In the remote village of Joypur in Sonitpur district of Assam, situated on the border of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, a group of determined farmers has revived a forgotten irrigation system, transforming their parched fields into a thriving oasis. This inspiring story shows how local wisdom can tackle global challenges like climate change and food insecurity.

For six months every year, Joypur’s fields lay barren due to severe water shortages. Farmers couldn’t grow enough to feed their families, let alone sell anything. Today, Joypur’s landscape tells a different story. Lush green fields stretch across approximately 50 hectares, bursting with various crops from paddy to vegetables.

The secret? A 1.5-kilometer irrigation drain that lay forgotten for years.

When the FARM North East Programme arrived in Joypur in 2022, they found a community ready for change. Together, they hatched a plan to revive the old irrigation system.

Under the leadership of Mr. Immanuel Chocha, FARM Community Educator, a management committee was formed to oversee maintenance. Each household committed to dedicating a specific day for the cleaning effort. Every Wednesday, you’ll find the villagers cleaning the drain, each household taking turns. Those who miss their shift pay a fine of Rs. 350, ensuring everyone does their part. Additionally, an annual contribution of Rs. 300 per farmer was introduced to hire machinery for periodic desilting.

The results have been transformative. Where only a single crop was once possible, Joypur’s 47 farming families now harvest year-round. They grow paddy, maize, millet, bananas, lemons, and seasonal vegetables, diversifying their income and improving nutrition.

The revival of the irrigation system has allowed farmers to diversify their crops. In addition to traditional paddy, they now grow maize, millet, bananas, lemons, and various seasonal vegetables. This diversity improves nutrition and provides a buffer against crop failures and market fluctuations.

Joypur’s success offers a blueprint for addressing water scarcity in rural India. By combining traditional knowledge with community-driven action, these farmers have created a sustainable solution that could be replicated in other water-stressed regions.

As Wilson Kandulna, FPA, TSSS stated, “This initiative demonstrates the strength of community-led action in overcoming agricultural challenges. By reviving a traditional irrigation system, Joypur’s farmers have secured their agricultural future, ensuring food security and financial stability for years to come.”

Joypur’s success isn’t just about irrigation, it’s a powerful example of climate adaptation in action. As extreme weather events become more frequent, such community-led initiatives could be key to ensuring food security worldwide.