Locally led adaptation
In India, one meaningful example of locally led adaptation is the revival of Johads in Rajasthan. Johads are traditional earthen water harvesting structures built to collect and store rainwater in drought prone areas. Rajasthan has always faced water scarcity, but with changing rainfall patterns and frequent droughts due to climate change, the situation became more serious. Groundwater levels were falling rapidly because of overuse of borewells, and many farmers were struggling to sustain their crops.
Local communities played a central role in bringing Johads back. Villagers came together to identify old and damaged water structures, contributed labor through collective community work, and participated in decisions about where and how to rebuild them. NGOs supported the process, but the planning and management largely remained in the hands of the community. Local water committees were formed to ensure maintenance and fair use of water.
The impact has been significant. Groundwater levels improved, wells began to recharge, agricultural production increased, and in some areas seasonal migration reduced because farming became more reliable. In a few regions, even small rivers that had dried up started flowing again due to better groundwater recharge.
Johads are deeply connected to Rajasthan’s traditions and culture. They reflect a long history of understanding the local climate and working collectively to manage scarce resources. Although modern infrastructure like borewells had replaced many traditional systems, the revival of Johads shows that these practices are still effective in dealing with current climate risks. With support from government schemes and better technical guidance, such traditional systems can be integrated into modern adaptation strategies. However, challenges such as migration, reduced community participation, and preference for quick technological solutions can make it difficult to sustain these practices. Even so, the revival of Johads remains a strong example of how local knowledge and community leadership can strengthen climate resilience.