The ‘Pondman’ is changing India one pond at a time.

Ramveer Tanwar, popularly known as the Pondman of India, is a self-taught environmentalist who has dedicated his life to the preservation and conservation of ponds in rural India. Tanwar’s work has been instrumental in reviving and restoring over 300 ponds in villages across the country, making him a respected figure in the environmental community.

Tanwar was born in a small village in Haryana and grew up surrounded by ponds. He realized the importance of these water bodies early on in his life and decided to take up their conservation as a personal mission. He started by cleaning up a pond near his village, which had become a dumping ground for garbage and sewage. His efforts to revive the pond received widespread appreciation from the local community and inspired him to take up similar projects in other villages.

Tanwar’s work involves not just cleaning up ponds but also creating awareness about their importance and encouraging local communities to take ownership of them. He uses a unique approach to engage with people, organizing events like ‘Pond Mahotsav’ or Pond Festivals to create awareness about the importance of ponds in the ecosystem. These festivals involve cultural events, games, and competitions that bring people together and create a sense of community ownership over the ponds.

Tanwar’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, including the prestigious Rolex Award for Enterprise in 2016. His work has also been recognized by the United Nations, which has included him in its list of ‘Young Champions of the Earth.’

Tanwar’s work has had a significant impact on the environment and the lives of people in rural India. Ponds play a crucial role in providing water for agriculture, livestock, and household use in many parts of the country. They are also an important source of livelihood for fishing communities. By reviving and restoring these ponds, Tanwar has not only helped to conserve the environment but also improved the quality of life for people in these communities.

Tanwar’s work is a reminder of the power of individual action and the importance of community involvement in environmental conservation. His dedication and commitment to the cause have inspired many others to take up similar initiatives and work towards a better future for the planet. 

“Tanwar is an inspiration to all those who are concerned about the environment. His work has not only helped to conserve precious water bodies but also improved the quality of life for people in these communities.” – Dr. Rajendra Singh, Founder, Tarun Bharat Sangh