Describe the contribution of Tarun Bhart Sangh (TBS) to watershed development in rural area.

The Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS), founded by Rajendra Singh in 1975, has made significant contributions to watershed development in rural areas of India, particularly in the state of Rajasthan. TBS's approach to watershed management has been transformative, emphasizing community participation, traditional wisdom, and ecological restoration. Here are the key contributions of TBS to watershed development:

1. Revival of Traditional Water Harvesting Techniques:
   TBS has played a pivotal role in reviving and promoting traditional water harvesting techniques prevalent in the arid regions of Rajasthan. By reintroducing methods such as johads (small earthen dams), khadins (contour trenches), and other indigenous structures, TBS has effectively captured rainwater and replenished groundwater levels. These interventions have led to increased water availability for agriculture, drinking, and livestock rearing in drought-prone areas.

2. Community Mobilization and Capacity Building:
   TBS emphasizes community mobilization and capacity building as core elements of its watershed development approach. Through extensive awareness campaigns, training workshops, and participatory planning processes, TBS has empowered local communities to take ownership of water management initiatives. Villagers are actively involved in decision-making, implementation, and maintenance of watershed projects, leading to sustainable outcomes and strengthened social cohesion.

3. Integrated Watershed Management:
   TBS promotes an integrated approach to watershed management that considers ecological, social, and economic dimensions. Watershed development efforts by TBS encompass soil conservation, afforestation, groundwater recharge, and sustainable agricultural practices. This holistic approach ensures comprehensive restoration of degraded landscapes and improved livelihoods for rural communities.

4. Impact on Rural Livelihoods:
   TBS's watershed development interventions have had a profound impact on rural livelihoods. By enhancing water availability and promoting agricultural productivity, TBS has enabled farmers to diversify crops, increase yields, and achieve food security. Improved water access has also boosted livestock rearing and non-farm activities, generating additional income opportunities for rural households.

5. Recharge of Aquifers and Restoration of Ecosystems:
   TBS's interventions have contributed significantly to the recharge of aquifers and restoration of ecosystems in water-stressed regions. By creating check dams, percolation tanks, and water retention structures, TBS has facilitated rainwater infiltration and groundwater recharge. This has led to the revival of vegetation, biodiversity, and natural habitats, mitigating desertification and conserving fragile ecosystems.

6. Policy Advocacy and Scaling Up:
   TBS has been instrumental in advocating for policy reforms and scaling up successful watershed development models. Through partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, and research institutions, TBS has influenced state-level policies on water management and rural development. TBS's innovative approaches have been replicated in other states, demonstrating the scalability and replicability of community-driven watershed initiatives.

7. Recognition and Awards:
   The impactful work of TBS in watershed development has garnered national and international recognition. Rajendra Singh, the founder of TBS, received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Community Leadership in 2001 for his pioneering efforts in water conservation and rural development. This recognition has further elevated TBS's profile and contributed to broader awareness of sustainable water management practices.

In conclusion, the Tarun Bharat Sangh (TBS) has made a remarkable contribution to watershed development in rural areas, particularly in Rajasthan, through its community-driven approach and emphasis on traditional wisdom. TBS's interventions have not only improved water availability and agricultural productivity but also empowered rural communities to become stewards of their natural resources. The success of TBS's watershed projects underscores the importance of grassroots participation, integrated management, and ecological restoration in achieving sustainable rural development.