Intro (Micro Notes Format):
Micro-watershed development involves managing land and water resources in small hydrological units (typically <1000 ha).
It is crucial in drought-prone and semi-arid regions for ensuring water security, enhancing soil moisture, and promoting sustainable agriculture.
Water Conservation Benefits:
- Rainwater harvesting structures (check dams, percolation tanks, contour trenches) increase groundwater recharge.
- Soil and moisture conservation through bunding, mulching, and vegetative barriers reduce runoff.
- In-situ water retention: Improves soil infiltration, enhances water availability during dry spells.
- Restoration of traditional water bodies like tanks, ponds in Deccan & Rajasthan helps in aquifer recharge.
- Watershed afforestation: Prevents erosion and enhances evapotranspiration balance.
- Watershed tanks in Telangana and Karnataka revived to store rainwater sustainably.
- Promotes multiple cropping & drought-resilient agriculture via assured irrigation.
Case Examples:
- Sukhomajri Model (Haryana): People-driven watershed project; increased groundwater and green cover.
- Ralegan Siddhi (Maharashtra): Community watershed management led to water self-sufficiency.
- Bundelkhand Initiative: NABARD-funded watershed projects to revive water sources in semi-arid zones.
Conclusion:
Micro-watershed development ensures decentralized, participatory water conservation, making drought-prone regions water-resilient and agriculturally sustainable.
