The correct answer is: a) Reducing disparities between hill and valley regions.
The Hill Areas Development Programme (HADP) is a special initiative aimed at reducing disparities between hill and valley regions. It was launched in 1972 with the objective of promoting economic development and social justice in the hill areas of India. The HADP covers a wide range of activities, including infrastructure development, agriculture and horticulture development, education and health services, and poverty alleviation.
The HADP has been successful in reducing disparities between hill and valley regions. However, there are still some challenges that need to be addressed. These include the need for better coordination between different government departments, the need for more investment in infrastructure, and the need to address the issue of poverty.
The other options are incorrect because:
- Option b) Promoting tourism is not the main objective of the HADP. However, the HADP does support tourism development in the hill areas.
- Option c) Conserving forests is not the main objective of the HADP. However, the HADP does support forest conservation in the hill areas.
- Option d) Expanding road infrastructure is not the main objective of the HADP. However, the HADP does support road infrastructure development in the hill areas.