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This article documents successful case studies of encroachment eviction and restoration of water commons across Tamil Nadu, demonstrating the critical importance of community-led water governance in addressing the complex challenges facing traditional water bodies. The six case studies, spanning both rural and urban contexts, reveal how irrigation tanks, ooranis (drinking water ponds), and their associated channel systems have been systematically degraded through encroachment, yet can be effectively restored through strategic community mobilization, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and innovative technical solutions. Read More

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The District Level Seminar on Family Farming through Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) held on 26.11.2025 in Pambar Region, Sivagangai district, emphasized five key points: (1) strengthening family farming in rainfed areas through Integrated Farming Systems that combine crops, livestock, fisheries, poultry, and other allied activities to enhance income and reduce risk; (2) reinforcing the role of Vayalagams and Federations in promoting sustainable practices such as soil testing, organic farming, technological training, and credit facilitation; (3) revitalizing traditional farming practices by reducing chemical dependency and linking farmers with government schemes, training programmes, and subsidies; (4) improving farmers’ access to regulated market facilities, storage, and credit support to secure better prices and financial stability; and (5) fostering knowledge sharing, collective action, and marketing structures without middlemen to ensure long-term sustainability and improved livelihoods for farming families.Read More

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Water commons are lifelines for rural livelihoods. Tanks and ponds not only support agriculture but also sustain ecosystems and community wellbeing. However, many of these commons suffer from neglect, fragmented ownership, and unsustainable interventions. External investments alone cannot ensure long-term impact unless communities themselves become custodians of these resources.Recognizing this, DHAN Foundation promotes People’s Institutions called Vayalagams at village or tank level to ensure collective ownership, sustainable management, and equitable water sharing. These institutions integrate technical, financial, and social interventions to protect water resources for present and future generations.

This case study narrates how the Illani Kanmoi Vayalagam revived Illani Tank in Ponnamaravathi Block and how a small farmer, Mr. M. Velmurugan, moved out of poverty and rebuilt his livelihood through collective action and water security. Read More

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DHAN People Academy (DPA) have successfully completed 43rd batch of Vayalagam Movement Workers Training. 28 Field Level Associates from the various Federations of Pambar, Gundar and Vaipar regions participated in 42 Days Movement Workers Training from 25th September to 31st December, 2026. Read More

26 participants from Pazhayanoor block of Thirussur District, Kerla participated in the Water Immersion Programme from 26th to 27th November, 2026 with a field visit to Madurai CURE, Gangai Vattaram and Ponnamaravathi Vattara Vayalagam.Read More

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Mr. Durairaj was born into an agricultural family in Nalladurai Village, Narikudi Block, Virudhunagar District, Tamil Nadu. His father worked as a village assistant, informally known in those days as a “Thalaiyari.” He had one sister. From his early schooling, he was good in academics, but his family situation affected his childhood. Due to family conflicts, his parents were separated by the village council, and as per tradition, the assets were divided among the children. Read More

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Inland fisheries in India have emerged as a strong livelihood option for small and marginal farmers, contributing significantly to income, nutrition, and water productivity. Recognising this potential, DHAN Foundation with the financial support of ITC CSR implemented farm pond interventions in Viralimalai Block, Pudukkottai District, between 2018 and 2025. A total of 546 farm ponds were constructed, of which 346 farmers adopted fish rearing and 156 continued it as a secondary livelihood. To assess sustainability, a detailed study was conducted among 103 farmers across 18 panchayats and 53 villages. Read More

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1. Moved out of Encroachment, 2025 - Moved out of Encroachment compendium was launched during DHAN’s Foundation Day on October 2, 2025.
2. Policy Document – “Localising SDGs – Vayalagam Way”
3. Fisheries Case Studies Booklet
4. Research Brief – “Sustainability Analysis of Fish Rearing in Farm Ponds”
5. DHAN Vayalagam (Tank) Programme Policy Document on Inland Fisheries

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A three-day photography camp was conducted to document the biodiversity of Adavi Urban Grove. The event saw the participation of 35 photography enthusiasts, who captured images of birds, insects, and plants over the first two days. On the third day, the photographers were divided into five groups and visited Andhaneri Kanmoi, Vandiyur Kanmoi, Surakulam Kanmoi, Nila Oorani, and Mangalakudi Kanmoi to continue their photography. Each participant selected their 10 best photographs from the two-day Adavi photoshoot, which were exhibited on the third day at DHAN People Academy, Madurai, and viewed by more than 67 people. Certificates were awarded based on both public choice and jury selection. Mr Rajavignesh received the Spirit of the Grove award, while Mr Veeresh, Mr Bharat Kesav, and Mr Grishwin were recognized for Excellence in Photography. Read More

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This workshop brought together key stakeholders from government departments, academic institutions, NGOs, and community representatives to collectively deliberate on strengthening inland freshwater fisheries in Tamil Nadu. The workshop served as a collaborative platform to share field experiences, success stories, scientific advancements, and policy needs for developing fisheries in tanks, ponds, and farm ponds. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, farmer-centric policy support, scientific fish farming practices, and strong community institutions to enhance rural livelihoods and food security. The participants collectively affirmed their commitment to advancing freshwater fisheries through coordinated action, resource mobilisation, policy advocacy, and continuous capacity building. Read More

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