The present paper discusses the miraculous role of local communities in the restorative development by managing the natural resource of water through traditional wisdom. This ethnographic study focuses on the Thar Desert region of India which is an arid zone that faces extreme water scarcity. In addition to the desert ecosystem, the phenomenon of climate change and ever increasing process of climate-change-induced desertification present great challenges to the development of the region. The study identifies that the prevailing development models in the global south are largely moulded by the neo-liberal framework which turns to market dynamics and profit considerations. Additionally, the western paradigms of water stress management are suggested as possible solutions to the problems of the global south though the problems are significantly dissimilar. These paradigms would look inadequate to offer any satisfactory solution to problems of specific communities of the global south that are ontologically isolated, hierarchically structured, and caste governed. Turning to successful models of water conservation and governance, and efficacious instances of human made ecosystems development in the Thar region, we propose alternative strategies for a better and sustainable development and inclusive growth. The study examines historical legacies of water governance, unique methods of water recharging, sharing of burdens, participatory decision making process, and ways to resist the phenomenon of desertification. Additionally, the study evaluates the correlation between natural resource management, specifically the resource of water, and prospects of progress of the region. In situations of extreme water stress, survival and progress would become difficult and any small water conservation attempt can make a difference. Among other things, the paper vindicates the urgency of formulating better inclusive strategies, identifies the crucial role of women in water management initiatives, defends the urgency to turn to the traditional wisdom of water management.
