How johads bring life and prosperity to Rajasthan's arid lands

The smile on Chhoti Devi's face does not cease. The mother of eight is a picture of happiness and hope as she points to the mustard crops at Titliwala village in Alwar district, Rajasthan. Until a few years ago, she was never sure of a good harvest. The reason: there was not enough water for the crops, as the wells and the river Jahajwali, which flowed by, dried up as the year drew to a close.