It is not everyday that approximately 30,000 people from far-flung corners of India, as well as representatives from nearby countries like Nepal and Thailand, gather to discuss a not so juicy issue like people's water policy. That is precisely what happened at Kasravad (Madhya Pradesh*) on the banks of the Narmada river on December 21, 1996. People gathered to resolve to fight against large dam-centered water policy of the country. Veteran social worker Baba Amte was one of the prominent people at the massive rally, which was called by the Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA).

The rally was followed by a two- day consultation on