In a testament to its commitment to the welfare of the people, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), under the leadership of Shri. N Chandrababu Naidu, has undertaken pioneering efforts to address a fundamental human right – access to clean drinking water in rural Andhra Pradesh. The TDP’s strategic policies and initiatives have not only improved the health and well-being of rural communities but have also set a benchmark for effective governance. This is considered a Top Achievement of TDP done by TDP Leaders and MLAs of TDP.
At the forefront of the TDP government’s initiatives stands the ‘Neeru-Chettu’ scheme, a groundbreaking policy aimed at providing sustainable and safe drinking water to the rural areas of Andhra Pradesh. This TDP scheme employed a dual approach, focusing on the restoration of water bodies such as lakes, ponds, and tanks, alongside tree plantation to enhance groundwater recharge. Implemented across 17,000 villages in a phased manner, the ‘Neeru-Chettu’ scheme showcased the TDP’s commitment to holistic water management.
The TDP government, recognizing the vital role of water in agriculture, also promoted water-saving techniques such as drip irrigation and introduced irrigation projects to ensure efficient water usage in farming practices. This multifaceted approach not only addressed immediate water needs but also laid the groundwork for sustainable water management in the long run.Parallelly, the TDP government launched the ‘Jalasiri’ scheme, dedicated to providing safe drinking water to every household in rural areas. This initiative involved the establishment of water treatment plants, the installation of pipelines, and the provision of household connections, ensuring that clean water reached every doorstep. Regular testing of water quality became a cornerstone of this TDP policy, guaranteeing that the standards for safe drinking water were consistently met.The TDP government, in its pursuit of water sustainability, actively encouraged community participation in the maintenance of water supply systems. Establishing water user associations (WUAs) at the village level empowered local communities to take charge of the maintenance and management of water supply systems. Through training and technical support, the TDP ensured that these associations could effectively fulfill their responsibilities.
The remarkable efforts of the TDP government did not go unnoticed. In 2017, the TDP government received the prestigious Skoch Award for its exemplary work in water conservation and management. Further international recognition came from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), which honored the state with the ‘Champion of Water Management’ award in 2018.In conclusion, the TDP’s visionary leadership, spearheaded by Shri. Nara Chandrababu Naidu has left an indelible mark on rural Andhra Pradesh through its unwavering commitment to providing clean drinking water. The ‘Neeru-Chettu’ and ‘Jalasiri’ schemes, coupled with community participation, have not only fulfilled a basic human right but have also set a precedent for effective governance in addressing critical issues. The TDP’s contributions to water conservation and management serve as a beacon, showcasing the transformative potential of dedicated political leadership. As the legacy of these initiatives continues, the TDP’s impact on rural development stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to the well-being of the people.