Assessment of "JalyuktShivar - A Study of Mangalwedha Tahsil in Solapur District Using Geospatial Technology"

Abstract The "JalyuktShivarAbhiyan" is a flagship water conservation initiative launched by the Government of Maharashtra to make villages drought-free by enhancing groundwater recharge and ensuring water availability through decentralized water harvesting structures. This study assesses the impact of the JalyuktShivar initiative in Mangalwedha Tahsil of Solapur district using geospatial technology. Remote sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools were employed to analyze land use/land cover changes, water body expansion, and vegetation health before and after the implementation of the program. Satellite imagery from pre- and post intervention periods was processed and interpreted to evaluate the effectiveness of the watershed management activities. The results indicate a significant improvement in water storage capacity, agricultural productivity, and vegetation index in targeted areas. This case study highlights the role of geospatial technology as a vital tool for monitoring and evaluating water conservation initiatives, providing critical insights for sustainable water resource management in drought-prone regions.