(a) whether any project to regenerate degraded rainfed ecosystem
is being implemented in Maharashtra under the National Watershed
Development Project for Rainfed Areas;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the details of funds released from the watershed development
fund to Maharashtra; and
(d) the achievement made so far in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, FOOD PROCESSING
INDUSTRIES AND PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS(SHRI HARISH RAWAT)
(a): Yes, Madam. Degraded rainfed areas are being treated in State
of Maharashtra since VIII Five Year Plan under National Watershed Development
Project for Rainfed Areas.
(b): Since inception upto March 2011, an area of 5.20 lakh ha. have
been developed incurring an expenditure of Rs.244.03 crore in 1036 micro
watersheds.
(c): As on 31 March 2011, NABARD has released Rs.79.77 crore for 6
distressed districts covered under PM’s Rehabilitation Package and Rs. 1.88
crore for non-distressed districts.
(d): An area of 1.82 lakh ha. has been covered in 6 distressed districts
and 0.1 lakh ha. in non-distressed districts.