In a significant recognition of relentless environmental service, Dr Rajendra Singh, widely revered as the 'Waterman of India', has been honoured with the prestigious Sanctuary Lifetime Service Award. The award was presented on World Environment Day, June 5, 2024, by Sanctuary Asia magazine, celebrating his extraordinary five-decade-long dedication to reviving rivers and watersheds across the country.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Rivers
The Sanctuary Lifetime Service Award stands as one of India's highest honours in the field of wildlife and habitat conservation. It acknowledges individuals whose lifelong work has created a profound and lasting impact on the nation's natural heritage. For Dr Rajendra Singh, this accolade is a testament to a journey that began in the 1980s in the arid Alwar district of Rajasthan.
Through his organization, Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), Dr Singh pioneered a grassroots movement for water sovereignty. He championed the revival of ancient rainwater harvesting techniques, most notably the construction of johads (earthen check dams). This community-driven effort did not just combat severe drought but led to the miraculous resurrection of several seasonal rivers, including the Arvari, Ruparel, Sarsa, and Bhagani.
The Ripple Effect of Conservation
The impact of Dr Singh's work extends far beyond water collection. The rejuvenation of rivers sparked a remarkable ecological and social transformation in the regions he worked. The return of water led to the revival of forests, the return of wildlife, and a dramatic improvement in agricultural productivity and local economies. His model demonstrated that community empowerment and traditional wisdom are pivotal in solving modern environmental crises.
His philosophy and successful methods have inspired countless other water conservation movements across India and the globe. Dr Singh's advocacy has consistently highlighted the intrinsic link between water security, forest conservation, and climate resilience.
A Legacy of Recognition and Continued Struggle
This is not the first national honour for the Waterman of India. His mantle already includes the Magsaysay Award in 2001 and the Stockholm Water Prize in 2015. The Sanctuary Award adds another distinguished feather to his cap, reinforcing his status as a living legend in environmental conservation.
Despite the accolades, Dr Rajendra Singh remains a vocal and active campaigner. He continues to fight against projects he views as detrimental to river ecosystems and works tirelessly to promote sustainable water management policies. The award underscores that his lifetime of service is an ongoing mission, more critical than ever in the face of climate change and water scarcity challenges.
The conferment of the Sanctuary Lifetime Service Award serves as a powerful reminder of the difference one determined individual can make. Dr Rajendra Singh's story is not just about awards; it is a blueprint for community-led environmental action that heals landscapes and secures futures.
