Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is an Indiansocial movement consisting of native tribals (adivasis), farmers, environmentalists andhuman rights activists against the number of large dams being built across the river Narmada, which flows through the states ofGujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.Sardar Sarovar Dam in Gujarat is one of the biggest dams on the river and was one of the first focal points of the movement. It is one of the many dams under the Narmada Dam Project whose main aim is to provide irrigation and electricity to people in these states.

Narmada Bachao Andolan and Sardar Sarovar Dam

The Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA) is a social movement that was launched in India in the 1980s to protest the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the Narmada River. The dam was part of a larger project called the Narmada Valley Development Project, which aimed to provide irrigation, hydroelectric power, and drinking water to millions of people in four Indian states.

Reasons for Launching NBA

The NBA was launched to oppose the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and other dams in the Narmada Valley for several reasons, including:

1. Environmental Concerns: The construction of the dams would lead to the displacement of thousands of people and the submergence of large areas of forest and agricultural land, which would have a severe impact on the environment and ecology of the region.

2. Social Injustice: The people who would be displaced by the dams were mostly poor and marginalized communities, including tribal people and farmers, who were not adequately compensated or rehabilitated.

3. Violation of Human Rights: The construction of the dams would violate the human rights of the people who would be displaced, including their right to life, livelihood, and cultural identity.

Impact of NBA

The NBA has had a significant impact on the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and other dams in the Narmada Valley. The movement has forced the government to address the concerns of the people who would be displaced by the dams and has led to several court cases and government inquiries into the project.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Narmada Bachao Andolan was launched to protest the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam and other dams in the Narmada Valley, citing concerns related to the environment, social justice, and human rights. The movement has had a significant impact on the project, forcing the government to address the concerns of the people who would be displaced and leading to several court cases and government inquiries.