Theme 6-8-Participatory watershed management - A lesson through experience.

Abstract

The paper reviews the success factors behind the different watershed management programmes carried by the N.G.O.s in different parts of the country. The paper has been divided into three part, the first part deals with the introduction of the watershed programmes, the involvement of those who have stake in it, and how that involvement can be ensured at the different levels. The second part deals with the case studies of different watershed management programmes undertaken by the NGOs in different parts of the country and delineates the key success factors and lessons. The third part of the paper brings out the conclusion based on the experiences and lessons. It brings out the fact that development is not the sole responsibility of the policy makers, it can be only achieved through participation of localites who are much concerned about the problems. Watershed management is a holistic and bottom up approach. It is not only concerned with the natural resource management, but also with the social problems of the area. The approach stresses on a proper institutional set up, which results in a sustainable pattern of development by promoting proper management of resources, coping with drought and by development of a healthy society.