Launch of Watershed Yatra: A Step Towards Sustainable Development
The Union Minister of Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, has officially launched the “Watershed Yatra,” a national outreach campaign aimed at promoting community participation and raising awareness about watershed development activities. This initiative is part of the Watershed Development Component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (WDC-PMKSY 2.0). The launch event took place in a hybrid format, allowing participation both online and in-person across various states and Union Territories. Alongside Minister Chouhan, Union Ministers of State, Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani and Shri Kamlesh Paswan, also addressed the gathering. The event saw participation from approximately 800 Gram Panchayats and over one lakh individuals, highlighting the campaign’s broad reach and significance.
Importance of Soil and Water Conservation
During the launch, Minister Chouhan emphasized the critical need for soil and water conservation. He stated that these resources are vital for both current and future generations. The success of the WDC-PMKSY projects relies heavily on community involvement. He urged citizens to engage wholeheartedly in the Watershed Yatra, reinforcing the idea that collective action is essential for sustainable development. The Yatra aims to foster a “Community Driven Approach,” which will enhance the implementation of projects at the grassroots level.
Chouhan also outlined various activities planned during the Watershed Yatra, including Bhoomi Poojan for new projects, Lokarpan for completed works, and the Watershed Mahotsav. These events will serve to educate the public about sustainable resource management and its benefits for agricultural productivity and environmental health. By involving local communities, the initiative seeks to create a sense of ownership and responsibility towards natural resource management.
Introducing the Watershed – Janbhagidari Pratiyogita
In conjunction with the launch, Minister Chouhan announced the “Watershed – Janbhagidari Pratiyogita” for the years 2025 and 2026. This competition is designed to promote community-led watershed management through a model that incorporates Public-Private-People Partnership (4Ps). Projects funded by the government and supported by public participation will be evaluated at the state level. The best-performing projects will receive additional rewards of Rs. 20 lakh each, with a total budget of Rs. 70.80 crore allocated for this initiative. This competition aims to encourage healthy rivalry among communities, fostering public awareness and participation in soil and water conservation efforts.
The competition will not only expedite departmental work but also encourage the general public to contribute to the construction and maintenance of water harvesting structures. By instilling a sense of belonging and responsibility, the initiative aims to ensure that villagers continue to care for these vital resources in the future.
Engaging Youth for Sustainable Practices
The Watershed Yatra will span 60 to 90 days, covering 805 projects across 26 states and 2 Union Territories. One of the key components of the Yatra is the “Watershed ki Panchayat,” where experts will discuss sustainable soil and water management practices. Approximately 8,000 individuals who have contributed to the implementation of WDC-PMKSY works will be honored, further motivating watershed communities.
To engage the youth, the Department has developed a Learning Management System (LMS) on Watershed Development, which is accessible through the DoLR’s website and linked to the MY Bharat portal. This platform aims to mobilize youth volunteers for activities like Shramdaan, enhancing community participation in watershed projects. Participants will receive certificates, encouraging them to take part in these essential activities.
The MY Bharat portal will serve as a mega event platform for the Watershed Yatra, connecting with youth nationwide. This initiative will help create a cadre of watershed workers and leaders, ensuring that the principles of sustainable development are instilled in the younger generation. By fostering a culture of community involvement, the Watershed Yatra aims to create lasting change in the management of natural resources across India.
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