Ponds of Promise: Unlocking Mandla’s Farm Ponds for Food and Livelihood Security

Abstract

Mandla, in central India, is a land of contrasts, riverside banks, rolling hills, and drought-prone uplands shape its unique landscape. This undulating terrain provides an ecological setting where both seasonal and perennial farm ponds are part of the village fabric. For many communities here, ponds are more than just water bodies; they represent food security, nutrition, and opportunity. Yet Mandla is also one of the more socio-economically vulnerable districts. Resource-poor tribal communities dominate the population, and poverty and malnutrition remain widespread. In such a context, farm ponds have a vital role to play in reducing vulnerability. They can serve as reliable sources of food and income if managed properly. Unfortunately, their potential is still far from being realized.