Correct Option
The Integrated Watershed Development Programme (IWDP), also known as Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) since 2009-10, is implemented under the Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development. Its primary objective is to restore ecological balance by harnessing, conserving, and developing degraded natural resources such as soil, vegetative cover, and water.
Statement 1: Prevention of soil runoff.
Watershed development activities include contour trenching, bunding, terracing, and construction of check dams. These measures effectively reduce the velocity of surface runoff, thereby preventing soil erosion and preserving topsoil. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
Statement 3: Rainwater harvesting and recharge of groundwater table.
The programme promotes the construction of various water harvesting structures like percolation tanks, farm ponds, and check dams. These structures facilitate the collection of rainwater and enhance its infiltration into the ground, leading to the recharge of groundwater aquifers. Thus, statement 3 is correct.
Statement 4: Regeneration of natural vegetation.
IWDP emphasizes afforestation, reforestation, agro-forestry, and promotion of grasslands. These activities contribute to increasing the green cover, improving biodiversity, and restoring the ecological health of the watershed area. Thus, statement 4 is correct.
Incorrect Options
Statement 2: Linking the country's perennial rivers with seasonal rivers.
The objective of linking perennial rivers with seasonal rivers is associated with the National River Linking Project, a separate initiative aimed at inter-basin water transfer. This activity is not a component or benefit of the Integrated Watershed Development Programme. Therefore, statement 2 is incorrect.
Options (a), (b), and (d) include statement 2, which is not a benefit of the Integrated Watershed Development Programme. Consequently, these options are incorrect.