(a) whether the revised guidelines issued by the Union Government under the Watershed Development Programme are not being properly implemented by various States;
(b) if so, the details thereof, State-wise;
(c) the action taken/proposed to be taken by the Government in this regard; and
(d) the extent to which the revised guidelines are going to give its desired results?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT (Prof. Rita Verma)
(a) to (d): The Guidelines for Watershed Development have come into force w.e.f. 1.4.1995 and since then these are being implemented quite effectively. However, there is always a scope for improvement by making appropriate changes. The revised Guidelines (under issue) envisage greater flexibility, focussed role for Panchayati Raj Institutions, twin track approach, exit protocol, greater community participation in project implementation and post project maintenance etc.