Imagine a desert where water is a dream. Villages struggling to grow crops, women walking miles for a drop of water, children unable to attend school because of daily chores. Now imagine one woman stepping in and changing all that. Amla Ruia, often called the “Water Mother of India,” transformed thousands of villages in Rajasthan with her revolutionary water conservation efforts. Her story isn’t just about water—it’s about hope, resilience, and a legacy that inspires millions.
How Amla Ruia Turned Thirst into Life
Amla Ruia’s journey began with a simple but powerful belief: no village should thirst for water. She founded the Aakar Charitable Trust (ACT) and focused on reviving traditional water harvesting systems—check dams, ponds, and rainwater storage.
- Over 1,300 water bodies created across 11 states
- 814 check dams and 494 ponds built in Rajasthan alone
- Villages now cultivate up to three crops annually
- Local communities take ownership of the projects
Her method isn’t just technical—it’s deeply community-driven. Villagers contribute resources and maintain the water systems, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Empowering Women, Changing Lives
Water scarcity often hits women hardest. Amla’s efforts drastically reduced the burden of water collection, giving women more time for education, income activities, and self-empowerment. Children now attend school instead of walking miles for water, and farmers see real growth in crop yield and income.
A Lasting Legacy
Amla Ruia’s work is recognized nationwide, with awards like the Jamnalal Bajaj Award and the Grihshobha Inspire Award. Today, ACT continues to build over 300 water bodies every year, spreading the impact to Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh. Her vision is simple: every village with sustainable water, every community thriving.
Why Her Story Matters to You
It’s a reminder that one person’s vision can spark a revolution, that small actions—like building a pond—can ripple into lasting social change. Amla Ruia didn’t just bring water; she brought hope, dignity, and opportunity to countless lives.
Question for Readers
What would you do if you had the power to solve a crisis in your community like Amla Ruia did?
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