RANA had initiated the rainwater harvesting project at the time of its First International Convention in 2003. The rainwater harvesting project has two major objectives: Demonstrate a working rainwater harvesting scheme that is economically viable, self-sustainable and replicable. Assist Rajasthan Government in formulating public policy for widespread adoption of rainwater harvesting, both in rural and urban areas. Its implementation requires innovations in economic systems, utilization of information technology, advancements in construction methodology, and mobilization of beneficiary population. RANA has completed the Rainwater Harvesting Project at 1) Birla Institue of Technology (BITS) Campus, Pilani, 2) Raila village near Pilani, 3) Indrasar village in Churu District. The Government of Rajasthan agreed to provide 50% of matching funds for Indrasar village project and the local community of Indrasar provided 20% of the cost through Bhoruka Charitable Trust. RANA has submitted a proposal to the World Bank for sponsorship under its Innovations in Water initiative. Concurrently RANA will solicit donors who had expressed strong interest in 2003. Further, RANA would present this project at the Bhartiya Pravasi Diwas in January 2006. Our partners in this project are Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, and Bhoruka Charitable Trust, Bhorugram. We appreciate their leadership in implementing the scheme using satellite imagery, in leading the technology development, and in mobilizing the villages. Dr. B. P. Agrawal envisioned the project and is spearheading its implementation.

Contact Person:Rajasthan Association of North America, info@ranausa.org