UPSC Mains 2019 GS3 Q4 — Agriculture (Watershed)
Elaborate the impact of National Watershed Project in increasing agricultural production from water-stressed areas. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Elaborate
- Scope keywords
- National Watershed Projectimpactincreasing agricultural productionwater-stressed areas
- Implicit sub-parts
- Mechanism of the National Watershed Project (Neeranchal/PMKSY-WDC) in resource conservation.
- Direct link between water harvesting and increased cropping intensity/productivity.
- Socio-economic impact on farmers in rainfed regions beyond just crop yield.
- Sustainability of these impacts in the face of climate change.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words defining watershed management instead of focusing on the 'impact'.
- Failing to mention specific regions or success stories (e.g., Ralegan Siddhi or Hivre Bazar) as evidence.
- Neglecting the 'water-stressed areas' context by giving generic agricultural benefits applicable to irrigated plains.
- Ignoring the institutional aspect like the role of Watershed Committees or Self Help Groups.
- Dimensions required
- Hydrological/TechnicalAgronomic/ProductivitySocio-EconomicEcological/Environmental
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 30 words for a crisp definition and the project's objective. Devote 80 words to the core impact on production (cropping intensity, diversification, groundwater recharge). Spend the final 40 words on the institutional/social benefits and a brief concluding outlook on climate resilience.
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