP), Rajouri Block Doongi, under the Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj has brought laurels to the district by winning the prestigious Watershed Janbhagidari Cup, along with a cash award of ₹20 lakh, for outstanding community participation and sustainable watershed development.
The award was presented at a function held at Panchayat Bhawan, Jammu, by the Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Javid Ahmad Dar in the presence of Secretary, RDD & PR, Mohammad Aijaz Asad and CEO IWMP J&K, Rajnish Kumar.
The honour was received by Project Manager IWMP Rajouri, Auqil Nuvaid, on behalf of the district team.
The recognition underscores the remarkable success of community-led watershed interventions undertaken in Block Doongi during the financial year 2024–25, which have significantly enhanced water conservation, irrigation potential and agricultural sustainability in the region.
Under the programme, a total of 123 durable watershed assets were created, including 28 spring development works, 37 water harvesting tanks, 47 field channels, 3 check dams, 1 irrigation canal, 2 nallah bunds and 5 ponds. These interventions have collectively improved groundwater recharge, strengthened irrigation efficiency and enhanced livelihood opportunities for rural households.
Congratulating the IWMP Rajouri team, the dignitaries appreciated their inclusive planning, strong community participation and effective execution, describing the achievement as a benchmark for participatory and sustainable rural development in Jammu and Kashmir.