Triparty MoU signed between DRDA, ITC, and DHAN Foundation on 12 March 2021.

Farming in India is still practiced traditionally in the majority of villages. For such traditional farmers in South Bihar, Ahar and Pyne systems are an important source of irrigation.

Ahars, with an earthen bund on three sides, receives water from natural drainage or through Pynes (local name of the diversion channel), which diverts water from the river.

Ahar-pynes structures are age-old and stand as testimony of ancient wisdom. They support agriculture, livestock, fish rearing, employment generation for landless, groundwater recharge, bird sanctuary, and many more. The revival of the Ahar-Pyne system will lead to the revival of the rural economy.

In Munger, one can easily see the presence of a large number of small water bodies (read Ahar) in and around the district. However, the shortage of water in these water bodies has led to a shortage of crop production.

Siltation is the major factor affecting augmenting rainwater in the Ahars. De-siltation of the Ahar and Pyne system would help farmers to secure water for agriculture and livestock.

On 12 March 2021, Triparty MoU was signed between DRDA, ITC, and DHAN Foundation The main aim is to promote sustainable livelihood for rural poor through the restoration of Ahar and Pyne. This project was agreed upon by three stakeholders (DRDA, ITC, and DHAN) under MGNREGA over three years in 73 Gram Panchayat. The 8 members of PMC will be constituted by parties.

The proposed interventions under this project are