Governments at various levels implement schemes and programs aimed at natural resource conservation and promoting sustainable livelihoods.
These initiatives often address issues such as environmental protection, sustainable agriculture, forest management, water conservation, and rural development. Here’s an overview of some key government schemes and programs in India:
1. Forest Conservation
a. National Afforestation Programme (NAP):
- Objective: To promote afforestation and reforestation activities, especially in degraded forest areas.
- Key Features: Involves planting trees, maintaining forest cover, and involving local communities in afforestation efforts.
b. Green India Mission:
- Objective: To enhance ecological sustainability through increased forest and tree cover.
- Key Features: Focuses on improving ecosystem services, biodiversity conservation, and combating climate change.
c. CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority):
- Objective: To manage and utilize funds collected as compensation for forest land diverted for non-forest uses.
- Key Features: Funds are used for afforestation, forest restoration, and conservation projects.
2. Water Conservation
a. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY):
- Objective: To enhance water use efficiency in agriculture through improved irrigation systems.
- Key Features: Includes initiatives like micro-irrigation, watershed development, and rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.
b. National River Conservation Plan (NRCP):
- Objective: To improve the water quality of major rivers in India through pollution control and conservation measures.
- Key Features: Focuses on sewage treatment, riverfront development, and riverbank protection.
c. Jal Jeevan Mission:
- Objective: To provide safe and adequate drinking water through household tap connections.
- Key Features: Emphasizes sustainable water supply and management practices at the village level.
3. Soil and Land Conservation
a. Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP):
- Objective: To manage natural resources in a holistic manner and improve productivity in watershed areas.
- Key Features: Includes soil and water conservation, afforestation, and livelihood enhancement activities.
b. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA):
- Objective: To promote sustainable agricultural practices and ensure soil health.
- Key Features: Focuses on soil conservation, organic farming, and sustainable agricultural technologies.
c. Soil Health Management (SHM):
- Objective: To improve soil health and fertility through integrated soil management practices.
- Key Features: Includes soil testing, promotion of organic fertilizers, and balanced use of chemical fertilizers.
4. Biodiversity Conservation
a. National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBAP):
- Objective: To conserve biological diversity and ensure its sustainable use.
- Key Features: Includes measures for protecting ecosystems, conserving species, and promoting sustainable development.
b. Project Tiger:
- Objective: To conserve tigers and their habitats through dedicated tiger reserves.
- Key Features: Focuses on habitat management, anti-poaching measures, and research on tiger populations.
c. Project Elephant:
- Objective: To conserve elephants and their habitats while promoting human-elephant coexistence.
- Key Features: Involves habitat management, anti-poaching initiatives, and addressing human-wildlife conflicts.
5. Rural Development and Livelihoods
a. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA):
- Objective: To provide wage employment and improve rural infrastructure through public works.
- Key Features: Includes works related to water conservation, soil conservation, and rural roads.
b. Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G):
- Objective: To provide affordable housing to the rural poor.
- Key Features: Focuses on constructing pucca houses with basic amenities.
c. National Rural Employment Generation Scheme (NREGS):
- Objective: To enhance livelihood security by providing employment opportunities.
- Key Features: Includes activities related to conservation of natural resources, such as afforestation and water harvesting.
d. Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (DAY-NRLM):
- Objective: To promote self-employment and improve livelihoods in rural areas.
- Key Features: Focuses on creating self-help groups, providing financial and technical support, and skill development.
6. Climate Change and Sustainable Development
a. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
- Objective: To address climate change through coordinated actions and strategies.
- Key Features: Includes missions on solar energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable agriculture.
b. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP):
- Objective: To improve air quality through various pollution control measures.
- Key Features: Focuses on reducing emissions, monitoring air quality, and promoting public awareness.
These schemes and programs reflect a multifaceted approach to natural resource conservation and sustainable development, aiming to balance environmental protection with economic growth and social well-being.