Patna: A small village panchayat in Bihar’s Sitamarhi district has emerged as a national example of grassroots climate action after securing third place in the National Panchayat Awards 2026 under the Special Panchayat Award for Climate Action category.
Mahuawa Gram Panchayat will receive the national honour for its large-scale environmental initiatives, with Panchayat head Sanjeev Bhushan set to be recognised at the national level.
The panchayat drew attention after planting nearly 9,000 saplings in a single day on World Environment Day. Local authorities said the campaign has transformed the area into a greener and cleaner zone, with barbed-wire fencing installed to protect the newly planted trees.
In another community-led initiative, the panchayat made it mandatory for families to plant a fruit-bearing sapling whenever a girl child is born. Around 250 saplings have been planted under the scheme so far. Officials estimate that the panchayat now has more than 100,000 trees, including fruit-bearing and medicinal varieties.
Biogas Push Cuts Household Expenses
Alongside afforestation efforts, the panchayat has also focused on renewable energy and sustainable living practices. Families owning around five cattle have been encouraged to adopt biogas systems to reduce dependence on conventional fuel.
Out of 50 identified households, 12 biogas plants have already been completed. According to panchayat officials, each participating family is saving nearly Rs 2,000 every month on fuel expenses.
Water Conservation and Solar Energy Initiatives
The panchayat has also developed 10 large ponds, ranging between 35 and 60 katthas, for fish farming and rainwater harvesting. Local rivers have been rejuvenated to strengthen groundwater recharge and improve water availability in the region.
Solar panels have been installed in schools across the panchayat, while a mobile application is being used to monitor government activities, including the Mid-Day Meal scheme.
