Explain Desert Development Programme.
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The Desert Development Programme (DDP) was launched by the Government of India in 1977 with the aim of addressing the unique challenges and promoting sustainable development in desert areas of the country, particularly the Thar Desert region. The primary objective of the Desert Development Programme was to combat desertification, improve the quality of life of people living in arid and semi-arid regions, and promote ecological restoration and sustainable resource management.
Key features of the Desert Development Programme include:
Focus Areas: DDP primarily targeted desert regions such as the Thar Desert in Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab, characterized by low rainfall, water scarcity, and fragile ecosystems.
Objectives: The program aimed to enhance agricultural productivity through soil and water conservation measures, promote afforestation and pasture development, and improve access to water resources for drinking and irrigation.
Components: DDP implemented various components including watershed development, construction of check dams, farm ponds, and water harvesting structures, promotion of drought-resistant crops, and introduction of alternative livelihoods.
Community Participation: DDP emphasized community involvement in planning, implementation, and management of development activities, fostering local ownership and sustainability.
Integrated Approach: The program adopted an integrated approach by leveraging synergies with other rural development schemes and agencies to achieve holistic development outcomes.
The Desert Development Programme played a pivotal role in addressing environmental degradation, promoting sustainable natural resource management, and enhancing livelihood opportunities in desert areas. Over time, DDP evolved into broader initiatives focusing on sustainable development, climate change adaptation, and resilience-building in arid and semi-arid regions of India.