Discuss the major droughts in India and highlight the government policy related to drought management.

India has experienced several major droughts throughout its history, affecting large regions and millions of people. Some significant drought events in India include:

1. Drought of 1899-1900: This severe drought affected large parts of India, leading to widespread crop failures and food shortages, particularly in the Deccan region.

2. Drought of 1965-1967: This drought was one of the most severe in independent India's history, impacting over 50% of the country's land area and causing significant agricultural losses.

3. Drought of 1972: Another major drought, known as the "Bihar drought," affected large parts of northern and eastern India, leading to widespread food scarcity and socio-economic distress.

4. Drought of 1987: This drought affected several states including Maharashtra, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka, causing severe crop failures and water scarcity.

5. Drought of 2002: The drought of 2002 was particularly severe in Gujarat and Rajasthan, leading to significant agricultural losses and water shortages.

6. Drought of 2015-2016: This recent drought affected many parts of India, particularly southern states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. It resulted in crop failures, water scarcity, and distress among farmers.

Government Policies and Initiatives for Drought Management in India:

The Indian government has implemented various policies and initiatives to address drought and mitigate its impacts. Some key measures include:

1. National Water Policy: The National Water Policy emphasizes sustainable use and management of water resources, including measures for drought mitigation and water conservation.

2. National Drought Management Guidelines: The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare has issued National Drought Management Guidelines to assist states in drought monitoring, preparedness, response, and recovery.

3. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): This crop insurance scheme provides financial support to farmers in case of crop failure due to natural calamities including drought. It aims to reduce the financial risks faced by farmers.

4. National Food Security Mission (NFSM): The NFSM promotes sustainable agriculture and aims to increase food production and productivity in drought-prone areas through improved technologies, seeds, and farming practices.

5. National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA): During droughts, the government implements special provisions under NREGA to provide employment opportunities for rural households in water conservation and drought-proofing activities.

6. Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP): The IWMP focuses on rainwater harvesting, soil conservation, and recharging groundwater to enhance water availability and mitigate drought impacts in vulnerable areas.

7. National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS): NAIS provides insurance coverage to farmers against crop loss due to various natural calamities including drought, thereby reducing the economic burden on farmers during drought years.

8. Drought-Proofing Measures: The government promotes drought-proofing measures such as construction of check dams, farm ponds, and water harvesting structures to enhance water storage and availability during dry spells.

9. Disaster Management Framework: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has developed guidelines and plans for drought management, focusing on preparedness, response, and recovery strategies.

These policies and initiatives aim to enhance drought resilience, support affected communities, and promote sustainable agricultural practices in drought-prone regions of India. However, challenges remain in effective implementation, coordination among agencies, and ensuring timely assistance to vulnerable populations during drought emergencies. Continued efforts and investments in drought management are essential to build resilience and minimize the socio-economic impacts of droughts in India.