Abstract:
Watershed Development Programme is of completely new dimension and empowered
people in designing and implementing the programme along with fund utilization,
accounting and record maintenance. It has been observed that significant developments not
been made to the tribal people living in watershed area. A study was conducted with 192
respondents from 12 watersheds covering 4 blocks in Kalahandi and Nuapara districts in
Odisha. Gram panchayat / village not consulted sufficiently, no transparency in selecting
committee members, Watershed Association meeting not held regularly, monopoly of the
committee members, inadequate programme for women, no permanent approach to each
programme, insufficient demonstration, inadequate funds to cover all farm based activities,
no revolving fund facilities for SHG activities, inadequate funds for training and other
educational activities, lack of sincerity and dedication of project personnel, no regular
review meetings as well as problems and difficulties arise in field situations not solved
were the pertinent constraints expressed by the respondents. The District Watershed
Advisory Committee members have to monitor all these constraints, ensureall these
facilities and strictly adherence to the guidelines along with possible supports for effective
implementation of the programme benefiting tribal people living in the watershed areas.
