Management Of Land And Water Resources (1)

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Resources/”>Management of land and Water Resources

LAND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA

  • Land and water have been the basic Elements of life support system on our planet since the dawn of civilization. All great civilizations, flourished where these resources were available in plenty and they declined or perished with the depletion of these resources.
  • In recent years, the land resource has been subjected to a variety of pressures. Still it is surviving and sustaining mankind. What is alarming in the way land is being used is the tendency towards over-exploitation on account of a number of reasons leading this pristine resource being robbed of its resilience.
  • Of all the species on the earth, man is the chief culprit of this degradation. He views land in terms of its utility, meaning the capability to meet his perceived needs and wants. The most easily categorised varieties of land from the utility point of view are – land fit for use, land with potential for use and land which appears useless at least in the foreseeable future.
  • Here probably lies the genesis of the problem of land degradation and erosion of Ecosystems. Mahatma Gandhi had said -“The Earth has enough for everybody’s need but not for everybody’s greed”. Preserving, protecting and defending the land resources has been part of our age-old culture.
  • The respect for the importance of land resources is best depicted in the conventional concept of Panchabhutas – land, water, fire, sky and air that constitute a set of divine forces.
  • There are innumerable examples of the traditional conservation practices and systems, which are still surviving and are effective. But with the advent of modern age and the advent of newer forces, this tradition is fast deteriorating mainly on account of – consumerism, materialistic value systems, short-term profit-driven Motives and greed of the users.
  • As a result, land has degraded, Soil-fertility/”>Soil fertility depleted, the rivers polluted and the forests destroyed.

The Indian Scenario

  • India constitutes 18 per cent of the world’s Population, 15 per cent of the live stock population and only 2 per cent of the geographic area, one per cent of the forest area and 0.5 per cent of pasture lands.
  • The per capita availability of forests in India is only 0.08 per ha. as against the world Average of 0.8 per cent , thus leading to the pressure on land and forests. This poses a major and urgent concern.
  • In accordance with the National Remote Sensing Agency’s (NRSA) findings there are 75.5 million ha. of wastelands in the country. In has been estimated that out of these around 58 million ha. are treatable and can be brought back to original productive levels through appropriate measures.
  • At the moment, taking into account the efforts being made by all the various players in this field treating facilities are in place only for around 1 million ha. per year.
  • At this rate, that there is no further degradation and also assuming that our efforts are 100 per cent successful, it will take around 58 years to complete the process.
  • Watershed degradation in the third world countries threatens the livelihood of millions of people and constraints the ability of countries to develop a healthy agricultural and natural resource base.
  • Increasing population and Livestock are rapidly depleting the existing natural resource base because the soil and vegetation system cannot support present level of use.
  • As population continues to rise, the pressure on forests, community lands and marginal agricultural lands lead to inappropriate cultivation practices, forests removal and grazing intensities that leave a barren Environment yielding unwanted sediment and damaging stream flow to down stream communities.
  • Watershed is a geo-hydrological unit which drains at a common point. Rains falling on the mountain start flowing down into small rivulets. Many of them, as they come down, join to form small streams.
  • The small streams form bigger streams and then finally the bigger streams join to form a nallah to drain out of a village. The entire area that supplies water to a stream or river, i.e. the drainage basin or catchment area, is called the watershed of that particular stream or river.

 

  • Management of watershed thus entails the rational utilisation of land and water resources for optimum production but with minimum hazard to natural and human resources.
  • The main objectives of Watershed Management are to protect the Natural Resources such as soil, water and vegetation from degradation.
  • In the broader sense, it is an undertaking to maintain the equilibrium between elements of natural ecosystem of vegetation, land or water on the one hand and man’s activities on the other hand.
  • When all possible inputs are obtaining, the man in the watershed still remains the most important component of the entire watershed system. The key issue is how far the people can be motivated, involved and organised to drive the movement. No significant improvement can be expected without the people being brought to centre-stage.

A wide range of approaches have been employed to address problems of land degradation, some of which include:

  1. Prevention of soil loss from the catchments
  2. Promotion of multi-disciplinary integrated approach to catchment treatment.
  3. Improvement of land capability and moisture regime in the watersheds.
  4. Promotion of land use to match land capability
  5. Reduction of run-off from the catchments to reduce peak flow into the river system.
  6. Upgrading of skills in the planning and execution of watershed development programme.
  7. Increase of productivity of land affected by alkalinity for increasing sustainable agriculture production.
  8. Identification of critical degraded areas,
  9. Generation of data on land suitability and capability for regulating land use.
  10. Preparation of soil resource map and inventory of soil and land resources.
  11. Development of technical skills in soil and water conservation
  12. Building up and strengthening of land capability of State Land Use Boards.

Role of Ministry of Rural Development

  • The Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, has recently created a Department of Land Resources to act as a nodal department in the field of watershed management and development.
  • This has the mandate of developing the valuable land resources of India, which are presently under various stages of degradation and it also endeavors to prevent further degradation of these resources through appropriate management and necessary measures.
  • The Department of Land Resources, being the nodal department has taken up certain new initiatives to play a more pro-active role in the Land Resource management in the country.
  • At the conceptual level it has been realised that the management rather than the mere use of land is the central theme. There is no dearth of land, the real issue is management which should include: dynamic conservation, Sustainable Development and equitable access to the benefits of intervention.
  • The Concept of Sustainable Development focuses on help for the very poor because they are left with no option but to destroy their own environment.
  • It also includes the idea of cost-effective development using differing economic criteria to the traditional approach; that is to say development should not degrade environment quality, or reduce productivity in the long run.
  • The greater issues of Health control, appropriate technologies, food self-reliance, clean water and shelter for all are to be addressed.
  • Sustainable development should seek to maintain an acceptable rate of Growth in per capita real incomes without depleting the national capital asset stock or the natural environmental asset stock.
  • Equitable access to the benefits of development could be achieved either through Land reforms or a dedicated and institutionalised mode of people’s participation. Here, besides the Government, other players like the corporate sector, NGOs, various institutions and self-help groups can be involved.

Water Resource Management

  • In India the average annual Precipitation is nearly 4000 cubic km (km3) and the average flow in the river systems is estimated to be 1869 km3.
  • Because of concentration of rains only in the 3 Monsoon months, the utilizable quantum of water is about 690 km3.
  • Quantum of ground water extracted annually is-about 432 km3.
  • Thus, on an average, 1122 km3 water is available for exploitation and is considered adequate to meet all the needs. However, the situation is complicated because this water is not uniformly available either spatially or temporally.
  • Six of the 20 major river basins in India suffer from water scarcity. Water has already become one of the most limiting resources in the country.
  • These shortages have exacerbated with rising demand for particularly Irrigation. Contributing to the scenario is inefficient water management and use.
  • The efficiency of surface water irrigation is estimated as low as 40 percent and although overall groundwater exploitation is only about 50 percent, resource-threatening exploitation levels have been reached in several locations. Subsidies for Canal Irrigation and power have encouraged inefficient resource use.
  • Water quality issues compound the problem. Deep borewells and handpumps, expected to address quality problems associated with traditional sources such as open wells, have become problematic themselves. Arsenic, fluoride, sodium and nitrate contamination have been evidenced with groundwater extraction from deep aquifers.
  • Technologies for addressing these have been developed, but their applicability and cost in rural environments remain an issue.
  • Analyses of current problems point to inadequacies in the overall policy, legal and institutional framework. In India, the entire approach to water resources in the post-Independence period was geared towards resource exploitation through capital investments rather than equitable and sustainable water management.
  • It is within this questionable approach that many of today’s concerns are rooted. The deterioration of traditional water harvesting structures has been one major impact of this flawed approach.
  • The legal position, where water rights are aligned with land rights, offers little opportunity to correct the situation.
  • Landowners ‘mine’ water resources without any statutory control. Regulation of water has been a politically sensitive issue and a Model Groundwater Bill has been pending action for over a decade.
  • At another level, the legal framework has proved rather weak in addressing interstate water disputes.

Water Resources Management in Larger Aspects

  • India faces serious temporal and spatial water shortages that are worsened by rising demand, declining quality and poor water management and resource-use efficiency.
  • The present situation has been traced to a variety of reasons, of which the most crucial are:
  1.  Traditional policy and institutional focus on resource utilisation rather than management, and
  2. Lack of regulation (including self-regulation) on inefficient water use.
  • Government agencies, often uncoordinated, unsystematic and trapped in resource utilisation modes, have been largely unsuccessful in addressing the situation.
  • The success of NGO and donor-driven watershed or water conservation interventions with community-centred processes offers some promise, but larger issues relating to sustainability and scale cast a shadow.
  • While water conservation initiatives appeared to gain centrestage during the latter half of the nineties, the role of millions of farmers who actually manage groundwater resources has been limited even in these initiatives due to low levels of resource Literacy on causes, consequences or choices.
  • In this context, there emerges a case for building upon the momentum generated by watershed and water conservation interventions through locally developed and agreed mechanisms for sustainable and equitable water use.
  • Water management at the local level offers opportunities for community involvement in analysing, planning, negotiating and managing the resource.
  • This can correct the unsustainable and iniquitous use patterns arising from the earlier focus on resource utilisation and development.
  • Most villages suffering water shortages are found in the upper parts of river basins. In these areas, small water harvesting structures are considered the most appropriate and viable.
  • These can potentially offer benefits of
  1. water availability during the end of the monsoons to protect against crop failure;
  2. groundwater recharge for improved drinking water availability during summer;
  3. protective irrigation for Rabi Crops.
  • Such local management systems have existed in several parts of the country but have been rendered ineffective over time by the dominant ‘resource exploitation’ mode of working.
  • At the local level, their resurrection (though challenging), offers opportunity to demonstrate innovative approaches, engage with Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and other related community institutions with fewer institutional complexities and resource demands

Key Issues /Conclusion

On the overall situation of water resources, the key issues can be summarised as:

  • The existing legal, policy and administrative frameworks do not operate in coherence with resource boundaries (basin, watershed) and IWRM would require changes in these to enable a resource-oriented approach.
  • Due to temporal variations in water resource availability, groundwater regulation assumes critical significance. Existing legal and administrative mechanisms for such regulation are inadequate.
  • The subsidisation of irrigation and electricity supply has impacted water resources adversely for such subsidisation offers no economic incentive for users to ensure end-use efficiency.
  • Watershed development programmes (during the eighties and nineties) have attempted to enable participatory planning and management of local water and land resources. However, experiences from these programs suggest that water conservation and management programmes need to pay more attention to:
  • Developing, negotiating and agreeing on equitable, sustainable water management and use practices at the village level.
  • Increase primary and secondary stakeholder capacities for water resource management and appreciate issues impacting participation, transparency, Equity and sustainability levels.
  • Enhance inclusive village level planning processes based on systematic assessment of resource availability and demand.

Programmes and Projects For Water Resource Management

  • With domestic and external assistance, there are a number of important ongoing National programmes and projects supporting the implementation of recommendations of Agenda 21 in India.
  • Generally, the projects in the water resources sector are being implemented under categories of major, medium, and minor (surface water and also ground water) projects and schemes, flood control projects, and Command Area Development Programmes. Some of these initiatives include:
  1. guidelines for sustainable water resources development and management have been formulated;
  2. a hydrology project with World Bank assistance is under implementation for the systematic collection and analysis of data;
  3. Master Plans for river basins to optimize use and inter-basin transfers are under preparation;
  4. flood and drought management, and environmental and social impact assessments are an integral part of project formulation, implementation, and monitoring in various States and are continuous processes of all plans;
  5. documents on non-structural aspects of flood management in India have been prepared (a draft bill on the flood plan zone has been prepared and a National Flood Atlas is under preparation);
  6. Human resource development is being implemented through water and land management institutes, and other organizations and agencies;
  7. Water Resources Day is being observed every year as part of a mass awareness programme;
  8. research and development programmes on different subjects in the water resources sector are being undertaken through Indian National Committees by universities, research institutes, and other organizations;
  9. pilot projects on recycling and reuse of waste water and artificial recharge of ground water are under implementation;
  10. guidelines on the conjunctive use of surface water and ground waters have been prepared and are under implementation;
  11. Command Area Development Programmes have been implemented since 1974;
  12. Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) through Water Users’ Associations and Women‘s participation is being actively encouraged and implemented;
  13. a Network of hydrological stations, hydrometric observation stations, and ground water measurement stations collect data, including water quality data, through organizations under the Central and State Governments on a continuous basis (water resource data are collected and transmitted through the network of the National Informatics Centre); and
  14. standardization is being carried out continuously through the Bureau of Indian Standards which participates in the International Standards Organization

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Land and water resources are essential for human life and Economic Development. They provide us with food, water, shelter, and energy. However, these resources are also under increasing pressure from Population Growth, Climate change, and pollution.

Land use planning is the process of determining how land should be used. It involves identifying the best uses for different types of land and then developing plans to implement those uses. Land use planning can help to protect natural resources, conserve water, and reduce pollution.

Water resources management is the process of managing water supplies and uses. It involves developing policies and plans to ensure that water is available for all uses, including drinking water, irrigation, Industry, and recreation. Water resources management can also help to protect water quality and prevent flooding.

Soil conservation is the practice of protecting soil from erosion, degradation, and contamination. It involves using a variety of methods, such as terracing, cover Cropping, and no-till farming. Soil conservation helps to ensure that we have enough fertile land to grow food.

Irrigation is the process of applying water to land to assist in the growth of crops. It is used in areas where rainfall is insufficient or unreliable. Irrigation can help to increase crop yields and improve crop quality. However, it can also lead to water shortages, soil erosion, and Salinization.

Drainage is the process of removing excess water from land. It is used to prevent flooding, improve soil drainage, and reduce the risk of waterborne diseases. Drainage can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as ditches, canals, and pumps.

Flood control is the process of preventing or reducing the damage caused by floods. It involves a variety of measures, such as building levees, Dams, and reservoirs. Flood control can help to protect lives and property. However, it can also have negative environmental impacts, such as disrupting fish and wildlife habitats.

Watershed management is the process of managing the land and water resources within a watershed. A watershed is an area of land that drains into a common river, stream, or lake. Watershed management can help to protect water quality, prevent flooding, and conserve water.

Wetlands management is the process of managing wetlands. Wetlands are areas of land that are saturated with water or covered by water at least part of the year. They provide a variety of benefits, such as flood control, water purification, and wildlife habitat. Wetlands management can help to protect these valuable ecosystems.

Water quality management is the process of ensuring that water is safe for human use and consumption. It involves monitoring water quality, identifying sources of pollution, and developing and implementing plans to reduce pollution. Water quality management is essential to protect public health and the environment.

Water treatment is the process of removing contaminants from water. It is used to make water safe for drinking, bathing, and other uses. Water treatment can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as filtration, chlorination, and osmosis.

Wastewater management is the process of managing wastewater. Wastewater is water that has been used for domestic or industrial purposes. It contains a variety of pollutants, such as bacteria, viruses, and chemicals. Wastewater management can help to protect public health and the environment.

Water recycling is the process of reusing wastewater. It involves treating wastewater so that it can be used for other purposes, such as irrigation or industrial cooling. Water recycling can help to conserve water and reduce pollution.

Water conservation is the practice of using water more efficiently. It involves a variety of measures, such as fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and watering lawns less often. Water conservation can help to ensure that we have enough water for all uses.

Desalination is the process of removing salt from seawater. It is used to produce fresh water from seawater. Desalination can be a valuable tool in areas where water is scarce. However, it is a costly process and can have negative environmental impacts.

Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting rainwater for reuse. It can be used for a variety of purposes, such as watering lawns, washing cars, and flushing toilets. Rainwater harvesting can help to reduce water consumption and improve water quality.

Groundwater management is the process of managing groundwater resources. Groundwater is water that is stored underground in aquifers. It is a valuable source of water for drinking, irrigation, and industry. Groundwater management can help to protect groundwater quality and prevent depletion.

Dams and reservoirs are structures that are used to store water. Dams are built across rivers to create reservoirs. Reservoirs can be used for a variety of purposes, such as irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation. Dams and reservoirs can have a significant impact on the environment.

Water canals and pipelines are structures that are used to transport water. Water canals are open channels that are used to transport water over long distances. Pipelines are closed pipes that are used to transport water over short distances.

What is land management?

Land management is the process of planning and implementing the use of land resources. It includes activities such as land use planning, soil conservation, and water management.

What are the different types of land management?

There are many different types of land management, depending on the specific needs of the land and the people who use it. Some common types of land management include:

What are the benefits of good land management?

Good land management can provide many benefits, including:

What are the challenges of land management?

There are many challenges to land management, including:

What is the future of land management?

The future of land management will be shaped by a number of factors, including population growth, climate change, economic development, and conflict. It is important to develop sustainable land management practices that can meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

What are some examples of good land management practices?

Some examples of good land management practices include:

What are some examples of bad land management practices?

Some examples of bad land management practices include:

What can I do to help with land management?

There are many things you can do to help with land management, including:

  1. Which of the following is not a type of land use?
    (A) Agriculture
    (B) Industry
    (C) Residential
    (D) Transportation

  2. Which of the following is not a type of water use?
    (A) Domestic
    (B) Industrial
    (C) Agricultural
    (D) Recreation

  3. Which of the following is the most common type of land use in the United States?
    (A) Agriculture
    (B) Industry
    (C) Residential
    (D) Transportation

  4. Which of the following is the most common type of water use in the United States?
    (A) Domestic
    (B) Industrial
    (C) Agricultural
    (D) Recreation

  5. Which of the following is the largest source of Water Pollution in the United States?
    (A) Agriculture
    (B) Industry
    (C) Municipal wastewater
    (D) Mining

  6. Which of the following is the most important factor in determining the sustainability of land use?
    (A) The type of land use
    (B) The intensity of land use
    (C) The location of land use
    (D) The management of land use

  7. Which of the following is the most important factor in determining the sustainability of water use?
    (A) The type of water use
    (B) The intensity of water use
    (C) The location of water use
    (D) The management of water use

  8. Which of the following is the most important factor in reducing water pollution?
    (A) Reducing the amount of pollution generated
    (B) Improving the treatment of wastewater
    (C) Reducing the amount of water used
    (D) Increasing the amount of water recycled

  9. Which of the following is the most important factor in reducing land degradation?
    (A) Reducing the amount of land used
    (B) Improving the management of land use
    (C) Increasing the amount of land that is protected
    (D) Reducing the amount of pollution that is generated on land

  10. Which of the following is the most important factor in ensuring the sustainability of land and water resources?
    (A) Integrated management
    (B) Public participation
    (C) Economic incentives
    (D) Technological innovation

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