From Rain to Riches: Tina Dabi’s Water Wisdom Wins Rs 2 Crore Presidential Honour

Updated: November 21, 2025 15:48

Image source: Youtube

IAS officer Tina Dabi, serving as Barmer Collector, has been awarded the inaugural Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award by President Droupadi Murmu, along with a cash prize of Rs 2 crore. Her innovative rainwater harvesting initiatives have transformed Barmer into a model district for water conservation in arid Rajasthan

In yet another remarkable achievement, IAS Tina Dabi, the 2015 UPSC topper and current Collector of Barmer, Rajasthan, has secured national recognition for her pioneering work in water conservation. At the 6th National Water Awards 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred upon Barmer district the first Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award, acknowledging Dabi’s leadership in mobilizing community-driven rainwater harvesting projects.

Barmer, one of India’s driest districts, has long struggled with acute water scarcity. Dabi’s administration introduced the “Tanka Model” under the Catch the Rain campaign, ensuring rooftop rainwater harvesting tanks were integrated into rural housing schemes. By December 2024, more than 87,000 tanks had been built, alongside the revival of lakes, ponds, and stepwells. These efforts not only provided safe drinking water for months but also reduced risks for women fetching water from unsafe sources.

Her initiatives have now become a national blueprint for water conservation in desert regions, demonstrating how grassroots participation and administrative innovation can reshape environmental sustainability.

Key Highlights

Historic Recognition: Barmer district received the first Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Award, presented by President Droupadi Murmu.
Cash Prize: A grant of Rs 2 crore was awarded to support further water conservation efforts.
Innovative Model: The Tanka Model enabled rooftop rainwater harvesting, ensuring safe storage for 3–4 months.
Community Participation: Dabi emphasized public involvement, making water conservation a collective responsibility.
Scale of Impact: Over 87,000 rainwater tanks constructed; traditional water bodies revived across Barmer.
National Blueprint: The model is now being replicated in other arid and semi-arid regions of India.

Closing Note

Tina Dabi’s recognition is more than a personal milestone—it is a testament to how visionary governance and community engagement can turn scarcity into sustainability. By transforming Barmer into a water-secure district, she has set a precedent for tackling India’s pressing environmental challenges with innovation and inclusivity.

Sources: News18, The Better India, DNA India, Indian Masterminds

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