What are the benefits of implementing the 'Integrated Watershed Development Programme'? Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Answer: (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

Soil conservation, water harvesting and regrowth of vegetation.

Statement by statement

1. ✓ YES Bunds, trenches and vegetation stop soil run-off.

2. ✗ NO River-linking is a separate national project, not watershed work.

3. ✓ YES Check dams and ponds harvest rain and recharge groundwater.

4. ✓ YES Closing areas to grazing lets natural vegetation regrow.

The idea

A watershed is the area whose runoff drains to a common outlet. Treating its slopes and channels together slows water before it leaves the area. This conserves soil and gives more rainwater time to enter the ground.

Treat upper slopes → Restore plant cover → Slow runoff with contour works → Hold water in small structures → Increase infiltration → Reduce erosion and support regrowth

Why the others are wrong

(a) Adds river-linking and drops harvesting and regrowth.

(b) Adds river-linking.

(d) Adds river-linking.

The trap

River-linking is also about water, so it sneaks into a watershed list.

Elimination technique

Interlinking large river systems works between basins; watershed treatment works within a local drainage area. Reject statement 2 on that difference, leaving only (c).

Also know

A ridge separates neighbouring watersheds. Contour bunds follow lines of equal height; check dams hold back flow in small channels. Rainfed farming depends mainly on rainfall, whereas irrigation brings an additional water supply. Watershed work can support both without transferring water between major river basins.