Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Integrated Watershed Management (IWM) is a holistic approach to managing land and water resources within a watershed, aiming for sustainable development and environmental conservation. Traditionally, watershed management focused on isolated problems like soil erosion. However, the increasing complexities of environmental degradation and climate change necessitate a more integrated approach. India's National Mission for Green India (GMIP) and the Watershed Development Programme (WDP) demonstrate the government's commitment to IWM. Addressing the impacts of climate change on water resources is critical for ensuring food security, livelihoods, and overall ecological stability.
Principles of Integrated Watershed Management
IWM operates on several key principles:
- Watershed as a Unit: Management focuses on the entire watershed boundary, irrespective of administrative boundaries.
- Participatory Approach: Involving local communities in planning, implementation, and maintenance. This ensures ownership and sustainability.
- Holistic Approach: Addressing all aspects of the watershed, including land, water, forests, and socio-economic factors.
- Soil and Water Conservation: Implementing measures like contour bunding, terracing, and gully plugs.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Promoting practices like crop rotation, organic farming, and water-efficient irrigation.
- Forestry and Afforestation: Restoring degraded forests and planting trees to improve water infiltration and reduce erosion.
- Livelihood Enhancement: Creating alternative livelihood opportunities for local communities, reducing dependence on unsustainable practices.
Relevance of IWM under Climate Change
Climate change significantly impacts watersheds through increased variability in rainfall, rising temperatures, and more frequent extreme events (floods and droughts). IWM offers a crucial framework for adaptation and mitigation:
- Enhanced Water Storage: IWM techniques like rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge increase water storage capacity, buffering against droughts.
- Flood Mitigation: Vegetation cover and soil conservation measures reduce runoff and mitigate flood risks.
- Drought Resilience: Water-efficient agriculture and drought-resistant crops enhance resilience to prolonged dry periods.
- Soil Health Improvement: Organic farming and conservation tillage improve soil health, making it more resilient to climate extremes.
- Ecosystem Restoration: Restoring degraded ecosystems improves carbon sequestration and biodiversity, contributing to climate change mitigation.
The Watershed Development Programme (WDP) under the MGNREGA scheme exemplifies IWM principles, focusing on water conservation and livelihood generation. The scheme’s focus on community participation is vital for its long-term success.
Traditional vs. Integrated Watershed Management
| Feature | Traditional Watershed Management | Integrated Watershed Management |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Fragmented, problem-specific | Holistic, watershed-based |
| Community Participation | Limited | High |
| Focus | Soil erosion control | Water conservation, livelihood, environment |
| Sustainability | Often unsustainable | More sustainable |
The 2019 Economic Survey highlighted the importance of IWM in addressing water stress and promoting rural development, emphasizing the need for improved coordination and monitoring of watershed projects.
Conclusion
Integrated Watershed Management is not merely a technique but a philosophy that recognizes the interconnectedness of land, water, and communities. In a climate-changed world, its relevance is amplified, requiring greater investment, improved coordination, and enhanced community participation. Moving forward, a focus on climate-resilient IWM strategies and continuous monitoring and evaluation is essential to ensure sustainable resource management and build a more secure future for rural India. Prioritizing nature-based solutions within IWM frameworks will be key to achieving long-term ecological and economic benefits.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.