Model Answer

Introduction

Watershed management refers to the strategic management of land and water resources within a watershed to protect and enhance their quality and sustainability. Integrated resource management (IRM) takes a holistic approach by considering the interdependencies between various natural resources. Watershed management plays a crucial role in supporting integrated resource management by balancing and optimizing the use of land, water, and other resources in a coordinated way.

Role of Watershed Management in Integrated Resource Management:

1. Efficient Utilization of Resources:
   Watershed management ensures that all resources within the watershed are used effectively. By understanding the interconnections between water, soil, vegetation, and wildlife, watershed management enables decisions that promote the sustainable use of resources.
   Example: Integrated practices like water-efficient irrigation and crop diversification increase agricultural productivity and optimize water usage in areas with limited water resources.
2. Balancing Ecosystem Needs:
   Watershed management takes into account the entire ecosystem, recognizing that activities in one area of the watershed can affect other areas. This approach helps to balance the needs of different stakeholders, such as farmers, industries, and communities, while protecting the ecosystem.
   Example: Riparian zone protection helps reduce soil erosion, stabilize riverbanks, and improve water quality, benefiting both natural ecosystems and human populations.
3. Involving Stakeholders:
   An essential aspect of watershed management is the involvement of all affected parties. By collaborating, stakeholders can jointly make decisions that benefit the entire watershed, ensuring that resource use is equitable and sustainable.
   Example: Community-based programs like Arvary Pani Sansad in Rajasthan encourage local participation in water management, fostering better cooperation and resource sharing.
4. Identifying and Regulating Hazardous Activities:
   Watershed management identifies ecologically harmful activities and works to mitigate their impacts. This includes regulating agricultural practices that contribute to water pollution or soil degradation.
   Example: The IWMP in India promotes soil conservation measures such as terracing and contour ploughing to prevent soil erosion, improving both land productivity and water quality.

Conclusion

Watershed management ensures the integrated management of natural resources by considering their interconnectedness. It promotes sustainability, balances competing needs, and helps achieve inclusive growth. Successful programs like the Neeru-Meeru initiative in Andhra Pradesh highlight the potential of watershed management to drive positive outcomes in resource conservation and rural development.