Dusharla Satyanarayana, an influential water rights activist and founder of the Jala Sadhana Samithi (JSS), has dedicated over 50 years of his life to advocating for sustainable water management in Telangana’s Nalgonda district. His work emphasises the critical intersection of water rights and environmental sustainability, making him a prominent figure among pro-planet advocates.

Early Life and Awakening

Born on March 12, 1954, in Raghavapuram village, Telangana, Satyanarayana’s connection to agriculture began early. He pursued a degree in agriculture and worked as a Rural Development Officer before realising the urgent need for water rights advocacy. The severe impact of fluorosis due to contaminated water sources motivated him to establish JSS in 1980, focusing on equitable access to drinking and irrigation water.

Activism and Community Mobilization

Satyanarayana’s activism is marked by grassroots mobilization. He organised padayatras to raise awareness about water issues, drawing attention to the plight of farmers facing severe water scarcity. His efforts have led to significant community engagement, empowering local populations to demand their rights and adopt sustainable practices. Notably, his campaigns brought the issue of fluorosis in Nalgonda to national attention, forcing governmental action to address this public health crisis.

Sustainable Practices and Environmental Stewardship

In addition to advocating for water rights, Satyanarayana promotes sustainable agricultural practices. He has transformed his ancestral land into a vibrant forest ecosystem spanning 70 acres, populated with over 5 crore trees, including lakhs of fruit-bearing varieties such as guava, mango, and jamun. Some of these trees are over 50 years old while others have grown in the last three decades. This remarkable achievement showcases the benefits of biodiversity and ecological balance. His initiatives include:

• Agroforestry: Planting diverse tree species that enhance soil health and provide habitat for wildlife.
• Water Conservation: Implementing innovative techniques such as constructing ponds with check dams that mimic traditional Kakatiya irrigation tanks to improve groundwater recharge.
• Community Education: Conducting workshops on sustainable farming techniques that reduce dependency on chemical fertilizers and promote organic practices.

Biodiversity and Ecosystem Restoration

Satyanarayana’s forest is not just a personal project; it serves as a habitat for numerous species. Home to hundreds of birds and various wildlife species, his forest thrives without protective fences or security guards—its preservation rests solely on his guardianship. He recalls how he began creating this forest at the age of four by spreading tamarind seeds and other plants in what was once grazing land.

He explains that not even a single fruit or forest resource goes out for commercial purposes or human consumption; everything that grows here is consumed by thousands of birds and other wildlife, contributing to the ecosystem’s rejuvenation. A rough estimate shows about 10 lakh trees per acre, leading to over 5 crore trees across his land.

Government Initiatives Supporting Sustainability

The Telangana government has implemented several schemes that align with Satyanarayana’s vision for sustainable agriculture, including:

• Rythu Bandhu Scheme: Providing financial support to farmers for sustainable farming inputs.
• Mission Kakatiya: Reviving traditional tanks to improve irrigation efficiency and groundwater levels.
• National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): Focusing on integrated farming practices that enhance productivity while conserving natural resources.

Personal Philosophy and Legacy

Satyanarayana describes himself as a servant of nature, emphasising his spiritual connection to the environment. He has invested all his savings into this project over the decades, showcasing his commitment to sustainability and long-term ecological stewardship. His family background as landlords has instilled in him a profound respect for the land he protects.

Despite offers from developers—including one for ₹100 crore—he remains resolute in his commitment not to commercialise the land. He believes that humans must understand the importance of environmental protection; without forests, wildlife cannot survive.

Future Aspirations

Looking ahead, Satyanarayana intends to create additional ponds and expand his forest project further. His vision includes continuing to educate others about the importance of nature conservation while fostering community engagement in sustainable practices.

Public Recognition

Dusharla Satyanarayana’s work has inspired many within Telangana and beyond. His story has been featured in various media outlets, highlighting his role as a “green mascot” for the region. Through his relentless efforts, he exemplifies the spirit of pro-planet activism.

The Logical Indian’s Perspective

At The Logical Indian, we believe that Dusharla Satyanarayana’s story exemplifies the power of grassroots activism in creating positive social change. His unwavering commitment to protecting our water resources reflects our values of empathy and coexistence with all living beings. In an increasingly industrialised world facing climate change challenges, Satyanarayana’s journey reminds us that every effort counts in preserving our planet for future generations. How can we collectively support initiatives like his that champion environmental sustainability while fostering community resilience? We invite you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!