Question

In which State is Indira Gandhi Canal Command Area located? What is its contribution for the promotion of sustainable development in India?

Hint:

When discussing a large development project, a balanced answer is key. Highlight both the significant positive contributions (the 'pros') and the resulting challenges or negative impacts (the 'cons'). Conclude by suggesting measures for mitigation, which directly addresses the concept of 'sustainability'.

Answer 1

Location:
The Indira Gandhi Canal Command Area is predominantly located in the north-western part of the state of Rajasthan. It was designed to utilize the waters of the Ravi and Beas rivers to irrigate the arid and semi-arid lands of the Thar Desert.
Contribution to Sustainable Development:
The Indira Gandhi Canal project has had a profound impact on the region. Its contribution to sustainable development can be analyzed through its ecological, economic, and social impacts, though it has also presented challenges that require careful management.
1. Positive Contributions:
- Ecological Sustainability: The availability of water has led to large-scale afforestation and pasture development programmes. This has increased the green cover in the desert, which in turn has helped in stabilizing sand dunes, reducing wind erosion, and moderating the micro-climate.
- Economic Sustainability: - Agricultural Transformation: The canal has transformed the subsistence-based agricultural economy into a flourishing commercial one. It enabled the cultivation of water-intensive crops like wheat, rice, cotton, and groundnut in an arid region, leading to a significant increase in agricultural production and productivity. - Livelihood Security: The increase in agricultural activities created employment opportunities, enhanced farmers' incomes, and improved the overall economic condition of the people, reducing poverty and out-migration. - Social Sustainability: The canal has provided clean water for drinking and domestic use, which has improved the health and quality of life of the residents. The increased prosperity has also led to the development of better social infrastructure like schools and hospitals.
2. Challenges and Measures for True Sustainability:
While the project brought immense benefits, the intensive irrigation in an arid environment led to serious problems like waterlogging and soil salinization in many areas, which is unsustainable in the long run. To counter these negative impacts and promote genuine sustainable development, the following measures have been suggested and are being implemented:
- Strict Implementation of Water Policy: Adopting a 'warabandi' system (equitable water distribution rota) to ensure water reaches all farmers and to prevent overuse by those at the head of the canal.
- Promoting Water-Efficient Agriculture: Encouraging farmers to cultivate crops that require less water and are suitable for the arid environment. The adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation is also being promoted.
- Land Development and Management: Programmes for land leveling, lining of watercourses to reduce seepage, and reclamation of waterlogged and salinized lands are crucial.
- Community Participation: Involving farmers and local communities in the management of water resources to foster a sense of responsibility and ensure equitable and sustainable use.
In essence, the Indira Gandhi Canal is a monumental engineering feat that has positively impacted the region. However, its long-term success and contribution to sustainable development depend on the effective management of its negative ecological consequences through careful planning and community involvement.