Velhe Taluka in the Western Ghats of Maharashtra is home to 4,194 people across nine villages, and this region holds global ecological significance. The Western Ghats, older than the Himalayas, shape India’s monsoon patterns, shelter 325 globally threatened species, and boast breathtaking biodiversity. Yet, this vital landscape faces an uncertain future.

Erratic rainfall, soil erosion, water scarcity and degraded ecosystems are taking a toll on Velhe’s communities. For households reliant on farming and natural resources, these challenges translate into declining crop yields, vanishing water sources, and rising vulnerabilities to climate change. Without intervention, these threats risk undermining both human well-being and ecological health in this UNESCO-recognized biodiversity hotspot.

A Vision for Change

To address these urgent issues, our Watershed Ecology Project blends nature-based solutions with community-driven action. Guided by the principles of balance between ecology and economy, this initiative aims to secure water resources, revive biodiversity, and empower the local population to steward their natural heritage.

The project’s primary goal is to ensure water security for both people and nature while restoring ecosystem resilience. By adopting a 5J approach—Jal (Water), Jameen (Soil), Jan (People), Jungle (Forest), and Jeev (Life)— we tackle interconnected environmental challenges.

How We’re Making an Impact

The project’s interventions focus on tangible solutions:

• Watershed Management: Constructing loose boulder structures, gabions and trenches to conserve soil, reduce runoff and replenish groundwater.
• Community Engagement: Mobilizing villagers to contribute through “Shramadaan” (voluntary labor), fostering a sense of ownership. Awareness campaigns, including striking wall art, encourage sustainable water practices.
• Sustainable Farming Practices: Training farmers in crop water budgeting for efficient resource use and resilient agriculture.
• Infrastructure Repairs: Desilting drinking water wells and reviving water storage systems for increased access to clean water.

This two-year program will kick off post-monsoon in 2025, with phased implementation and community-driven maintenance strategies ensuring long-term success.

Why It Matters

This project isn’t just about addressing today’s challenges—it’s about building resilience for tomorrow. Increased spring discharge, improved soil fertility, and enriched biodiversity are just a few outcomes we anticipate. For Velhe’s communities, these changes mean reliable water access, thriving farmlands and economic stability. For the planet, it means safeguarding a critical ecological corridor that supports India’s monsoon system and mitigates climate impacts.

Sustaining the Future

At its core, this initiative is a partnership with the people of Velhe. Strengthened Village Development Committees will sustainably manage resources, while ongoing education fosters lasting environmental consciousness. By blending science with local wisdom, we aim to create a model for sustainable living for all while advancing and addressing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, including SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), 6 (Clean Water & Sanitation), 12 (Responsible Consumption & Production), 13 (Climate Action), 15 (Life on Land) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Join Us in This Transformation

This transformative work requires support from corporate donors, partners, individuals and organizations who believe in the power of community-led conservation and collective action.

We are committed to creating a sustainable future in the Western Ghats with your support. 

You will secure water and restore ecosystems, and you will help communities to thrive for generations to come.

You can reach us out at jyoti.verma@theraintree.org