Water and Livelihood
Empowering tribal farmers in northern Chhattisgarh with sustainable agriculture, water security, and diversified livelihoods for resilience and growth.
Northern Chhattisgarh is predominantly inhabited by Adivasi communities and smallholder farmers whose livelihoods depend on rain-fed agriculture, forests, and natural resources. Farming in the region is largely subsistence-based, constrained by erratic rainfall, limited irrigation, and inadequate water harvesting systems. Factors such as undulating terrain, poor soil fertility, and fragmented landholdings further limit productivity, leading to low crop yields and seasonal water scarcity.
Limited access to quality inputs, extension services, credit, and markets continues to impact farm incomes, pushing many households towards wage labour, migration, or dependence on forest produce. Geographic isolation, weak infrastructure, and increasing environmental stress add to their vulnerability. Climate change has further intensified these challenges through unpredictable monsoons and reduced agricultural productivity.
In this context, strengthening water security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and enabling diversified livelihoods are essential to improving food security, income stability, and climate resilience for Adivasi and smallholder farming communities.
Current Projects
High Impact Mega Watershed Project
Chaupal works across 84 villages in Lakhanpur and Batauli blocks of Surguja district to strengthen water resource management and rural livelihoods. The initiative focuses on watershed development, creation of natural resource management assets, and improving water availability. Through community engagement and capacity building, the project promotes sustainable agriculture, diversified livelihoods, and stronger local institutions. It aims to enhance the incomes of small and marginal farmers, encourage women’s participation, and ensure long-term, community-led management of land and water resources
Jal Jeevan Mission (Partner Chhattisgarh State Government)
Chaupal supports the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water for every rural household and public institution, including schools, Anganwadi centres, health centres, and Gram Panchayat buildings. In Surguja district, the initiative is being carried out across 207 villages in Lakhanpur and Lundra blocks, focusing on community awareness, participation, and strengthening local capacities for sustainable water management. The effort promotes safe drinking water practices and contributes to the vision of “Har Ghar Jal”, ensuring access to safe drinking water for every rural household.
