1000 Springs Initiative

The union ministry of tribal affairs launched the ‘1000 Springs Initiative’ to ensure water supply for tribal people, at a program in Odisha.

• Springs:

Spring is a component of the hydrosphere. It is a natural source of water used mainly in the mountainous regions. A spring is an outlet from aquifer (groundwater source) to the earth’s surface. Some springs are noted for containing dissolved minerals.

• Spring Atlas:

Spring Atlas was launched by the ministry of tribal affairs. It is an online portal which gives information, such as chemical and hydrological properties, on springs. It is GIS enabled. Information on more than 170 springs have been uploaded onto the Spring Atlas.

• Provisions of the Initiative:

The initiative will include:

• provision for piped drinking water supply infrastructure
• provision for irrigation water
• total sanitation initiatives that are community-led
• provision of water supply for backyard nutrition gardens
• creation of sustainable livelihood opportunities for the tribes.
• Employment of Tribal Youth:

The ‘1000 Springs Initiative’ employs more than 70 youths from the tribal populations of rural regions of Odisha. They were from 3 districts of Odisha- Kalahandi, Khandamal and Gajapati. They were trained as ‘barefoot hydro geologists’ and will be involved in identification, mapping, rejuvenation and implementing protection measures for the springs in their habitation.