EVALUATION


Evaluation of Integrated Wasteland Development Programme in Neemuch District of Madhya Pradesh

Agency: State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD), Jabalpur

Duration: 2002

Area:  Rupa Nadi Mili Watershed in Neemuch

Sample: 5 out of 14 micro watersheds

Results and major findings

                                  i.            Implementation of the Programme is being carried out with active participation of local community. The Watershed committee and User Groups are fully aware of their rights and responsibilities.

                             ii.            The PIA has given top priority to community participation and has carried out the implementation in active involvement from the community.

                           iii.            Even in the years of drought, villagers were able to get employment through the activities carried out under the project, there was a decrease in migration and they were able to get rid of the problem of drinking water insufficiency. The agricultural productivity has gone up and there has been an improvement in economic condition of villagers.

                            iv.            There is transparency in financial transaction. Watershed committee and PIA maintain the accounts jointly. All payments are done in front of watershed committee members and the accounts books are presented periodically in Gram Sabha.

                              v.            Public contribution is mainly in the form of labour and assistance with tractor. Community has a sense of ownership for the structures made under the project, which is evident from the fact that during heavy rains people camp near the structures to see that no damage is cause to it.

                            vi.            After being inspired from the visit to Ralegaon Siddhi, the community has adopted the five tools of Voluntary Action (charai bandi, Kulahr bandi, Nasha bandi, Angutha bandi and Nas bandi), which has led to the development and regeneration of Natural resources and overall development of the community