What happened: Ministerial review of WDC-PMKSY implementation and outcomes
Union Minister for Rural Development Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan reviewed the progress of Watershed Development Component (WDC-PMKSY) under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). He asked States to ensure speedy implementation of watershed projects and to deliver clear, measurable outcomes at the grassroots level.
The Minister described watershed development as an instrument to: bring water to the field,increase land productivity, andimprove farmers’ income and livelihoods, with the stated goal that every drop of water is used optimally.
Background and earlier position: WDC-PMKSY 2.0 focuses on water structures plus irrigation support
Under WDC-PMKSY 2.0, the Government reported progress in both project sanctions and on-ground works. The programme’s watershed approach includes water-harvesting and groundwater recharge structures and, where possible, protective irrigation for rainfed farms.
Government-reported land-use and productivity effects were also highlighted in the review. The Minister stated that in about 1.40 lakh hectares earlier farmers were barely able to grow one crop, but after watershed interventions farmers were taking two crops and, in some places, three crops. The Minister also cited expansion of horticulture, vegetables, and high-value crops.