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Question

Elaborate the impact of National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production from water-stressed areas.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2019 (Prelims) CSAT Previous Year Paper (02-Jun-2019)

The National Watershed Project, now a component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY-WDC), has had a profound impact on increasing agricultural production in water-stressed, rainfed areas.

Its core strategy is integrated watershed management, focusing on soil and moisture conservation. Through structures like check-dams, percolation tanks, and farm ponds, the project enhances rainwater harvesting and promotes groundwater recharge. This directly increases water availability for irrigation, extending the cropping season and enabling farmers to cultivate a second crop.

The project also curtails soil erosion by promoting afforestation and contour bunding, which improves soil fertility and moisture retention capacity. This leads to higher crop yields and greater resilience against droughts. By improving the natural resource base, the watershed project has successfully transformed barren lands into productive agricultural fields, diversifying farm incomes and strengthening livelihoods in India’s most vulnerable regions.

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

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