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Clean Water for Dalit Villages: A Khalsa-Inspired Aid Project in Andhra Pradesh
In the rugged landscapes of Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, three remote Dalit-majority villages faced a crisis that many take for granted—access to clean drinking water. Families relied on distant, unsafe sources like open ponds and canals. Women and children bore the brunt of the burden, walking several kilometers each day to fetch water under the scorching sun, losing valuable time meant for learning or earning.
The consequences were dire. Waterborne illnesses spread easily. School attendance dropped. Economic progress stalled. These were not just water issues—they were barriers to dignity, education, and opportunity.
In 2024, SAF International, a Sikh charity, guided by the principle of Sarbat da Bhala and Bhai Kanhaiya-inspired seva, partnered with local India based NGO SPREAWS to bring life-changing relief to the villages of Godlaveedu Harijanawada, Kakkaiah Mattam, and Narsireddypalli in the district of Kadapa in Andhra Pradesh.
“This wasn’t just another aid project—it was a living expression of Khalsa seva. Inspired by the legacy of Bhai Kanhaiya Ji, who offered water to all without discrimination of religion, caste, or creed, this initiative served the most marginalized with humility, compassion, and love. Just as Bhai Kanhaiya Ji saw no enemy in a wounded soldier, we saw only the shared humanity of those in need. Guided by the spirit of Sikhi, our efforts in Kadapa honored the timeless Sikh principle of serving all equally—restoring dignity through access to clean water.”
Shamandeep Singh, CEO, SAF International
This project was thoughtfully designed to ensure long-term success. It began with professional hydro-geological surveys to identify the most promising groundwater sources. Borewells were then drilled to depths of 425–475 feet, with PVC casings to support loose soil conditions. To ensure daily hygiene and water safety, platforms were built using concrete and bricks, and proper drainage channels were added to avoid waterlogging and contamination.
Just this act of the Khalsa Panth: 3 borewells now serve 2,175 people, including 750 children.
To maintain the system, Water User Committees (WUCs) were formed in each village—comprising both men and women—responsible for upkeep, repairs, and community decision-making. In parallel, SPREAWS health workers ran hygiene awareness campaigns, going door-to-door to teach handwashing and safe water usage.
On November 10, 2024, the communities gathered in celebration to inaugurate the new borewells. Local leaders, volunteers, and SAF team members stood side by side with smiling villagers—witnessing the joy that clean water had brought.
Lasting Impact
🏠 425+ families now walk only 300 meters for water (down from 4 km)
💧 Drastic drop in waterborne diseases
🎒 750+ children attend school regularly
👩👧 Women saved 4–5 hours daily—now used for learning, earning, and care
💼 Families report increased household income
This is Khalsa-inspired development in action—not just meeting basic needs, but restoring hope and empowering people to shape their futures.
Kadapa Community is just one story among millions. There are still 35 million people across India without access to safe drinking water. But together, through compassionate aid and purposeful seva, we can change that – join the Khalsa Panth in serving the marginalized communities.
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