“The Central and State Governments have initiated many watershed development and management programmes in the country.” Justify the statement.

Question -“The Central and State Governments have initiated many watershed development and management programmes in the country.” Justify the statement.

The correct answer is -The statement that the Central and State Governments have initiated many watershed development and management programs in the country is true. India is a country with a predominantly agriculture-based economy and faces several challenges related to water scarcity, soil erosion, and declining agricultural productivity. To address these challenges, the government has launched various programs and schemes aimed at sustainable development and management of watersheds.

Here are some justifications for the statement:

1. National Watershed Development Project for Rainfed Areas (NWDPRA): The NWDPRA was launched in 1990 by the Ministry of Agriculture to address the issues of soil erosion, declining agricultural productivity, and water scarcity in rainfed areas of the country. The program aims to promote conservation and sustainable use of natural resources through watershed development and management.

2. Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP): The IWMP was launched in 2009 by the Ministry of Rural Development to promote sustainable development of rainfed areas by integrating various developmental activities such as agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and livestock management. The program aims to improve the productivity of land and water resources and promote sustainable livelihoods.

3. National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG): The NMCG was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Water Resources to clean and rejuvenate the river Ganga and its tributaries. The program aims to promote sustainable development of the river basin and address the issues of water pollution, soil erosion, and declining aquatic biodiversity.

4. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA): The MGNREGA was launched in 2005 by the Ministry of Rural Development to provide employment opportunities to rural households and promote sustainable development of natural resources. The program aims to promote sustainable use of water resources through activities such as construction of check dams, farm ponds, and other water conservation structures.

Overall, the government’s initiatives towards watershed development and management aim to promote sustainable use of natural resources, improve agricultural productivity, and promote sustainable livelihoods. These programs are crucial in addressing the challenges of water scarcity, soil erosion, and declining agricultural productivity in the country.