Question

Describe "Hill Area Development Programme."

Hint:

Remember the core idea of the HADP: developing hill areas based on their unique strengths (like growing fruits or tea) while carefully protecting their fragile environment. It's a blend of economic growth and ecological preservation.

Answer 1

The Hill Area Development Programme (HADP) was initiated during the Fifth Five-Year Plan in India. Its primary objective is the integrated and sustainable development of designated hilly regions of the country.
Key Features:

It focuses on the specific needs and ecological fragility of hill areas.

The programme emphasizes the development of sectors in which these regions have a comparative advantage, such as horticulture, plantation agriculture, animal husbandry, poultry, forestry, and small-scale and village industries.

A crucial aspect of the programme is maintaining ecological balance and promoting afforestation and soil conservation.

It aims to improve the quality of life of the hill communities by providing basic infrastructure and employment opportunities, thereby reducing regional disparities.

The programme covers specific hill districts in states like Uttarakhand, Assam, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.