What are the benefits of implementing the ‘Integrated Watershed Development Programme’?

1. Prevention of soil runoff
2. Linking the country’s perennial rivers with seasonal rivers
3. Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table
4. Regeneration of natural vegetation

Select the correct answer using the code given below.

[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2014 Prelims]

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2, 3 and 4 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (c)

Explanation:

• The Department of Land Resources under the Ministry of Rural Development is responsible for implementing the Integrated Watershed Management Programme.
• This initiative integrates three developmental programs, namely, the Desert Development Programme (DDP), the Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP), and the Integrated Wastelands Development Programme, to improve the degraded and rainfed land in the country.
• The Integrated Watershed Management Programme aims to conserve and develop degraded natural resources such as soil, water, and vegetation, prevent soil erosion, harvest rainwater, increase crop productivity, promote sustainable livelihoods, and boost household incomes.
• However, it does not include the linking of perennial rivers with seasonal rivers.

Therefore, option (c) is the correct answer.