Marking a significant step towards sustainable rural development and water security, a Johad (pond) was formally inaugurated on 10th February 2026 in Pehal, Alwar, Rajasthan. This initiative represents a collaborative effort by FIDEV, Germany; Time to Help, Germany; Hope and Action Foundation, New Delhi; and the Centre for Social Research, New Delhi, reflecting a shared commitment to community upliftment through long-term, impact-driven interventions.
The project was undertaken in response to the acute water scarcity faced by the village, which had severely affected both livelihoods and the local ecosystem. With limited access to drinking water, livestock health had deteriorated considerably, leading to a decline in milk yield and reduced value in livestock markets. As cattle form the backbone of the rural economy, this had far-reaching consequences for the financial stability of local families. The restoration of the Johad will transform this reality: livestock will have direct and safe access to water, enabling them to drink and bathe freely. This will improve their health, productivity, and overall economic value, offering renewed hope to the community.
Beyond immediate relief, the Johad serves as a sustainable water conservation structure, strengthening groundwater recharge and enhancing resilience against future water shortages. It stands as a testament to how traditional water systems, when revived with collective effort, can deliver lasting environmental and socio-economic benefits.
Hope and Action Foundation, established in 2021, has been consistently working towards alleviating poverty and supporting communities that struggle to meet basic necessities. As part of a broader global network, the Foundation is associated with the Hizmet Movement, a transnational civil society initiative inspired by the ideas of renowned Islamic scholar Fethullah Gülen. Rooted in the principles of compassion, inclusivity, and selfless service, the movement advocates extending help to all individuals in need, irrespective of caste, creed, or background.
The successful inauguration of the Johad in Pehal is not just the completion of an infrastructure project, but the beginning of renewed livelihoods, ecological balance, and community resilience. It highlights the power of collaboration and reinforces the belief that sustainable change is possible when organizations come together with a shared vision of service and humanity.
This project, undertaken by the Hope and Action Foundation, is the second of its kind in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. The previous one was completed in 2024.