THIS BOOK IS PUBLISHED UNDER THE

AUSPICS OF AND WITH FINANCIAL

ASSISTANCE PROVIDED
BY
GOVERNMENT OF IND~A~
DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS,
PUBLIC GRIEVANCES & PENSIONS,

NEW DELHI
 NEERU - MEERU
A MASSIVE POPULAR ACTION FOR
WATER CONSERVATION
IN
ANDHRA PRADESH

DOCUMENTED
BY
E.D. SETTY, Ph.D.

FOREWORD

BY

P.V.R.K. PRASAD, lAS

 FOREWORD
"Water, the wonderful, flowing medium, the luck of the planet
- which would serve humankind in so many ways, and which gives
our planet a special character-made possible man's first small
.successes in measuring the dark hours. Water which could be
captured in any small bowl, was more manageable than the sun's
shadow. When mankind began to use water to serve him for a
timepiece, he took another small step forward in making the planet
into his household. Man could make the captive water flow fast or
slow, day and night. He could measure out its flow in regular, constant
units which would be the same at the equator or on the tundra, winter
or summer. But perfecting this device was long and difficult. By the
time the water clock was elaborated into a more or less precision
instrument, it had already begun to be supplanted by something far
more convenient, more precise and more interesting".
We may call water as gift of nature and as gift of god. Both
being the same, such a gift has become rather a scarce commodity.
Water is one of the most important resources, which is vital for life
and for all economic activity. Its indiscriminate use has resulted in a
grave situation that threatens to assume gargantuan proportions very
soon. The dwindling of forests has led to a decrease in rainfall and
made large tracts of land barren and uncultivable. Lack of water has
become a major constraint to development. Several investigations
have shown that only 9% of rainwater is actually retained as
groundwater. The State Government has therefore taken up the
Neeru-Meeru - Jalayagna Programme in the state focusing on a
comprehensive approach to augmenting water resources through
rainwater harvesting, conservation of groundwater, taking up tree
plantations, etc. The Neeru-Meeru Programme integrates micro and
macro approaches and aims at involvingall stakeholdersin conserving
and augmenting water availability in the state. It may be mentioned
here that the Government of Andhra Pradesh has sponsored the
documentation of Neeru-Meeru and the Department of Administrative
Reforms, Pensions & Public Grievances, Govt. of India was kind
enough to provide financial assistance for documentation of the
project.
I would like to express my appreciation and thanks to the
various departments associated with this project in complying with
our request in sending material in terms of what the State has been
able to accomplish in conservation of water through several means
and methods.
Summarizing the present problems and difficulties and also
looking into the future prospects of the State's advancement, keeping
in view the Vision-2020, the Hon'ble Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh,
Nara Chandrababu Naidu, as part of the vision initiated the Neeru-
Meeru-Jalayagna Programme in the year, 2000. The credit for the
entire project goes to the Chief Minister.
I am sure if we continue our efforts to conserve and augment
water availability through the Neeru-Meeru Programme, we will soon
be able to drought-proof our State and add immensely to the economic
wellbeing of our people.
I appreciate and congratulate Dr. E.D. Setty, Consultant, Dr.
MeR HRD Institute of A.P, in documenting this project.

12thFebruary, 2004, P.V.R.K. PRASAD,IAS

Hyderabad. DIRECTOR GENERAL,
Dr. MCR HRD INSTITUTE OF AP &
EX-OFFICIO SPECIAL CHIEF SECRETARY
TO GOVT. OF ANDHRA PRADESH
 PREFACE
It is needless to emphasize the primacy of water for origin
and sustenance of life. We move into action when we face problems
and scarcity of resources. So long resources are abundant and
appear infinite we do not bother about them. Water was once an
abundant resource and today especially by action of mankind it has
become a scarce commodity. We could see, as a result of man's
ignorance and avarice what has happened over the globe in respect
to water. Some parts of the planet are endowed with enormous water
resources. Some are in a poor state. The planet has gone through
a lot of transformations. Some areas have become deserts. Within
the country the conditions in respect to availability of water or lack of
it vary. The State of Andhra Pradesh is facing the scarcity of water
for agriculture, industry and for domestic and drinking purposes also.
The Government of Andhra Pradesh has taken positive steps in
conserving water by several means and measures.
The present document brings out the initiative, planning,
organizing and implementation of several micro and macro
programmes in respect to conservation of rainwater. In a sense, it
focuses on the philosophyand indispensabilityof water as a resource,
the people's participation and it looks into the future emphasizing the
organizational means in terms of sustainability of water resources.
The introductory part focuses on indispensability of
conservation of water, followed by the philosophy behind the Neeru-
Meeru programme in Chapter-2. Chapter-3 briefly looks into the
factors causing the emergence of water as a problem and a scarce
commodity. Chapter-4 highlights the technical nature of the Neeru-
Meeru Programme and constitution of Water Conservation Mission
which on survey brought out a report as to how the conservation of
water is to be carried out. As a follow-up to conservation of water,
chapter-5 looks into operational means and. methods in harvesting
and conserving rainwater. Chapter-6 provides the institutional and
administrative arrangement made by the Government towards Neeru-
Meeru movement.

Chapter 7 at length speaks of the technical and economic

aspects related to watershed development programmes and the
operational methods to be adopted at every stage. The Groundwater
Department is one of the principal partners in respect to Neeru-Meeru
Programme. Chapter 8 provides details of groundwater resources in
the State of Andhra Pradesh and the various stages at which the
water resources stand today in terms of their potential and
development.

The role of the Department of Forests is quite significant in

respect to Neeru-Meeru programme. The forests may be called the
parents of rain. Chapter 9 briefly describes the initiatives taken by
the Forests Department in fostering Vana Samrakshana Samithies
(VSSs) which playa modest at the same time a vital role contributing
to the afforestation which in turn contributes to increase in rainfall.

The name of the department may indicate that it is mainly

concerned with temples but it is interesting to note the contribution
made by Endowments Department in respect to Neeru-Meeru in
Chapter 10. As mentioned earlier, speaking of Department of Forests,
the work carried out by VSS is quite appreciable and significant and
chapter 11 details the formation and the functioning of VSSs in the
State. This chapter also briefly describes the contribution of the World
Bank in respect to VSSs.

Chapter 12 includes the report submitted by the Neeru-Meeru

Technical Committee in respect of conservation of water. Chapter
13 in detail describes the concept and the philosophy of people's
participation in all development actvltles.and at the end focuses on
their role and contribution in the Neeru-Meeru Programme.

Chapter 14 briefly describes the achievements and of

perspective plans for Neeru-Meeru Programme. Chapter 15 highlights
the way to go about in managing rural water supply and sanitation.
This could be taken as a summary action programme in respect to
drinking water, sewerage and sanitation. Chapter 16 in brief describes
the watershed activities taken up by the NSS student volunteers in
some of the universities' areas in Andhra Pradesh. Operation of
conservation of water, the work taken up and accomplished by the
Punganur Taluk Rural Reconstruction Movement (PTRRM) is worth
appreciation and it also speaks of the kind of impediments or the
difficulties encountered in carrying out watershed development
programmes. Chapter 17 highlights the way they went about and
the kind of obstacles and apathy they faced in accomplishing
watershed development. Chapter 18 deals with a few success stories
in the field of Neeru-Meeru Programme. The last chapter speaks of
the vision for the future in respect of conservation of water.

It may be mentioned here that the material for this

documentation is based on field visits in the districts of Andhra
Pradesh and on the information obtained from various departments/
sources, every effort has been taken to make this documentation
comprehensive. It is believed that this publication will serve as a
source of information, inspiration, motivation and guidance towards
conservation of rainwater and its judicious use for all survival
purposes.

DOCUMENTALIST
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
The documentalist would like to express his profoundest
thanks to Sri P.V.R.K. Prasad, lAS, Director General, Dr. MCR HRD
Institute of AP and Ex-Officio Special Chief Secretary to the Govt. of
AP (GAD) for the opportunity that he has given to the documentalist
and for his kind Foreword to this publication. He would like to express
his sincere appreciationand thanks to Sri M. Yanadaiah,Senior Steno,
Dr. MCR HRD Institute of AP who has been right from the beginning
associated with this project and who has prepared the entire
manuscript. Heart-felt thanks are expressed to (1) Sri WM Sateesh,
TPC, (2). Mr. G. Satyaki, TRA, (3). Sri P.Krishna Moorthy, TRA and
(4). Sri Sd. Yaseen, Steno of Dr. MCR HRD Institute of AP who have
contributed in some measure in the preparation of the material in
terms of typing and proofreading. Once again the documentalistfeels
thankful to the Institute for giving him this opportunity in documenting
this project.
The documentalistowes his sincere thanks and indebtedness
to the following departments who provided the material and other
sources which formed the basis for this documentation:
1. Water Conservation Mission, Hyderabad & www.wcmap.org

2. Groundwater Department, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad

3. www.andhrapradesh.com

4. http://www.crdap.org/

5. Forest Department,Governmentof Andhra Pradesh, Hyderabad

6. Endowments Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh,

Hyderabad

7. www.ap.nic.in/apforest
8. www.aplivelihoods.org/ArchivelTech-comm-Report%20(1 ).doc

9. Rural Development Department, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh,

Hyderabad

10. Panchayati Raj (Minor Irrigation) Department, Govt. of Andhra

Pradesh.

11. http://www.ifprLorg/pubs/abstractl127/rr127.pdf

12. www.york.ac.uk/instlsei/prp/pdfdocs/appolicy.pdf; & http://

www.geog.leeds.ac. uk/projects/prp/pdfdocs/appolicy. pdf)

13. http://wbln1018.worldbank.org/sar/sa.nsf/0/
acf2b8a3eb9f69878525687f00605632?OpenDocument

14. Setty, E.D. 1970, Community Development and Extension in

India", Gandhigram Rural Institute, Gandhigram, South India.

15. WASH Technical Report No.7, June 1981, WASH Coordination

and Information Centre, Arlington, VA 2209, USA.

16. Ramakrishnaiah. G, Founder-President, The Punganur Taluk

Rural Reconstruction Movement (PTRRM), Chowdepalle,
Chittoor (District), Andhra Pradesh

E.D. SETTY, Ph.D.

December 18, 2003

Dr. MeR HRD Institute of AP, Hyderabad.
CONTENTS
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgement

1. Introduction-Indispensability Of
Conservation Of Water

2. The Philosophy Behind The

Neeru-Meeru Programme 13

3. Factors Causing Emergence Of The Problem 17

4. Conservation Of Water: Efforts By

The State Government 20

5. Operational Means And Methods In

Harvesting And Conserving Rainwater 85

6. Institutional And Administrative

Arrangement In Neeru-Meeru Programme - 102

7. Watershed Development Programme - 135

8. Role Of Ground Water Department in

Neeru-Meeru Programme - 214

9. Role Of Forest Department In

Neeru-Meeru Programme - 223
10. Contribution of Endowments Department
to Neeru-Meeru Programme - 233

11. Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) - 251

12. Neeru-Meeru Technical Committee Report - 305

13. People's Participation in

Neeru-Meeru Programme - 391

14. Achievements And Perspective Plan

For Neeru-Meeru Programme - 415

15. Integrated Approach to Water Supply

and Sanitation Management - 445

16. Water Harvesting By The NSS Volunteers

In The Universities Of Andhra Pradesh - 470

17. Efforts Of A Voluntary Organization

In Watershed Development Management
The Punganur Taluk Rural
Reconstruction Movement (PTRRM) 478

18. Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories - 515

19 .. Water Vision: Looking Into The Future - 534

 I
INTRODUCTION
INDISPENSABILITY OF CONSERVATION OF WATER
It is interesting to note that times were when there was no
scarcity of land, water and other basic resources for the survival of
mankind. Over centuries, with gradual increase in population, land
also has become a comparatively scarce commodity. Nobody would
have imagined that water would become a scarce and a precious
commodity. We have reached a state wherein water has become
the principal source and need for agriculture, industry and for human
survival. This awakening of inadequacy of water has been rather
gradual and we have not suddenly discovered this inadequacy. As
everybody knows minuswater in a particulararea, there is no question
of any settlement or survival of people and other species. We may
look at the basic details of land and rainfall in India in general and
Andhra Pradesh in particular. This will give us an idea'as to where
we stand vis-a-vis availabilityof water and the use of water for survival
purposes. There has not been any common, general, concerted effort
to think, plan and come out with certain basic regulatory and
promotional measures in respect to harvesting and conservation of
rainfall and also through different means to contribute to the rise in
the groundwater level. The state of Andhra Pradeshhas taken positive
steps in conservingwater by several means and measures. However,
there have been measures taken by the farmers and the
administration of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh in conserving
rainwater,thus contributingto irrigationand rise the groundwater level.
We may say that these efforts have been sporadic. At the national
level the Government of India has focused its attention on
conservation of water but the efforts and the programmes have not
been widespread and intensive.
In India the total land area is 3,290 lakh hectares, of this

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
2 NEERU-MEERU

extent of land 1,170 Iaxh of hectares receive 100 mm rainfall during

the year. Of the total land area, nearly 2/3rd! is subject to very low
rainfall. On the other hand 1/9th of the land area is subject to floods.
One has to understand the organic or functional relationship between
the forest area and consequent quantum of rainfall and the way in
which the rainwater is conserved and utilizedfor agricultural and other
purposes. Of the total rainwater 41% ends in the evaporation and
another 40% of rainwater runs through canals and rivulets. Of the
total rainfall, only 10% is used for agricultural purposes and 9%
penetrates into earth and it contributes to the water table. In terms of
the future requirement for the population of 150 crore in the year
2050, water requirement for the entire country is 1,20,100000 lakh
cubic meters. This is the estimate for the year 2050. There has
been negligence and out of ignorance and indifference on the part of
the people over decades in conserving rainwater and also in
maintaining the water bodies, like irrigation tanks and ponds, there is
now scarcity of water for irrigation and for domestic purposes.Another
major contribution to this scarcity is the phenomenal increase in
population. If the conditionscontinue like this we may reach a situation
wherein there will be scarcity of water even for drinking. We have
reached a point of time wherein we have to take stock of the situation,
mobilize resources, move with concerted action in conserving
rainwater and using water judiciously in order to maintain the
groundwater water table.
While the entire focus is on water and everybody is close to
water, it may not be out of place here to briefly speak of water as a
resource on the planet.
I. GroundWater: is contained in the voids within rocks, i.e., in
pores, cracks and other cavities and spaces. It often excludes vadose
water which occurs between the water table and the surface. The
groundwater that originates from the surface, percolating through the
soil (meteoric water) and other sources are juvenile water, generated

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Introduction 3

accruing and coming from deep magmatic processes and connate

water which water is trapped in a sedimentary rock since its formation.

Groundwater is necessary component of most weathering

processes and of course its relationship to the geology, wate',.-table'
and surface may lead to the occurrence of aquifers and artesianwells.

II. Hydrology: the study of water and its cycle which covers bodies
of water and how they change. All physical forms of water - rain,
snow, and surface water are to be studied in all their aspects and
their use as the way in which water circulates between bodies of
water such as seas, the atmosphere and the earth forms the
hydrological cycle.

The cycle consists of various stages: water falls as rain or snow

of which some runs off into streams and then into lakes or rivers
while some percolates into the ground. Plants and trees take up
water and lose it by transpiration to the atmosphere while evaporation
occurs from bodies of water. The water vapour in the air then
condenses to cloud which eventually repeats the cycle.

III. The Vegetation: is controlled by the rainfall and varies from

sparse, drought resistant shrubs and cactic to sudden blooms of
annual plants in response to a short period of torrential rain. If the
groundwater conditions permit or the geology is such that an artesian
well (Aquifer) is created there an oasis may develop within a hot
desert providing an island of green.

IV. Drainage: is the movement of water derived from rain, snoWfall'

and melting of ice and snow, over the land and through it in
subterranean waterways, which results eventually in its discharge
into the sea. The flow of streams and rivers is influenced by the
underlying rocks, how they are arranged and whether there are any
structural features that the water may follow. Further,factors affecting
drainage include soil type, climate and the influence of man.

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
4 NEERU • MEERU

V. Humidity: the amount of moisture in the earth's atmosphere.

Absolute humidity is the actual mass of water vapour in each cubic
metre of air.
VI. Of the 1.5 billion cubic kilometres of water on earth,
• The oceans hold 93.9 %
• Groundwater 4.4 %
• Polar ice 1.0 %
• With rivers, lakes, the atmosphere and soil holding the
reminder.
VII. Water Is finite
• Of the world's major rivers only the Amazon (South America)
and the Congo (Africa) are judged as healthy.
• Just 2.5 % of the world's water is fresh and the rest is salty.
VIII.Fresh Water
• Total Global (Water)
• 97.7 % Salt water
• 2.5 % Fresh water
I. 68.9 % Glaciers & Permanent Snow cover
Ii. 0.3 % Freshwater Lakes and River storage. Only this
portion is renewable
iii. 0.9 % Other including soil moisture, swamp water and
permafrost.
The Waterless Millions
It is alarming to note that Eritrea,Chad, Ethiopiaand Madagascar
are countries where more than three-fourths of the people have no
access to safe water. UNOP statistics say that whereas 28 % of the
population are without safe water in developing countries, the figure
is 41 % In least developed countries and 50% in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Among Asian countries, the situation is grave in Cambodia (70%)

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Introduction 5

and Mongolia (60%). In India, 19% of the population are without

.access to safe water.
IX. The following are the kinds of demand for water:

• Drinking water
• Irrigation sector
• Hydropower
• Navigation
• Industries
• Pisciculture
• Recreation
LAND AND WATER SITUATION IN ANDHRA PRADESH
AP AT A GLANCE - GENERAL
f. Area 2.751akh sqkm "'\
• Population (1999) 75.7 millions
• Density of population 275/ sqkm
• Rural Population 72.92 % (Agr. Based)
•
,. Urban Population
Population expected By 2020
27.08 %
90 million
AP AT A GLANCE - SOCIAL

• Literacy 44.09 %
• Females for 1000 Males ·978
• Scheduled Castes 15.93 %
• Scheduled Tribes 6.31 %

AP AT A GLANCE - LAND USE

.(Million ha.) Percent
• Geographical Area 27.50 100
• Forest area 6.25 23

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
6 NEERU-MEERU

• Barren & Uncultivable land 2.03 8

• Land put to non-agricultural use 2.47 9

• Cultivable waste 0.79 3

• Permanent pastures & grazing 0.78 3

• Land under trees 0.25 1

• Fallow land 4.44 15

• Net area sown 10.48 38

Key Facts of Forests in the State of Andhra Pradesh

Forests at AP
• Geographical Area: 2,75,068 sq. kms.
• Forest Area: 63,814 sq.kms.
• _Length of forest boundaries: 79,311 kms
• Forest Area to Geographical Area: 23.20 %
• Population (1991 census): 665.08 lakhs
• Per capita forest area: 0.096 Ha.
• Live - stock (1993 census): 328.82 lakhs
• No of Forest blocks: 3599
• Forest Revenue/sq. km.: Rs. 18,161.00
• Per capita forest revenue: RS.17.43
(Source: Handbooks of Census 1991 & Livestock census 1993)

Actual forest cover by density classes of Andhra Pradesh

• Dense forest : 23,048 sq.kms.
• Open forest : 19,859 sq. kms.
• Mangrove : 383
(Source: The State of Forest Report 1997)

Wildlife·
• Sanctuaries - 21
• National parks - 4

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Introduction 7

• Deer parks - 13
• Zoological parks - 3

Classification of forest area in Andhra Pradesh

SI Forest Area
Region Percentage
No. (Sq. kms)
1 Legal Status
Reserved 50,478 79.10
Protected 12,365 19.38
Un-classed 971 1.52
Total 63,814 100
2 Composition
Sal 47 0.07
Teak 9145 14.33
Others 54,622 85.60
Total 63,814 100
3 Forest Types
Southern Tropical thorn 16110 25.25
Southern Tropical
moist decidious 16100 25.22
Tropical Dry decidious 28,431 44.55
I.
Litorial 2856· 4.48
Mangrove 317 0.50
.. Total 63,814 100
(Source: PISFR and AAR 1995-96)
RIVER BASINS
Available Per cent of total
Major Rivers
TMC utilizable water
• .' Krishna river , 811 30%
• Godavari river 1,480 54%
• Pennar river 98 03%

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
a NEERU• MEERU

• Other rivers (37 nos.) ~57 13 %

Total 2,746
(77,794 m.cum)

IRRIGATION SCENARIO IN ANDHRA PRADESH

Scheme Nos. Potential (Iakh hal

. Contemplated Created
a). Major 18 15.63 15.60
b). Medium 104 2.70 2.64
c). Minor" 12,351 17.92 11.92
Total 12,473 36.25 36.16
d). well Irrigation
No. of wells 22.5 lakh nos.
Ayacut " 26.4 lakh ha.
GROUND WATER RESOURCES
"'\
Present Utilization TMC (m. cum)
450 12,749
Balance
In command areas 371 " 247
In non-command areas 10,500 7,000

IRRIGATION POTENTIAL
Total Potential area available 87.82 lakh ha
Potential.created 60.05 lakh ha
Potential utilized 57.45 lakh ha

Reasons for shortfall:

• High conveyance losses
• Lack of adequate and reliable water supply
• Unscientific methods of usage of water
• Bad health of irrigation systems

-----Dr.M,C.R.HR.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh..;."

----
Introduction 9

• Lack of sufficient funds

• . Traditional cropping pattern
• Lack of conjunctive use of water.
There is an extent land of 275 lakh hectares in Andhra
Pradesh. Of this area 150 lakh hectares happen to be barren lacking
sufficient irrigation facilities. This constitutes 42% of the total
geographic area in Andhra Pradesh. On an average per annum the
rainfall is around 8631 tmc.
Besidesthe traditionalsourcesof irrigationlike irrigationtanks,
supply canals, there have been other measuresalso in irrigatingfields.
As a result of increase in the area under cultivation and increasing
population and unscientific ways of using water and as a result of
man caused reasons we have reached a stage where water has
become a precious commodity not only for domestic, agricultural and
industrial purposes but also for drinking. It has become a problem
and time has come wherein we have to plan in such a way that we
should educate the people, create awareness in them, involve them
in conservation of rainwater and save rainwater by other means in
order to conserve it in reservoirs, lakes and ponds and also to enrich
moisture and increase the groundwater table. The effort is not only
for today and it is a long one and an on-going one and by now we
have gone through six "NEERU-MEERU" programmes and the
seventh one is in progress and it will continue up to December, 2003.
There has been ..mprecedented mobilization and concerted efforts
both by the Government and by the people's associations in desilting
irrigation tanks and removing all unwanted plant growth in the supply
and irrigation canals. The objective is to increase the land under
cultivation, to ensure adequate supply of water for irrigation and for
industrial purposes both in rural and urban areas. It is being carried-
on on war footing and the water has become a national priority. The
government has constituted a water conservation mission.
Indiscriminateuse of water both in agriculture(cultivatedarea)
and command areas and as a result of floods causing stagnation of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
10 NEERU - MEERU

water in pools, the soil is tuming salty loosing fertility for cultivation.
The total quantum of water that can be expected. from rains and
groundwater is 118.71 crore cubic metres. Of this 'water 88% (177
lakh hectares) of cultivable land could be brought under cultivation.
However, at present only 551akhhectares of land is under cultivation.
It constitutes 33% of cultivable land. There is an imperative need to
harvest and conserve rainwater and also to improve the groundwater
level. At present 9% of rainwater only contributes to the groundwater.
The rest of the rainwater is washed away without seeping into the
ground for want of barriers to arrest the running rainwater. The
principal and immediate objective of Neeru-Meeru programme is to
raise the percentage of rainwater that will be absorbed by the ground
to 13.5% from 9%.
Rainfedagriculturein India'ssemi-aridtropics is characterized
by low productivity, degraded natural resources, and widespread
poverty. Most of the hundreds of millions of people living in the Indian
semi-arid tropics depend on agriculture and natural resource
management for their livelihoods,so development planner'Sare eager
to implement productive, environmentally sustainable land and water
management systems. 1
Watershed development projects are designed to harmonize
the use of w,ater, soil, forest, and pasture resources in a way that
conserves these resourceswhile raiSingagricultural productivity, both
by conserving moisture in the ground and increasingirrigationthrough
tank and aquifer-based water harvesting. Watershed projects have
become widespread in rainfed areas in recent years, with a current
annual budget from all sources that exceeds US$500 million. This
report examines the experience of watershed projects. in Andhra
Pradesh and Maharashtra.
The literature on watershed development in India is growing
rapidly, but most of it is confined to qualitative descriptions of success
stories. Some of these contain excellent insights into the social
processes that contribute to successful watershed development, but

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Introduction 11

there is little frank discussion of less successful projects. The few

quantitative studies available tend to be based on a small number of
heavily supervised projects, with no information about long-term
effects. Benefits after the first year or two were typically assumed,
and, not surprisingly, cost-benefit findings were almost always
favorable. At the same time, the vast majority of projects were never
evaluated, and there were good reasons to suspect that most of them
had little impact.
Andhra Pradesh is similarly diverse. The long coastal plain
along the Bay of Bengal receives more than 1,000 millimeters of
average annual rainfall, and much of it is irrigated by the major canal
systems of the Krishna and Godavari rivers. Moving west from the
coast and over the Eastern Ghats (which are much smaller than the
western Ghats), inland areas on the Deccan Plateau are divided into
the Rayalseema and Telengana regions. Rayalseema is the
southernmost part of the state; it is highly drought prone with average
annual rainfall as low as 500 millimeters in some areas. South
Telengana (which is south of Hyderabad)is also drought prone,though
not to the same extent, with average annual rainfall in the 600-700
millimeters range. Both Rayalseema and south Telengana vary in
their topography, with small hills and valleys that are suitable for
traditional irrigation tanks that capture runoff from rainfall for lowland
irrigation. The predominantly red soils of these regions also favor
tank irrigation. North Telengana (which is north of Hyderabad), on
the other hand, is flatter, has black soils, and receives about 800-
1,000 millimeters of average annual rainfall. Conditions are much
better for rainfed agriculture, comparable to the conditions across
the state border in eastern Maharashtra.
Thus, rainfed agriculture in both states varies between areas
of high and low potential.This heterogeneityhas importantimplications
for the approaches to watershed development.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 12 NEERU- MEERU

Proie~ts that Focuson Rainfed Agriculture

In areas with limited opportunity for water harvesting,

watershed projects typically devote more attention to developing
rainfed agriculture. This is the situation in eastern Maharashtra and
northern Andhra Pradesh, where the terrain is flatter and the climate
less arid. Watershed projects in these areas promote on-site soil and
water conservation measures that improve the resource base for
rainfed agricultural production. This is intended to pave the way for
adoption of crop varieties that are responsive to increased moisture.
These projects often build water-harvesting structures such as check
dams and percolation tanks, but they cannot offer the spectacular
increases in irrigation achieved in places like RaleganSiddhi, because
the terrain does not provide the same opportunities for harvesting
water.
In southern Andhra Pradesh, the most obvious opportunities
for water harvesting have long since been exploited in the.form of
traditional irrigation tanks. Some opportunities remain, but often they
lie in the catchment of an existing tank, thus interfering with the
traditional system. This helps explain why most projects in Andhra
Pradesh focus more on rainfed agriculture than irrigation.

1- Source:- John Kerr, in collaboration with Ganesh Pangare and

Vasudha Lokur Pangare Research Report 127, International Food
Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC.
http://www.ifvri.orglpubs/abstract/127/rr127.pdf

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 2
THE PHILOSOPHY BEHIND THE
NEERU - MEERU.PROGRAMME
For the birth and existence of all kinds of life on the planet
the basic requirement is "water" apart from other survival
requirements. In the absence of water there is no question of
agriculture or any kind of industry or the very existence of life of all
species (not to speak of human species). In the earlier centuries in
view of limited population and considerable extent of surface on the
planet covered by forests, there was sufficient rain, and the scarcity
of water either for drinking, domestic, agricultural and industrial
purposes was not felt. But, during the days of the past there has
been increase in population and decrease in the forest area, which
resulted in reduced rainfall and nearly 50% of the land has become
degraded and not fit for cultivation as it is now but with irrigation
facilities and with augmenting nutrition of the soil with organic and
inorganic material such land could be under cultivationfor rising crops.
Such measures are also being taken not only in Andhra Pradesh but
also in other states.
The objective in Neeru-Meeru is to pay attention to water
which is the primary basis for life. It is not a question of a day or two.
The need is perennial and never ending, it is up to the present
generation to ensure that they have the imagination and commitment
to ensure that they conserve rainwater and contribute by several
measures to the rise in the groundwater level. Water is the factor
which has no alternative. It is a commodity which cannot be in large
quantities imported except for drinking purposes.
People over centuries by virtue of their traditional mode of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
14 NEERU-MEERU

irrigation and vast area covered by forest with seasonal abundant

rains, the question of scarcity of water did not arise. But today with
increase in population, with extended land brought under cultivation
and mechanical means used for drawing groundwater, we have
reached a threatening state in respect to inadequacy of water for
farming and for industrialpurposes. And so, graduallythe Government
and people have to bestow attentionon the measures and the means
to conserve water, and using of this water judiciously as a precious
material.
There is an organic relation between alleviation of poverty
and water. It may be mentioned here in general, most of the poorer
farmers largely own dry lands and their farming depends on rainwater
and also conservation of water in little ponds or irrigation tanks.
Scarcity of water for irrigation, mostly affects the poor farmers who
own limited land and who cannot afford to go in for electric pumpsets
to irrigate their limited land.
It is law of nature that there is a relation between trees and
extent of forests and quantum of rainfall. Rains depend on trees,
trees depend on rains. If one dwindles, the other dwindles. We
could see the cause and effect relationship. Man should have
prudence to understand this law of nature and he should increase
planting of trees, increasing area under forest, protect the forests
and trees like something sacred as the means of survival to man and
the entire.creation. When you speak of trees, we have to see how
the people during the Vedic period and even today the forest dwellers
consider trees as something sacred. In Rig Veda, it is mentioned
referring to Vanaprastha of the four Ashramas the code of life in
respect to Vanaprasthashrama, that the individual dwelling in the
forest, is only to eat fallen leaves, fruits, seeds and not to touch the
green leaves. One can imagine the stricture imposed on people in

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

The Philosophy Behind 15
the Neeru-Meeru Programme

their Vanaprasthashrama stage, not to pluck green leaves and not to

speak of felling or destroying trees. One can imagine extensive
coverage of land with trees during the Rig Vedic period (2000-1500
Be). In spite of such extensive area covered under the forests, people
living in the forest, revered the trees-forests. The importance given
to the trees can be imagined during the Rid Vedic period. Trees are
our ancestors and cousins. Life depends on them. But today the
situation is different. This kind of stricture on food in respect to the
Vanaprasthashrama may also be taken as a dietary regulation which
would reduce his desire for food. It is preparing the individual to
smoothly move into the state of recluse or Sansyasashrama.
While we speak of conservation of water or securing of water
it is interesting to note the efforts made by Bhagiratha, a mythological
character in getting water to the earth. Bhagiratha, the son of Raja of
Dilipa who lssald to have spent a thousand severe austerities upon
a mountain by which he propitiated Brahma and Siva and brought
the Ganges to the earth; and with it watered the ashes of the sixty
thousand sons of Sagara, who were at once restored to life, purified
by the sacred water; all their sins gone and they ascended to heaven.
Sixty thousand sons of Sagara sounds allegorical and we may take
sixty thousand sons as sixty thousand hectares of land with crops
like wheat, and barley (crops during the Rig Vedic period) and
Bhagiratha through his yogic powers stimulated the clouds to rain.
Today we have to plant and provide trees and abundant forests to
welcome the Rain God. The yagna today is our massive action to
save rainwater and conserve every drop of water that falls on the
good earth.
During the Vedic period people worshipped the natural
elements like Agni, Vayu, Varuna and Prithvi and offered sacrifices
appealing to the deified natural elements for abundant rain, and for

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
16 NEERl,J-MEERU

protecting their crops and cattle. The only means they had in those
ancient times consisted of prayers and sacrifices.
Yagnas mattered a great deal during the Vedic period. But
today the Neeru - Meeru programme is not prayer or sacrifice but
committed massive action on the part of the people desilting of lakes,
ponds, supply canals, digging of pits and going in for contour bunds
etc., for conservingevery drop of water. Today we have the technology
and innovative ideas to cope-up with the situation, especially the
means to conserve rainwater and judicious use of ground water for
agriculture and domestic purposes.
Further, It is quite interesting to note when we speak of
planting of trees, and afforestation that the non-Christian tribes in
Meghalaya as they did for ages, worship Rivers, Forests and Hills.
They are nature worshippers as the early Aryans. A river that is
worshipped by them is sacred to them and fishing is forbidden from
such a river. They consider forest as sacred and they used to offer
cocks and hens as sacrifice to the forest. These natural resources
sustain their life and so they have been deified.
For a number of centuries, when agriculture activity was
limited,· the population was thin and when you had extensive
vegetation you had adequate rains and nobody felt the scarcity of
water either for drinking, domestic purposes and for irrigation. Today,
the situation is different in several parts of the world.
When we think of the means for development and progress
and attaining prosperity, one means or commodity is water. We can
never imagine any progress or development in the absence of water.
The Genius and the moral force behind this all-comprehensive
humanitarian survival programme in Andhra Pradesh not onlyfor the
present but also for generationsto come is the Hon'ble Chief Minister
of Andhra Pradesh Nara Chandrababu Naidu.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 3
FACTORS CAUSING EMERGENCE OF
THE PROBLEM
We may mention here that the tanks get silted layer over
layer, for years together and also the profuse growth of weed like
rubber plants in the tank beds, supply and irrigation canals, allowing
reduced quantity of water to flow through the canals and limiting the
water capacity in lakes. The farmers in the community who own
small patches of land under the irrigationsources, may not have equal
concern and interest in desilting and M:lmovingthe weed from the
tanks. For example, a farmer who owns an acre or two acres, may
point out towards big landlords to go in for desilting, etc., since, their
interests are wider and vast. We find this kind of dynamics taking
place in the villages.and people not getting together and venturing
into action desilting etc., in the irrigationtanks. And this kind of attitude
and action on the part of the farmers continues until it reaches a kind
of deplorable state wherein the irrigation tanks become plateau
incapable of receiving and retaining larger quantity of water for
sufficient irrigation of crops.
We may also mention that farmers in this regard are not
ignorant of the negatively developing situation in respect to the tanks,
gradually getting silted but sometimes, it does not move people into
action in a constructive way.
Population in earlier centuries was small and limited
agricultural operations and traditional mode of irrigation did not lower
the water table.
In recent decades the phenomenal increase in population -
mechanization in agriculture and new technology in drawing ground.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAridhra
Pradesh-----
18 NEERU - MEERU

water gradually has caused the impact lowering of groundwater level.

Man's unimaginative action over decades now is the
cause for the present alarming state for water, for man,
animals and his crops.
The reason for inadequacy of water is due to increase
in cultivated area and wet cultivation
If the same state were to continue in several parts, we
may join Sahara or Rajasthan desert.
The following are the sources of water, for domestic,
agricultural and individual purposes:
drinking water wells,
draw wells
step wells (irrigation wells)
ponds (for human and cattle)
ponds - irrigation sources
irrigation lakes
rivers small to large
irrigation supply canals
The desiltingof tanks serves another important purpose apart
from irrigation. It also contributes to the fish to grow in larger quantities
in the irrigation tanks. The fish as everybody knows, is food and also
it has commercial value wherein when the fish in the tanks is
auctioned, the money goes to the local Panchayat.
With the supply of electricity and going in for bore wells and
electric motor pump sets, there has been too much of exploitation of
groundwater which results in the water level going down. Not only in
one well, but also in several in the same area. Sometimes, this over
exploitation of groundwater affects drinking water wells also.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Factors causing 19
Emergence of theProblem

Because of man's ignorance and greed, he has dwindled

the forest area, over-exploited the soil, never bothered about losing
the age-old lakes and other water bodies and now he meets the
challenge for scarcity of water.
With the availability of electricity and the reasonable rates at
which pump-sets are available, farmers vying with each other went
on digging and boring and ~etting up of pump sets.
Further, with the increase in the wet crops the need for
irrigation water increases. When people went in for deepening of
wells, bore and traditional wells and installing pump sets naturally
the water table has gone down. It became a kind of race between
water level going down and farmers chasing the water sources deeper
in the earth with more of boring and digging.
In a matter of last two-three decades, water table in several
places has gone down. As water table goes down, you follow it up
with further boring, It has become a kind of race - the end result is, in
many places, the bore wells and irrigation wells getting dry.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.01nstitute ofAndhraPradesh-----
 4
CONSERVATION OF WATER: EFFORTS
BY THE STATE GOVERNMENT
In the past centuries and decades, the traditional irrigation
tanks, ponds, wells and rainwater served the purpose of cultivation
of crops. Depending on the location, topography of land, geological
features and quantum of rainwater, farmers have devised various
.means and methods of conserving and use of water for irrigation.
Keeping in view the traditional man-madesources of water and modes
of irrigation, the government have been making concerted efforts to
meet the increasing demand for water for irrigation. The devices
suggested have been several. The policy of the govermnent is to
prevent drought, famine situation and to meet the increasing needs
of water in drought prone areas. The Government has introduced
what is called 'Watershed Programme'. It was introduced in 1975 by
Government of India and recommended to the farmers. Since it was
top-down approach it has not evoked anticipatedpeople'spartiCipation
and further the coordination among the departments concerned was
weak and wanting. Some of the watershed projects did not last long.
In the Neeru - Meeru programme, we may think of two
principal objectives. One is to conserve rainwater by multiple ways
for use and also to augmentthe rise of groundwater table. The second
one may be called a preventive action preventing deforestation which
causes decrease in rainfall. This preventive action warrants
continuous planting of trees and increasing the area covered under
forest wherever it is feasible. The gradual increase of afforestation
over a period of time, of course within the geographic area available
would ensure sufficient rainfall. Activities in respect to fulfilling these
two objectives are to be continuous. On one hand, we may have to
go in for what is called harvesting or conserving rainwater and at the

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 Conservation of Water: 21
Efforts by the State Government

same time increase area under greenery which would ensure gradual
increase of rain. The increase of greenery cannot only be a local but
it is to be a widespread activity Le., an activity which is to be carried
on infinitely. Here the responsibility lies with individuals, families and
communities of rural and urban. settlements. We may have to
understand the nature's principle: when the forest areas dwindle the
rainfall too will dwindle and this is the beauty and the principle in
nature one contributing to the other. Increase of forest area will
increase the quantum of rainfall. The increase of rainfall contributing
to more of naturally grown trees provided, man does not destroy
them. This is law of nature. We do not have an alternative except
respecting law of nature and coordinatingwith the principles of nature.
Rainwater is to be harvested and conserved and deforestation is to
be prevented.
Though there are several measures in alleviating poverty,
assuringwater for irrigationpurposesto the limitedland owning-poorer
segments of the farm community is one of the basic measures.
Assuring water for irrigation can be taken as one means in alleviating
rural poverty.
As we have mentioned earlier, because of man's ignorance
and avarice, and lack of knowledge and technology, man has reached
a state where the ground water is depleted and the rainwater has not
been adequately conserved and this is to be reversed to bring back
the ecological balance.
The entire attempt in Neeru-Meeru programme is to bring
back the balance between nature and water. Man has caused the
imbalance between nature and water and that is to be rectified now.
This rectificationand the remedialmeasures involve unendingperiodic
activity, year after year, season after season.
The State government has introduced in 1997, the
Watersheds with the modified principles of Dr. Hanumantha Rao
Committee. This has brought about considerable results in respect

--......,..-- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
22 NEERU - MEERU

to crops cultivated in waste and fallow landsand landswith lessfertility.

This appreciable result could be achieved motivating, working with
and involving the beneficiary farmer groups in the new watershed
programmes. It was realized that people's participation is a primary
ingredient in the success of the watershed programme. Keeping in
view, the importanceand contributingfactor of watershed mechanism,
a ten-year watershed programme was launched all over the State in
1977 in order to bring under cultivation a target area of 100 lakh
fallow and degraded land. As a resultof this programmeby December,
2000, an extent of 27 lakh hectares of wasteland was in the process
of being provided with irrigation. Each watershed project is managed
by a committee of the local farmers. By this time, there were 5472
watershed committees who were active in realizing the objective of
watershed programme. In a similarway, the Joint ForestManagement
bodies have taken up 16.85 lakh hectares of forest wasteland for
development. In this effort - 6705 Forest Protection Samithis have
taken part.
A.P: WATERAND LAND PROFILE
The total geographical area of Andhra Pradesh is 275 lakh
hectares out of which waste and degradedlands constituted 1151akh
hectares (42%). The state receives about 24,44,000 lakhs cubic
meters volume of rainfall through an average annual rainfall of 940
mm. Out of the total volume of 25,83,790 lakh cubic meters (9130
tmc) rainfall received, 10,59,2691akhcubic meters (3743 tmc) (41%)
is lost as evaporation and evapotranspiration, 10,33,516 lakh cubic
meters (3652 tmc) (40%) is lost as surface run-off, while 2,58,379
lakh cubic meters (913 tmc) (10%) is retained as soil moisture and
2,32,626 lakh cubic meters (822 tmc) (9%) is recharged as
groundwater.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
ConservaUon of Water: 23
Efforts by the State Government

Total geographical area of the state : 275Ia.ha.

Waste land and degraded land : 1151a. ha.
Normal annual rain fall : 940 mm.
Total volume of water received per annum : (9130 tmc )
Evaporation & Evapotranspiration : (3743 tmc) 41%
Surface runoff : (3652 tmc) 40%
Soil moisture : (913 tmc) 10%
Ground water recharge : (822 trnc) 9%

A.P: WATER PROFILE

• Evaporation & 10% 9%

Evapotranspiration
41%
o Surface runoff
• Soil moisture
• Ground water recharge 40%
Water a National Priority - Need for a Water Conservation
Mission:
It is quite obvious that water is a perennial need and it naturally
deserves first national priority. It is not enough that we declare this in
words but the whole idea is to be translated into action. The State
government has made a policy decision to remedy the man-made
paucity of water
.
owing to his ignorance, avarice and lack of financial .
resources. The present water situation is a long accumulated abuse,
misuse and negligence on the part of man. Based on the lessons
learnt from the past and the suggestions and guidelines provided by.
several experts, the State government has decided to take up
harvesting, conserving and use of water as a priority development
and welfare activity involving the beneficiary groups at every phase
of action.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
24 NEERU- MEERU

The approach of the government in the reformative and

constructive work has been bringing together various functionally
related departments at State, District and Mandai level to work on
water resources in the large and small river valleys and formulate an
integrated plan of action for harvesting, conserving and judicious use
of water for diverse survival and progressive purposes. This Neeru-
Meeru Programme has facilitated integrating of several activities
and creation of work and job opportunities at the District Level. In
order to have the benefit of expertise in this sensitive and projeot of
primacy, the State government has established a State level Water
Conservation Mission, comprising eminent people.
THE LIST OF MEMBERS OF THE WATER CONSERVATION
MISSION OF ANDHRA PRADESH
SI.No. Position Name and Details
1. Chairman Sri N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief
Minister, Andhra Pradesh
2. Vice-Chairman Sri S.Ray, lAS, Principal Secretary to
Govt. of AP (RD & RE)
3. Chief Executive Sri Anil C. Punetha, lAS, Commissioner,
Officer Rural Development Department
4. Member Sri Anna Saheb Hazare, Ralegao Siddhi,
.Maharashtra
5. -do- Sri B.N. Yugandhar, lAS (Rtd.) Vassan,
I
. Hyderabad
6. -do- Sri Anil Shah, Development Promotion
Centre, Ahmedabad, Gujarat
7. -do- Sri Vilasrao Salunke, Paani Panchayati,
Pune, Maharashtra
8. -do- Sri Vasimalai,Dhan Foundation,Tamil Nadu
9. -do- Sri Rajendra Singh, Tarun Bharat Sangh,
Alwar. Rajasthan

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 25
Efforts by the State Government

10. -do- Sri B.G. Dhokarikar, Pune, Maharashtra

11. -do- Sri C.H. Hanmantha Rao, Planning
Commission Ex-Member, Hyderabad
12. -do- Sri T. Hanmantha Rao, Chief Engineer
(Rtd.), Irrigation Department, Hyderabad
13. -do- Sri Y.V. Malia Reddy, Rural Development·
Trust (NGO), Anantapur
14. -do- Sri Crispino Lobo, WOTR, Ahmednagar,
Maharashtra
15. -do- Or. D.P. Rao, Director, NRSI, Hyderabad
16. -do- Or. Nagender Swamy, Villagers In
Partnership, Mahaboob Nagar

DISTRICT LEVEL WATER CONSERVATION AND USERS

COMMITTEES
51.No. Designation Position
1. Minister Chairman
2. District Collector Executive Officer
3. Members of Parliament Ex-Officio Members
4. Chairman of Zilla Parishad and
District Central Municipality Members
5. Mayor of Municipal Corporation Member
6. A Prominent Industrialist
nominated by the District Collector Member
7. Two Water Conservation
Technologists, nominated by the
District Collector Members
8. Chairmen of Best Watershed
Committees, Vana Samrakshana
Committees, Water Committees Members

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
26 NEERU-MEERU

9. D.P.A.P. Project Director (or)

D.R.D.A. Project Director
(If there is no DPAP) Convener
MANDAL LEVELWATER CONSERVATION AND USERS
COMMITTEES
SI.No. Designation Position
1. President or Special Officer of
Mandai Parishad Chairman
2. MLA belonging to the Mandai Ex-Officio Members
3. Nodal Officer Member
4. Two Local NGOs or Social Workers
nominated by the District Collector Members
5. Three BestPresidents of Self-Help
Groups, nominated by the
District Collector Members
6. A Prominent Industrialist,
nominated by the District Collector Member
7. Mandai Parishad Development
Officer Convener
MUNICIPAL LEVELWATER CONSERVATION AND
USERS COMMITTEES
SI.No. Designation Position
1. Chairman or Mayor of Municipal
Corporation, Municipality,
Town Panchayat Chairman
2. Nodal Officer Member
3. MLA (s) , belonging to the
Municipal area Ex-Officio Members
4. Three Local NGOsor SocialWorkers,
nominated by the District Collector Members

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute of Andhra' Pradesh-' ----

Conservation of Water: 27
Efforts by the State Government

5. Three Best Heads of Self-Help

Groups of D.W.C.U.A., Presidents
of Neighbourhood Committees,
nominated by the District Collector Members
6. A Prominent Industrialist,
nominated by the District Collector Member
7. Municipal Commissioner Convener
V_ILLAGE PANCHAYATI LEVEL WATER CONSERVATION
AND USERS COMMITTEES

SI.No. D~signation Position

1. Sarpanch of the Grama Panchayat Chairman
2. The Best Head of Self-Help Group of
Watershed Committee, DWCRA, W.U.A.S.,
Vana Samrakshana Samithies Chairman
3. Leaders of All Self-Help Groups and
Officers at Village Level Members
4. VillageDevelopment' OfficerNiliageAdministrative
OfficerNiliage Executive Officer Convener
With the ever-increasingpressureon human population,there
has been a severe stress on water resources. Neglect of traditional
bodies like tanks and ponds, indiscriminate exploitation of ground
water, improper maintenance of surface water system has aggravated
the problem still further.
In the light of this backdrop, to give the required impetus to
the water conservation efforts, to converge various programs and to
co-ordinate the activities of various departments engaged in water
conservation the Government of Andhra Pradesh has set up Water
Conservation Mission under the Chairmanship of the Hon'ble Chief
Minister, Nara Chandrababu Naidu emp_anelledwith the experts and
eminent personalities from all over the country working on water
related issues as members. The Commissioner; Rural Development

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
28 NEERU - MEERU

is the Chief Executive Office of the Mission. The water Conservation

Mission meets periodically to guide in formulating policies relating to
water conservation as its sustainable utilization.
NEERU - MEERU
• Government of Andhra Pradesh sought to bring all the water
conservation activities into campaign mode and has launched
Neeru-Meeru program on 1st May 2000 with an objective of
focused onslaught on man made phenomenon of drought and
water shortage.
• The program aims at creating awareness amongst people to
ensure their participation and to 'facilitate co-ordination of
conservation efforts of various Government departments. And
the same is reflected in the nomenclature"Neeru-Meeru"meaning
"Water -You" or to be rightly called 'You & Water'.
• Neeru-Meeru activities taken up by different departments are
aimed at creating more filling space for harvesting rainwaterwhich
contributes to additional groundwater recharge.
OBJECTIVES OF WATER CONSERVATION MISSION
The objective of the Water Conservation Mission is to make
concrete efforts on the conservation and utilization of water on
sustainable basis with a focus on holistic planning and sustainable
development of river basin and sub-basins. Game plan devised to
achieve this objective can be broadly explained as follows:
a) To develop a draft vision for conserving and judicious use of
water in the State.
b) To formulate effective plans and methods for conserving
water.
c) To formulate a time-bound action plan for conservation of
water.
d) To implement the conservation and use of water with the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 29
Efforts by the State Government

coordination of all functionally related departments.

e) To carryout water conservation programmes economically.
f) To encourage local people's part in water conservation.
g) To monitor and assess continuously the water-conservation
programmes
h) To obtain people'sviews and suggestionson the ways, means
and methods in respect to water conservation.
• Develop a clear vision and strategy for water conservation and
its sustainable utilization at the state level.
• Prepare time bound action plan and take measures to ensure
convergence of the plans and programmes of the various
departments working directly or indirectly for water conservation
and utilization.
• Ensure promotion of suitable cost effective and sustainable
measures for water conservation and utilization in the state.
• Initiate public debate on important policy issues related to water
conservation and its sustainable use and build consensus for
policy reforms related to water and its sustainable utilization.

EFFORTS FOR WATER CONSERVATION

• Massive ten-year watershed programme for development of all

degraded and wastelands was launched during 1997 to treat 100
lakh hectares.
• 33.60 lakh hectares of degraded arid wasteland has already been
treated by 7809 watershed committees under Rural Development
department.
• 16.82 lakh hectares of degraded forestland has already been
treated by 6726 Vana Samrakshana Samithis (VSSs) under
Forest department.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
30 NEERU - MEERU

INTRODUCTION TO NEERU-MEERU
Government of Andhra Pradesh sought to bring all the water
conservationactivities into campaign mode and have launched Neeru-
Meeru program on 1st May t 2000 coinciding with 12th round of
Janmabhoornl with an objective of focussed onslaught on man made
phenomenon of drought and water shortage.
The program aims at creating awareness amongst people to
ensure their participation and to facilitate coordination of conservation
efforts of various Government departments.And the same is reflected
in the nomenclature "Neeru-Meeru" meaning "Water -You" or to be
rightly called 'You and Water'.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of Neeru-Meeru is to make concrete efforts on
the conservation and utilization of water on sustainable basis. The
program aims at creating awareness amon.g people all the while
coordinating and converting the activities of various departments
engaged in water conservation mission. Various activities taken up
under this programmes are aimed at creating more filling space for
harvesting rain water which contributes to additional ground water
recharge.
To give the required focus to the program, certain areas have
been prioritized.

Areas Prioritiied Include:

• 675 stress mandals i.e., Category-I (Water Levels >20m.),

Category-II (Water Levels 15 to 20 m.), Category-III (Water
Levels 10 to 15 m.), Category-IV (Water Levels 5 to 10 m.)
and Category-V (Water Levels <5 m.) identified by
Groundwater Department.
• Villages I Habitations which experience drinking water
scarcity.
• Areas with groundwater below 10 metres from surface.

--------Dr.M.C.R.H:R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 ConservaUon of Water: 3.1
Efforts by the State Government

• Villages falling in very high priority watershed areas.

STRATEGIES
Various strategies have been devised to support water
conservation activities and to tackle the water scarcity problem. Some
. of the strategies are:

Rainwater harvesting
• Environmental Engineering from ridge to valley
• Cascading 'tanks
• Recharge structures for all existing wells & bore wells.
• Revival of traditional water harvesting structures
• Roof top rain water harvesting in urban areas
Sustainablewater utilization
• Improved irrigation management
• Changes in cropping pattern, green manuring
• Recycling of waste water

Awareness building on water conservation

Improve/Maintain quality of water
• Prevent indiscriminate disposal of sewage and effluents
• Collection and treatment of effluents
• Pollution check
• Encourage natural regeneration of vegetation and supplementing
it with artificial regeneration
• Prevent Sand Mining

THRUST AREAS
The Water conservation mission is emphasizing on replication
of successful experiments like chain of tanks, farm ponds, converting

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute of Andhra Pradesh-----

32 NEERU-MEERU

dried up wells into recharging wells and series of check dams as

priority areas, details of which are as follows:

Chain of Tanks

• Efforts to revive the traditional concept of chain of tanks on lines

of Srikakulam and Chittoor experiments.
• To take-up tanks with assured water supply from catchments and
feeder channels starting from upstream to downstream.
• To consider only the tanks receiving water upto full tank levels
atleast in last five years.
Farm Ponds

• Encouraging construction of farm ponds by private people

with induction of the element of subsidy.
• Helps in reducing soil moisture losses.
• Helps horizontal sub-surface run-off and help preserving soil
moisture retaining capacity.
Recharge of dried up dug wells

• Diversion of farm run off into dried up wells through a silt trap
pit connected with pipe into the well.
• Simplest way of utilizing empty space available for water
recharge in one's own farm.
• Additional Ayacut is possible by rejuven_atingborewells and
open wells in the village.
Series of Sunken pits

• Sunken pits are low cost water harvesting structures for

treatment of gullies
Feeder / Supply Channels
• Diversion of flows from surplus drainage basin to deficit basin

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 33
Efforts by the State Government

SOURCE OF FUNDS

• Drought Prone Area Programme. (D.PAP.)

• Desert Development Programme. (D.D.P.)
• Integrated Water land Development Programme. (LW.D.P.)
• Employment Assurance Scheme. (E.A.S.)
• Rural InfrastructureDevelopmentFund. (R.LD.F. (NABARD))
• Jawahar Grama Swaraj Yojana. (J.G.S.Y.)
• National Watershed Development Programme for
Rainfed Agriculture (N.W.D.P.R.A.).
• Drought Relief Funds of State/Central Government (Food
For Work).
• Seven Line Departments of Neeru-Meeru. (Forest, Rural
Development, Panchayati Raj (PR) - RWS, Panchayati Raj
- Minor Irrigation, Municipal Administration & Urban
Development, Endowments and Minor Irrigation).
INITIATIVES

The Government of Andhra Pradesh has taken various

initiatives for achieving the objectives of Water Conservation Mission.
Some of the initiatives taken under the programme include:

• Monitoring

• Technical Committee
.
• Categorization of mandals

• Water Audit

• Recording of ground water levels

• Cost Effective Structures

• Transparency and Accountability

• Quality Control
•
• Legislation

Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstituteof AndhraPradesh
34 NEERU - MEERU

• Mission Support Unit (MSU)

• Capacity Building
• Urban Water Conservation
• River Revival Approach

MONITORING
Hon'ble Chief Minister conducts video-conference to review
the department-wise progress in each district. Each district is
evaluated on performance indicator basis. This apart, information on
drawbacks and difficultiesfaced in executionof programmes is sought
to suggest remedial measures.

TECHNICAL COMMITTEE
A state level Technical Committee has been set up on
September 4,2001 with Sri T.Hanumantha Rao as Chairman and with
other experts as members. The committee has provided designs for
low cost water conservation works which are to be built mostly with
local material and local labour. "Four waters concept" has been
adopted for all watersheds and the works are planned for rainwater
conservation from ridge to valley. Detailed plans, drawings and
estimates along with ready reckoner tables have been issued to all
the districts. The Committeewill advise on all technical matters relating
to Neeru-Meeru activities.

CATEGORISATION OF MANDALS
The Ground Water Department has re-categorized the water
stress mandals as per GEC 97 methodology based on the ground
water levels of May,2001 and May, 2002 and stage of exploitation of
Ground water as detailed:

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 35
Efforts by the State Government

No. of Mandai Stress Mandals

ason as on
Category Criteria
May, May, May, May,
2001 200~ 2001 2002
I 80 85 DTW> 20 m.bgl &
exploitation of Ground
Water> 100%
II 171 191 DTW 15 to 20 m.bgl
& exploitation of Ground 558 494
Water 90 to 100%
III 272 243 DTW 10 to 15 m.bgl &
exploitation of Ground
Water 70 to 90%
IV 340 451 DTW 5 to 10 m.bgl &
exploitation of Ground
Water 50 to 70%
558 612
V 218 161 DTW < 5 m.bgl &
exploitation of Ground
Water < 70%
Total 1106 1106 1106 1106

WATERAUDIT
Simplified Procedures are adopted to enable the local people
to carry out Water Audit i.e., to take stock of the progress at village
level and to take judicious decisions keeping in view the available
water resources.

1. Ground Water Audit through Wells

• Ground Water audit is undertaken by taking the following factors
into consideration

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstitute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
36 NEERU - MEERU

• Average draft from each well and total number of wells in the area
• Recharge based on fluctuation
2. Surface Water Audit through Tanks

The following methods 'are used to arrive at surface water audit

• Water spread based recharge calculation
• Wet and irrigated dry crop based utilisation
RECORDING OF GROUND WATER LEVELS

• The ground water levels are recorded at village level to study

the fluctuations and to initiate appropriate measures.
COST EFFECTIVESTRUCTURES

The WCM has aimed at implementing cost effectiveness measures

by
• Adopting location specific structural designs as suggested by
Technical Committee.
• Training and capacity building of official and stakeholders in
all technical aspects.
GREEN MANURE (Cover Crops)

~ . Statistics reveal that nearly 40% to 60% of rainfall, retained in soil

as moisture, is lost through evaporation and evapo-transpiration
in rainfed areas. Cultivation of cover crops can reduce this loss,
improving soil fertility and water retention capacity.
~ To this effect the Departmentof Agriculture has prepared an action
plan to cover 84.58 lakh hectares of arable area starting from
Rabi 2001-2002 to 2003-2004 with 9 cover crops viz., Horsegram,
Pillipesara, 'Greenqrarn, Dallcos lab, Redgram, Blackgram,
Sunhemp, Dhaincha and Sunflower.
• During the year 2002-2003 an area of 2.31 lakh hectares is
proposed to be covered with a target of 50,000 Otis. of seed. As

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 37
Efforts by the State Government

against this 45,857 Qtls. of seed has been distributed covering an

area of 1.93 lakh hectares.
TRANSPARENCYAND ACCOUNTABILITY

• Documentation and display of Neeru-Meeru works (Phase-l to V)

at village level.
• The Principal Accountant General is carrying out concurrent audit
on Neeru-Meeru works to ensure adherence to guidelines by the
executing departments, and also to ensure transparency.
• EngineeringStaff College of India (ESCI) is undertaking inspection
of Neeru-Meeru works and submitting periodical reports to the
Government.
QUALITY CONTROL

• Collectors ensuring frequent inspections by special teams.

• Quality control wings of departments/ taking up inspections/ visits.
LEGISLATION

To give the legislative support to the program The Government

of Andhra Pradesh has promulgated an Act namely, the "Andhra
Pradesh Water, Land and Trees Act, 2002 (Act 10 of 2002)". (Please
see in Appendix-I) ..
This Act envisages:
• To promote water conservation and tree cover.
• Regulate the exploitation and use of ground and surface water for
protection and conservation of water sources.
• Promote environment and matters connected therewith or
incidental thereto.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
38 NEERU-MEERU

TARGETFOR PHASE - VI

Target
Phases Duration Physical Volume Financial
(in (in Lakh (Rs.in
Numbers) Cu.Mtrs)* Lakhs)*

Phase-VI 01.01.2003 to 217,695 2,542.42 38,268.43

31.05.2003

(1 Lakh = 100 Thousand)

CAPACITYBUILDING

The capacity building programme to the field level

functionaries at all levels from involved departments in the districts
taken up by involving Engineering Staff College of India. This will
help the field functionaries to help the user groups in proper execution
of works. This will also strengthen scientific planning and participatory
approaches in execution of Neeru-Meeru works.
(Timetable for one-day training programme for capacity
building by ESCI / Feedback Form for one day training programme /
Capacity Building Trainings proposed to the implementing
departmental officers field staff to be conducted by ESCI at the
Districts - Please see Appendix-II for models). \
\
MISSION SUPPORT UNIT

The Royall Netherlands Embassy is asslstlnq the water

conservation mission through its Mission Support Unit (MSU)
activities. The areas of assistance include:
• Andhra Pradesh Water Vision
• Capacity Building in Local Water Resource Management
• Information and Innovation Management
• R&D in Water Policy

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Conservation ofWater: 39
Efforts by the State Government

.• Review of Legal Framework

URBAN WATER CONSERVATION

• This includes evolving a strategy for promotingwater conservation
in urban areas through active people's participation and through
administrative measures like metering, pricing, reducing
distribution I leakage losses unaccounted for water etc.

RIVER REVIVAL APPROACH

• Construction of series of check dams across the river along the
river course.
• River revival approach involves adoption of river revival I
rejuvenation I regeneration approach to effective water
conservation, utilization and overall development. Under this
approach WCM has taken up the case of river Swarnamukhi on
pilot basis.

AWARENESSBUILDING AND PEOPLE'SPARTICIPATION

• . Awareness Building Measures
• Motivation
• Involvement of SHGs in Neeru-Meeru
• Social Audit Board
• Other Measures
Awareness Building Measures
Water Conservation and Utilization Committees at district,
municipal, mandaI and village levels are conducting awareness
campaigns and to motivate the local communities to execute the
activities.
Eight posters on the implementation of Neeru-Meeru
Programme were designed with a view to bring more awareness
among stakeholders on water conservation and its sustainable
utilization. These posters were displayed in 23000 Gram Panchayats

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

40 NEERU-MEERU

and 110 Municipalities during Janmabhoomi grama sabhas to

propagate the concept and objective of Neeru-Meeru.
• A multimedia campaign will be launched to disseminate the key
messages of Neeru-Meeru.
• Innovative water management practices will be beamed through
mass Medi~.
• Kalajathas will be organised for spreading the message of Neeru-
Meeru.
• Pamphlets, posters etc. on Neeru-Meeru to be distributed.
• Hoardings at key places in metro cities and district headquarters.
• Messages on RTC buses connecting to interior villages.
• Newsletter in Telugu and English highlighting the success stories
;-.

of rainwater harvesting.
• Exposure visits and Jala Yatras are also taken up for the user
groups in order to replicate successful practices.
The Water Conservation Mission has started "NEERU-
MEERU", a Newsletter,to outreach and spread the message of water
conservation and management.
Motivation
To ensure that every village is motivated about the need of
water conservation, it is proposed to take up at least one Neeru-
Meeru work in uncovered Gram Panchayats where the regular
departmentalworks are not taken up. In such Gram panchayats.while
taking up the works priority will be given for.
• Closing of tank breaches
• Supply / feeder channels
• Desilting of tanks
• Gabion structures
• Gully control works
• Small percolation tanks

-----Or.M.C.RH.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 41
Efforts by the State Government

• Drinking water ponds

• Recharge structures near drinking water sources etc.

Jalamitra Awards
• The Government have instituted Jalamitra Awards at State and
DistrictJevel to recognize good work being done in areas of water
conservation and its management.
• These awards will be presented every year on the World Water
Day, i.e., on 22nd March. The awards for year 2002 are presented
on 22nd March, 2003.

Jalachaitanyam
The Water Conservation Mission has been playing a pro-active
role in the areas of water conservation and management in the state
for the-past two years and this has resulted in creation of additional
storage capacity all over the state. However, on account of failure of
monsoon for three consecutive years, groundwater recharge was
not possible and on.account of continued drawal, water levels have
depleted alarmingly. Government had therefore decided to launch a
massive campaign to enhance people's awareness on water
conservation and management in all the villages in the state. This
programme which was named 'Jalachaitanyam' was conducted from
5th to 14th April, 2003 in all the villages on campaign mode and on
every day a specific theme was highlighted for dlssusslon as shown
below.
The domestic needs of growing population and their food
security; increased economic activity and related improved standards
ofliving will lead to increased conflicts over the limited available fresh
water resources. ltls more so when the sta!e is reeling under severe
drought. It is the time now to engage people in a meaningful
discussion, introspection on critical issue of water.
In this regard, Jalachaitanyam campaign is launched on March
22nd on the occasion of World Water Day. It is expected that this

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 42 NEERU - MEERU

campaign will bring about people's awareness on critical issues

relating to water conservation and management is enhanced and
people realized the urgency for action and realized active participation
in planning and execution of decision towards water conservation
and management.
Campaign Strategy:

• The people in the rural and urban areas wUI be provided with
information to trigger thinking and discussion on water.
• Sharing of knowledge on water related issues in a way
understandable to people through various people friendly medium
of communication to sensitize people.
• Well trained village level mandai level teams to initiate and sustain
the discussions and also to facilitate action at village level.
• Demonstration of urgency for action by haying every functionary
of the government participate in the campaign.
• Facilitation support to people to develop water budget for each
village.
• Expose the people to best practices in water utilization.
Chaturvidha Jalaprakriya (Four Waters Concept)

ChaturVidhaJalaprakriya 'Four Waters Concept' is a technical

manual written in Telugu by Sri T. HanumanthaRao,former Engineer-
in-Chief, Irrigation. It is an innovative participatory technology in
watershed development.. The Hon'ble Chief Minister released this
book on World Water Day on 22nd March, 2003 at a function organized
for launching for Jalachaitanyam at Shilpa Kala Vedika, Hyderabad.
The technology is aimed at maximizing the benefits of the
four waters t.e., Rainwater, Soil moisture, Groundwater and Surface
Water. This technology is developed by integrating proven aspects
pertaining to five scientific disciplines namely agriculture, soil
conservation, groundwater, surface water and geo-engineering. This
book is made available to all gram panchayats in the state. The

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----~
 Conservation of Water: 43
Efforts by the State Government

advantage of this technology is that with the same cost, it is possible

to increase benefits three times more and increase the recharge to
groundwater ten times more than earlier. Cost effective works and
other activities (totaling 14) have been introduced in this concept.
There is no usage of cement in any of the works and the farmers can
themselves execute the works.
Involvement of SHGs in Neeru-Meeru
• All watershed committees to meet and decide the programme
based on local priorities.
• Water Users Associations (WUAs) and Ayacutdars Committee to
finalize the works programme for improving the canals / tanks
and for ensuring better distribution of water during the next crop
season.
• Vana Samrakshana Samithis (VSSs) to also finalise the soil and
water conservation activities in their areas of operation.
• Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) to be actively associated in all
Neeru-Meeru processes.
Social Audit Board

To bring in transparencyin executionof works and water audited

at the village level a Social Audit Board is prescribed. This will contain
all types of works, which are executed by the different departments.
This Social Audit Board also contains village level water audit account
details also. It shall be poster of size O.Sx1m so that painting cost
and periodical updation will not be a problem. The poster can be
updated manually using empty posters and display it at various
meeting places in villages periodically. (Please see Appendix-III for
Social Audit Board proforma)
Other Measures

• Informationdissemination - Informationon water conservation and

management is gathered and disseminated among departments,
agencies and stakeholders.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
44 NEERU - MEERU

• Technology Linkages - Water Conservation Mission facilitates

linkages between research institutions and field agencies for
development of appropriate cost-effective technologies, field
demonstration and transfer to stake holders.
• Visits to be organized for watershed functionaries, VSS and other
Self-Help Group members to other villages for exposure to best
practices.
• The Visit of the people from uncovered Gram Panchayats to be
organized to watersheds/other successful works taken up under
Neeru-Meeru for their motivation.
• Conventions to be organized for different stakeholders of Neeru-
Meeru at various levels (village/mandal/division/districts).
• In all the institutions - Educational, Research, Industries,
Government offices, Agricultural Farms (both government and
private) water conservation activities to be implemented.
• In individual houses - water harvesting pits and plantations to be
taken up on priority.
• Local bodies like Municipalities, Gram Panchayats, Mandai
Parishads to be involved in the entire programme for ensuring
better results.
• Students to be sensitized by including water conservation and
management as part of the curriculum.
, I

ACTIVITIES OF WATER CONSERVATION MISSION

Trenching
• Continuous Contour Trenching (CCT)
• Staggered Trenching
• Bunding
Tanks
• Desiltation of Existing Tanks
• Restoration of Tanks

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 45
Efforts by the State Government

• P~rcolation Tanks
• Silt Application
• Removal of,Tank Encroachments
Ponds
• Sunken Ponds
• Dugout Ponds.
• Farm Ponds
Dams
• Rock Fill Dams
• Check Dams
• Subsurface Dams
Others
.• Soak Pits
• Breach Closures
• Feeder Channels
• Others
• Diversion Weirs
• Recharge through Dried-up Open Wells
• Gabian Structures
ACHIEVEMENT OF NEERU-MEERU - AT A GLANCE
Achievement
Phases Duration Physical Volume Financial
(in Numbers) (in Lakh (Rs.in
Cu.Mtrs)* Lakhs)*
Phase-I 01.04.2000 to 423,976 801.42 19,017.94
31.10.2000
Phase-II 01.11.2000 to 387,751 1,172.07 16,855.53
30.04.2001

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-------

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Conservation of Water; 47
Efforts by the State Government

PURPOSE:
• Safe disposal of water discharge of sloped lands.
• To reduce soil erosion along the slopes.
• . To increase the moisture holding capacity of soil.

SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Suitable for areas with low rainfall.

• Can be used in medium rainfall areas with adequate
provision for disposal of excess water.
• The CCT can be used in heavy rainfall areas on the foothill
supported by staggered trenching on the upstream sides.
SUGGESTED DESIGN:
• Locate the area on the map and assess the slope
• Staggered trenches Should be taken up on the upstream
side of area
• The bottom width of trench should be 1 m.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
48 NEERU-MEERU

• Side slopes for general soil should be 1:1 and 0.5:1 in

hard soils.
• The excavated material should be pfaced on the down
stream with a clear beam of 1 m.
• The excess water from the trench should be passed
through a stone check.
• The excess water may be drained to a mini percolation
pond located downstream.

MAINTENANCE:
• Care should be taken to align the contour.
• If the trench does not follow the contour, there are chances
of breaches.

Estimates included
The estimate for CCTs involve the earthwork quantities for
the trench, surplus arrangement through stone checks, cost of mini
percolation pond in the down stream.

SKETCH FOR BUILDING OF CONTINUOUS CONTOUR

TRENCHES

1"- - .. .r.,_.
t ,. ....
j ....

-_ ...
_-j ..
! Erol(II1

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 49
Efforts by the State Government

CONTOUR BUND

Contour bund is a narrow trapezoidal embankment (bund)

on contours to impound runoff water behind them so that all the
impounded water is absorbed gradually into the soil profile for crop
use..
Achievements
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 10026 17.89 66.69
Phase-II 10421 274.75
265.75
7490.
5084.22

PURPOSE:

• To serve as a soil conservation measure.

• To act as a water harvesting measure.
SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Low rainfall areas

• Permeable soils.
• Not recommended for soils with poor internal drainage.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of AndhraPradesh=----
Institute
50 NEERU - MEERU

SUGGESTED DESIGN:
The design of a contour bund involves the determination of
the spacing between the bunds, the cross sectional elements of the
bund and the type and dimensions of the surplus system.
• Spacing between bunds is commonly expressed in terms of the
vertical interval (V.I) which is defined as the difference in elevation
between two similar points on two consecutive bunds.
• The basic principle involved in fixing the spacing between two
bunds is to keep the velocity of runoff below the critical value,
which creates scour.
The governing factors for bund height are:

• Depth of water to 'be Impounded

• Design depth
,
of flow over the weir

• Free board

• Vertical i~terval
Dependence on land owners for the maintenance
I
• The side slope of bund is based on soil type.
• The minimum cross-section of bund should be 0.5 sq.rn
• Horizontal interval (H.I) = V.I*100/S
• Length of contour bund per ha = 100*SN.1
• . Areas lost (sq.m) due to bunding I ha = 1OO*SN.I..b Where,
b = base width of contour bund
• Total Earth work / ha ::; 1.3*1OO*S*(areaof cross-section of
bund)N.1

GUIDELINES FOR EXECUTION:

• Survey the area and calculate the slope of the land
• Decide the location of the waste weirs depending upon the
location of the waterway. If waterway.is not available, then

of Andhra
-.....----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 51
Efforts by the State Government

plan for the waterway.

• Locate the contours on the field with the help of flexible lJI-
tube/A-frame/Oumpy level.
• The bunds can be deviated from true contour by about 10%
• Providea beamof about 0;60 m betweenthe bund and burrow
pit.
• The burrow pit is generally taken on the upstream side of the
bund.
• Broadcast pasture seeds on the bund to give strength.
• The waste weir can be grassed one or stone apron and should
be at least 0.15 m below the level of the bund.

Estimates include
• Earthwork excavation.
• Provision of waste weir.
• Provision for pasture seed.

TANKS
DESILTING OF TANK
Excavation and transportation of silt deposited in the tanks to
increase the percolation rate and increase the capacity of tanks.
Achievements
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 6894 255.36 4163.10
Phase-II 1801 60.99 1282.52
Phase-III 4666 236.88 3526.02
Phase-IV 7143 598.167 7520.360
Phase-V 4107 457.12 5084.22
Total 27283 1725.061 24277.411

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
52 NEERU - MEERU

PURPOSE:
• To increase the percolation rate.
• To decrease the evaporation from water surface of tank.
• To restore the tank.
• To increase the live storage which is affected by siltation.
SUITABLE LOCATION:
• In the tank bed.
• Parallel to bund at a distance of 5H (H is height of bund).
SUGGESTED DESIGN:

• The area to be dug should be marked parallel to the bund at a

distance of 5H.

• The depth of trench should be 0.5 H.

• Bottom width of trench should be 1.0 m.

• The side slopes should bet.t or 0.5:1 depending on soil type.

• The sitt i's should be removed from the trench once it is half
filled.

• Even if the trench is filled up, it can facilitate percolation through

the sides.

• The trench may be filled up with stones if funds are available.

• The desilted material from the trench can be used by farmers or

it can be spread on the bund. This will make profuse growth of

---- ..... Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Or.M.C.R.H.R.O
Conservation of Water: 53
Efforts by the State Government

grass on the bund.

CARE:
• Desilting should not be done in dead storage area.
• Desilting activity should not be taken up near the bund.
• Desilting should be taken up after exploring all other possibilities
of improving the ground water.
RESTORATION OF TANKS
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 5234 17.04 405.16
Phase-II 2136 38.36 1720.17,
Phase-III 2902 106.45 5345.67
Phase-IV 10945 943.556 12596.503
Phase- V 4012 823.54 8175.55
Total 24060 2022.691 31341.722

PER(:OLATION TANK
Percolationtank is an earthen embankmentto store the runoff
for increasing the recharge into ground water

Achievements
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 3731 84.65 1726.12
Phase-II 2654 109.04 1895.35
Phase-III 2344 85.94 1383.96
Phase-IV 9777 575.30 6732.63
Phase-V 9996 577.58 5326.16
Total 28502 1432.51 17064.22

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
54 NEERU-MEERU

Mini-PercolationTanks (MPT)constructionclose to the ridges,

across the first order streams does not necessitate to provide key
trenches or a cut of walls for the earthen bund which is formed by soil
obtained from borrow pits within the submergence area. The spilling
arrangement can be provided with low cost rough stone paved by
wash. The average cost per such structure should not exceed
Rs.8000/-.
Thousands of Mini Percolation Tanks were constructed in
Medak, Mahaboobnagar, Nalgonda and Chittoor districts. This is a
highly cost effective structure. Even with one good rain the recharge
was fixed to be very good. Farmers in Medak district expressed that
when this along with other works were implemented,water resources
were available during the dry season in spite of the year 2002 being
the drought year (36% annual rainfall).
PURPOSE:

• To store runoff water in sloping lands.

• To increase the recharge.
• To increase the irrigated area.
SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Valley that is narrow and deep at the site and broadens into a
large basin upstream
• Soil permits,percolation.
• Saucer shaped site with maximum storage capacity with least
investment.
• Having existing wells and scope for new wells.

SUGGESTED'DESIGN:

• Locate the site on the map.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 55
Efforts by the State Government

• Select spillway location.

• Stakeout proposed centre line.
• Investigate bottom of tank and proposed burrow pit for soil type.
• Determine watershed area from maps.
• Calculate the runoff.
• Determine the dimensions of spillway.
• Decide the top width and height of embankment.
• Assume side slopes based on soil type.
• Compute the earthwork for embankment and core walls.
• Prepare topographic map of reservoir and calculate storage.
• Remove all the vegetation and loose soil.
• Plough along the stake line to have maximum bondage.
• Provide core wall (min.2 feet) to prevent damage to the tank
through seepage.
• Locate burrow pit on the upstream side of embankment, if soil
permits, to reduce the cost.
• Build the embankment in thin layers with sufficient compaction by
adding Water.
• Provide protection to the slopes by revetment / rip rap .
• Provide sufficient free board.
• Plant suitable vegetation on the embankment.
Estimates included

• Earthwork for core wall and main embankment

• Site clearance.
•
• Spillway.
• Revetment / rip rap.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
56 NEERU - MEERU

SKETCHFOR BUILDING OF PERCOLATION TANK

eROS! SECT 10 H

I
\,
UW "N

Sill rA"","
""lION
11-11 __ +--_~

If------- Il .. ------~
PLAN

......."', .."noJ pnNO IH URSAI!! "'RE~,_(Q!'E ~ 10 ~QI

TANKS
REMOVAL'OF TANK ENCROACHMENTS Planned Achieved
53016 34811

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 (4sapeJd eJ4pu\f jO
'~I\O~ '~uaw~edaa uOI~e6IJJI
JOUIW- re~ l~e~e4:>ued-:a:>Jnos)

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LS : JaJeMJO UO!JeAJasuo~
 58 NEERU - MEERU

PONDS
" SUNKEN PITS
Small water harvesting structures sunk in the gullies wherein
some perennial flow of water exists for considerable period of time.

Achievements

Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rsin
Phase-I 3737 5.57 77.42
836 6 .66
Phase-III 111 1.03 17.07
Phase-IV 10.72 187.78
75
51.77 687.68

.PURPOSE:
• To collect and store water at an economic rate than other
water harvesting structures:
• The water available in the ponds is useful for recharging the
groundwater.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 59
Efforts by the State Government

• Address the needs of drinking water of the cattle, if provided

in community lands / pasture lands.
SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Gullies upto a maximum depth of 2m.

• In the upper reaches of the gully.
• Avoid large gullies with depth of more than 2m.
• Should be provided in series to the gully to have better effect
on ground water recharge.
SUGGESTED DESIGN:

• Pond will generally be of square shape and width of the gully

is being taken as side of the square.
• Collect the spoils and deposit across the gully as an
embankment.
• Decide the dimensions of the embankment (trapezoidal
shape) based on soil.
• Provide a 2m beam between pond and embankment so that
the spoils will not fall into the pond and reduce the capacity.
• Remove vegetation on the site of embankment and sprinkle
with water for effective bonding.
• Deposit the soil in thin layers (6 inches) and ram it properly.
• Strengthen one side of the bank and provide surplus
arrangement (natural or revetment) on the other bank for
disposal of excess water during floods.
• Limit the depth to 2m or even 1m (when hard stratum occurs
. at that depth).
• Fix the side slopes of the pond as 1:1 in clay/heavy soils,
1.5:1 in mixed soils and 2:1 for light soils.
• The inlet end of the pond is flatter with a side slope of 5:1 or
more so that scouring is avoided.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
60 NEERU-MEERU

• Establish suitable vegetation on embankment.

• Stone size should be uniform (O.225mto O.3m).
Estimates included

• Earthwork
• Stone revetment
• Vegetative protection measures

SUNKEN PIT

t
I ,

r~l·'"

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 09'9Z£ VO'Sl ~6Lv l-ase4d
(S4>tel U! s~)
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pue J46!IUnSoi pasodxa S!eaJe ssal 'pau6!sap eq JOUpeeu ~eMlI!ds
e 4~!4M JOJlaAal punord MOlaq a6eJoJs ap!AoJd oi J!d dssp V

SCNOd W~V.:l
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~9 : J9jeM 10 UOljeNasuo:)
62 NEERU - MEERU

PURPOSE:
• To provide drinking water to livestock and human beings in arid
areas.
• To provide water storage for life saving irrigation in a limited area.

SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Natural depressions are the best sites for dugouts.

• Slope of the area should be less than4%.
• Flat areas where water can be collected and impounded below
the surface of the ground.
• AVOID:
• Very hard soils
• Porous soils
• Soils with underlying limestone-containing crevices etc.

SUGGESTED DESIGN:

• Decide the shape.

• Decide the size of the pond depending on
• The water needs (give additional leeway of 50-100% for losses
through evaporation and seepage)
• The extent of area draining into the pond,
• The extent of area that could be put under the pond and bund
• The amount of money considered appropriate to invest
I
• The nature and amount of rainfall, soil type and expected runoff
into the pond.
• Fix the side slope based on soil type, provide flatter slope of 4:1
on inlet side.
• Determine the permissibledepth of the pond for ease in excavation
and better retention of water.
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 63
Efforts b~ tl'ie State Government

• Calculate minimum length and width on trial and error basis to

obtain the required capacity of the proposed pond.
• Calculate the volume of pond: V = «A+4B+C)*D) / 6
Where, A = Area at the top
B = Area at the middle
C = Area at the Bottom
D = Depth
• Provide sufficient size of slit trap on the inlet side
SKETCH FOR BUILDING OF DUGOUT FARM PONDS

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
64 NEERU - MEEFru

DAMS
ROCK FILL DAM (RFD)
An embankment constructed across a waterway using
variable sizes of stones. It is a permeablestructure of semi-permanent
nature.

·Fin.
PRy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 73468 37.49 1444.81
Phase-II 107066 59.56 1951.31
Phase-III 80968 33.09 1499.92
Phase-IV 121615 81.595 2867.213
Phase-V 56654 68.23 1467.01
Total 455344 294.209 10208.732

PURPOSE:

• For gully control - to slow down the velocity of runoff and

to allow settlement of sediment before it leaves for the
downstream reach.
• Reclamation of broad and shallow gullies for agricultural
purpose.
• To stabilize active gullies by encouraging vegetative
growth by creating favourable moisture situation with
impounding water.

SUITABLE LOCATION:

• Where loose boulders are cheaply and locally available.

• Middle reaches of gully (Gullies are not wider than 10m)
• Where gully banks are firm.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Conservation of Water: 65
Efforts by the State Government

SUGGESTED DESIGN:

• Locate the structure as per the gradient.

• Calculate the expected runoff at the site.
• Calculate the head of flow.
• Decide the height depending upon the gully depth
• Calculate the top width of the dam as half the height of
the dam or assure 0.50m.
• Assume upstream side slope 0.5: 1 or 1: 1 and
downstream side slope as 1.5:1 or 2:1.
• Depth of the foundation can be 0.45 to 0.6 m.
• Fix the length of the apron between 0.9 and 1.0 m
• Size of the retaining wall to range between 0.45 and
0.60m.
• Head wall extension I core wall to be 1 m on both sides.
• Provide side revetment to a height of head of flow and
free board.
• Stone size to be uniform (0.225m to 0.3m).
GUIDELINES FOR EXECUTION:

• Clear vegetation from the site.

• Mark out the structure.
• . Carry out the earthwork and place the spoils on the
upstream side.
• Pack the stones simultaneously from all sides.
• The height of the structure may be limited to 1 m.
• The upstream of the structure should be backed up with
the soil of the foundation.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
66 NEERU-MEERU

• The level difference between the bottom of the upstream

structure and the top of down stream structure should be
with 1% gradient.
• The location of the structure should be strategic in the
sense that sites with the narrow width and strong banks
should be considered.
• The freeboard should be based on the peak rate of runoff
subjected to a minimum of 0.6 m.
• Top width of structureshould be half of its height subjected
to a minimum of 0.5 m.
• The core walls are to be extended to 0.6 m inside the
gully banks on either sides.
• Foundation.
• Main structure, core wall.
• Red soils - 0.3 m
• Black Soils - 0.45 m
• Aprons (Both Soils) - 0.3 m
• Retaining wall (Both soils) - 0.6 m

Estimates included
• Clearing the site.
• Earth work for foundation, apron, retaining wall, core wall,
etc..
• Stone work.

--:,-~--Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh---,.----
r:
Conservation ofWater: 67
Effortsby theStateGovernment

SKETCHFOR BUILDING OF ROCKFILLDAM

DAMS
CHECK DAMS
Engineering structures constructed across the channels for
facilitating runoff water to flow through a weir over an apron, in which
energy of the water is dissipated. It is not a favourable structure,
where temporary spillwaystorage is neededto obtain a large reduction
in discharge..

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

68 NEERU - MEERU

Achievements
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 5795 81.10 2665.43
Phase-II 4860 72
Phase-III 3673 100.19 2684.05
Phase-IV 7156 359.34 6395.90
Phase-V 11135.75
Total 31006 1363.23 25956.85

PURPOSE:

• To modify the bed gradients in gully.

• To store a part of surface runoff behind so that it can be
used for life saving irrigation.
• To augment the water resources in nearby wells.
• To control gully erosion.
• Protection of the outlet of grassed waterways.
SUITABLE LOCATION:

• For drops upto 3m.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 69
Efforts by the State Government

• At narrow cross-sections in order to cut down the overall

construction cost.
• Good foundation conditions for the safety of the structure.
• Strong embankments are available.
• Gully should be straight on the upstream side for about
100 m.
• Dimensions of head wall (top and base width).
• Dimensions of head wall extension.
• . Apron dimensions..
• Sidewall dimensions.
• Retaining wall dimensions.
• Loose apron dimensions.
GUIDELINES FOR EXECUTION:

• Bush clearance, if any.

• Mark the area as per dimensions.
• Earthwork excavation.
• Place the concrete.
• Construction of all walls to start at the same time so as to
have bond.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
70 NEERU - MEERU

SKETCH FOR BUILT OF ROCKFILL DAM

... ..
0
::r

,~
i
~~~! ==\=-=====1
, I 3~ I
l 31
I Z
~
Q.
<C
I ;r:; I
\ I ... _....L - ---t
1--_-=.s=[.D=C_t.·A~

-----Dr.M.C;R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 71
Efforts by the State Government

DAMS

t
SUB-SURFACE DYKES

Planned Achieved j
Sub-Surface dam is a useful structure in storing groundwater
by creating a sanctuary on the upstream side, preventing its draining
to the downstream side. The sub-surface dam is to be constructed
up to the imperious zone of clay or hard sheet rock. The dam will
have to be extended on the flank for sufficient length to ensure that
the groundwater may not out flame the structure and flow towards .
downstream side. This acts as a cut off wall buried in the riverbed.
Clay wall should be covered' on all sides with HOPE film.

In revival of Swarna Mukhi river in Chittoor district number of

such structures are taken up.
OTHERS
SOAK PITS I RECHARGE PIT I RECHARGE TRENCH

It is a pit or trench to facilitate recharge of ground water. It is-

being filled up in layers of different sizes of hard broken stone and
sand and works as a slow sand filter.
Soak pits are 2 types..
• Soak pits in private house~

-----Dr:M.C.R.H.R.DInstituteof AndhraPradesh-------
72 NEERU-MEERU

• Soak pits in public places

PURPOSE:
• To improve the recharge in urban areas.
• To facilitate ·groundwater development.

SUITABLE LOCATION:
• In all the houses in urban areas including schools,
playgrounds, factories, road sides, open areas

SUGGESTED DESIGN:
• Locate the place where the pit is planned, depending upon
the slope, sewer arrangements etc.
• Fix the dimensions of the pit depending on the area
contributing water to the pit.
• The pit is dug and filled with graded filter material comprising
of big size metal or stone in the bottom layer, covered by
small size metal and then by sand.
• Depth and width of the pit shall be 1m and 0.8 m respectively
with the length depending on the area contributing water to
the pit
• To retain the vertical sides of the pit rough stone dry rubble
packing may be provided for all the four sides.
• The pit may be covered with perforated RC jally.
• A trench of 2 m length is sufficient for every 100 sq m of flat
area.
• The public soak pits are with dimensions of 22 m X22mXO.3m
for an area of 10 ha.
• Over flowing water from these public pits will have to be
collected and led to the natural drains and stream courses.

-----Dr.M.C.R.HRD Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 73
Efforts by the State Government

Estimates included
• The estimate for the pit involves digging of the pit, Rubble
stonewall for the sides, gradation material and cost of RC
Jally.

SKETCH FOR BUILDING OF SOAK PIT

f'1.LltUt> WIoIj;;R

BREACH CLOSURES
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Iem)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 535 30.60 449.96
Phase-II 606 11.62 365.37
Phase-III 1286 39.08 989.20
Phase-IV 4015 281.73 1787.52
Phase-V 651 323.56 2080.07
Total 7093 686.59 5672.12
Gully sunken pits are good alternative for rock fill dams and
serve twin purpose of erosion control in gullys as well as increasing
the recharge. These pits should be constructed starting from foot of
the hill or end of the steep slopes. At the starting point of gully pits a
mini-percolation tank should be constructed. As a result of this the
base flow increases; soil erosion in gullys reduced on account of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
74 NEERU - MEERU .

storage created in gullys and reduction flow velocity.

+ Sun·kenpits are low cost water harvesting structures at a cost of
Rs.250-Rs.800.
+ Treatment of gullies through series of sunken pits, agave
plantations and tree plantation in slopes.
+ Allows deeper percolation of water for groundwater recharge and
check soil erosion.
+ Creation of employment to the rural poor and payment in the
form of rice (Food For Work - FFW).
+ Target of 1,02,099 pits proposed and so far completed 53,736
creating additional volume of 3,33,432.61 cum.
.+ Total expected recharge 25.51 Icm.

FEEDER CHANNELS
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 1778 2.7 49.2
Phase-II 39799 5.99 173.33
Phase-III 107241 18.99. 375.37
Phase-IV 29361 380.34 3603.55
Phase-V 1422 178.01 1624.11
Total 179601 586.034 5825.557
Achievements
Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 11 0.99 13.11
Phase-II 7946 0.28 3.12
Phase-III 34389 30.56 561.76
Phase-IV 20576 241.62 3093.98
Phase-V 15071 137.96 936.61
Total 77993 411.407 4608.575

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh--------

Conservation of Water: 75
Efforts by the State Government

RECHARGETHROUGH DRIED UP WELLS

[~ P8_1:_~_:_:d ~I_. A_~_h_~_;_;_d

Artificial Groundwater Recharge through diversion of run-off
~~J
water into the dried up dug wells in agricultural lands of drought
prone areas.*
Abstract

A large quantity of the rainwater goes into the sea in the

form of run-off water and along with the run-off water of fertile soil is
also lost. As a means of conservation of soil and moisture in the
watershed project areas lot of structures like check dams, Percolation
tanks, etc., are built to create space for harvesting of run-off water
and thereby groundwater recharge. The simplest and cost effective
way of groundwater recharge, is possible by diverting the farm run-
off water into the dried up dug well through a silt trap which is
connected with a diversion drain on one side and a pipe connecting
into the wel.1on the other side. By doing this run-off water is retained
in ones own farm and the recharge is faster as in deeper layers of
aquifer.
Introduction

The dependency on the surface and groundwater resources

is becoming uncertain. The groundwater table is falling down due to
mining of the water resources l.e., pumping is not consistent with the
annual recharge rate of aquifer which results in a negative water
balance and lowering of the water table, sometimes to the extent of
complete drying up and non-functioning of wells. In the coastal areas
over withdrawal of groundwater resulted in inflow of saline seawater
and has impaired
. the groundwater quality affecting crop
.
productivity.
Moreoverdecliningwater table increasesthe pumping energy
needed to produce the same irrigation service. -Alrnost 1/3 of India's

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-------
76 NEERU- MEERU

electricity production currently devoted to pumping groundwater and

massive energy shortage affecting all sectors, the energy related
economic cost of falling water table could be huge.
Mahaboobnagar district reeling under frequent drought
situation due to scanty and erratic rainfall of 600 mm, there is a need
to conserve each and every drop of water by all means. Diversion
drains for diverting field run-off i~O dried up dug wells may be one
such idea depending upon site situation.
The recharge of groundwater through dried up dug wells is
the fastest means of recharge and because of the low cost, large
number of stakeholders can adopt this technique. Many wells in the
villages are dried up and the number varies from 10 to 500. And
each of them can hold water equivalent to a check dam which is
constructed with an investment of Rs.1.00 lakh and the cost involved
for this is only RS.500 approximately. Therefore, the large-scale
recharge through dried up wells can make entire run-off retained in
the village itself and make it water self-sufficient.

Potential in Mahaboobnagar District

Mahaboobnagar district, the well population upto 1993-94
was 1,01,618 and then onwards, the bore well culture has began,
the number of which was 21,540 upto 1993-94 has gone up to
1,46,665 upto the year 2000 and the functioning well population is
also declined as they were getting dried up. And now there are
approximately more than 70,000 dried up open wells in the district.
These 70,000 dried up open wells can be converted into
recharged structures by diverting farm run-off and has roughly 350
lakh cubic metres of storage volume for one time filling and the cost
involved is relatively less, compared to any other water harvesting
structure. In total even if three fillings on an average is considered it
shall lead to recharge of minimum 3 TMC of water into ground, which,
can irrigate minimum 30000 acres.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Conservation of Water: 77
Efforts by the State Government

Design
In general the run-off from one hectare area against 60 mm
rainfall is sufficient to fill a dried up well of a volume 500 cu.mts.
capacity. The run-off from the farm, going outside should be diverted
towards well with a diversion channelof 30 cms, cross section. Length
depends on the field situation. At the end of diversion drain at distance
of 5 mts. from the well, a circulars silt trap of one metre depth; Yzmtr.
bottom diameter; 2Yzmtr. top diameter should be dug. From this silt
trap 6 mtr. length pipe of 10 cms diameter should be connected to
the well with a projection of at least half metre into the well. This pipe
should be placed 2 ft. below ground level. Stone pitching is provided
at inlet drain area in silt trap. Care should be taken that the pipe is
placed in a lower position than diversion drain connected to silt trap.
Provision to let out excess water coming into the silt trap and the well
should be provided.

Cost
Cost involves only earthwork for diversion channel silt trap
and fixing of pipe and stone revetment work for inlet drain areas and
cost of the pipe. The entire work can be completed with. three
mandays. The total cost varies from Rs.500/- and above basing on
the length of the diversion channel. The money available under the
watershed programme is utilized for the purpose.
Execution
Demonstrations for taking up the work are organized in all
the watershed villages involving watershed committee members.
Large-scale participation is mobilized involvingall the self-help groups
(SHGs) at the village level. Exposure visits are organized to the
villages where farmers have taken up the works on large-scale. In
non-watershed villages, Agriculture Department has mobilized for
execution. During the year 2001-2002 about 5000 dried up wells in
200 villages are converted into recharge structures in the year 2002-

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
78 NEERU - MEERU

03 about 15000dried up wells are converted into recharge structures.

Recharge

The run-off water from the farm through diversion channel

comes into the silt trap and simultaneously water goes into the well
through a connected pipe. Since, inlet pipe is lower than diversion
channel there is a little scope for obstruction of flow.
Where bore wells are situatednearby the dried up dug wells,
the recharge achieved from above works will sustain the bore wells
yields. In certain cases, the yields from the bore wells have increased
and because of which additional irrigated area has developed. The
evaporation loses are less compared to check dams and percolation
tanks as water dissipation into groundwater is faster and area of water
spread is compact. The farmer can retain run-off as well as silt in his
own farm. Thus fulfilling the larger in objective of watershed
development programme. Decrease in power consumption for
groundwater mining because of rise in groundwater table. Immediate
involvement of all the dried up well owners as stakeholders into
watershed development programmes. Where water recharge is not
taking place it lis being pumped to grow vegetables and also water is
utilized for spraying pesticides avoiding long distances to procure
water by engaging bullock cart and drums.
It is a simplest way of conserving water and soil for the farmer
and with less cost more water is recharged and the water recharged
by this method shall be bringing an additional ayacut of minimum
half acre under each well.
Impact Studies

The impact analysis studies are conducted involving

Groundwater Department in four villages in Mahaboobnagar District,
all together a total of 117 dried up dug wells are provided diversion
channels with the cost of RS.81 ;9001- in these four villages. Due to
execution of above scheme 62,737 cu.mts, of space has created

-------Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of AndhraPradesh- ........

Institute ---
 Conservation of Water: 79
. Efforts by the State Govemment

and total volume of 77,413 cu.mts. waterhas been percolated to the

dried up aquifer. The average cost incurred for cubic meter of water
to dissipate into the aquifer is Rs.1.05. Last shall be much less if we
calculate recharge for whole water years (June-May). The dug wells
converted as recharged structures can be categorized in two types
. i.e., (1) wells with aquifer having weathered granite followed by
fractured/jointed granite and (2) wells with limited thickness of
weathered granite followed by shallow basement. .The first category
will have the high percolation capacity and first filling will be dissipated
within one or two days, and second filling will take 8 to 10 days to
dissipate, as the aquifer is already saturated. The second category
wells will take 2 to 3 days for first filling dissipation taken 10 to 15
days for second filling dissipation and shallow basement wells will be
over flowing as the aquifer will not be in a position to percolate any
more.
As the result of the above activity there is buildup in
groundwater levels and yields of the near by borewells have increased
from 500 gph to 1200 gph. The dried up bore wells are rejuvenated
and functioning.
The results are found to be effective and innovative for
recharging the groundwater. There is overwhelming response to this
idea especially from the farmers. .l.arqe-scale acceptability of this
technique by the farmers especially in watershed villages led to
increased participation in the watershed development programme
and .increased stakehold
. in soil and water .conservation in one's own
farm. ·Quickresponse from farmers ied to large-scale coverage before
rains and helped in huge quantity of water harvest.
Conclusio.ris
There are severallakhs of dried up open wells, which can be
converted into recharge structures by the simple technique. This
shall not only reduce energy consumption for mining groundwater
but also assures drinking water availability in the villages. More

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R,O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh---- .....
80 NEERU - MEERU

irrigation area is possible and large-scale awareness generation

among people to conserve soil and moisture in one's own land is
essential.

(* Source:- G. Chandra Sekhar Reddy, Additional Chief Executive

Officer, Water Conservation Mission, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh.)

Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 91598 59.98 2191.52
Phase-II 67990 62.80 1618.22
Phase-III 381350 127.178 5664.428
Phase-IV 261507 360.12 4697.95
Phase-V 359266 339.44 3003.95
Total 1161711 949.516 17176.06

Rain Water Harvesting Structures

Fin.
Phy Nos Vol in (Icm)
(Rs in lakhs)
Phase-I 34172 9.22 967.08
Phase-II 2219 0.41 82.73
Phase-III 348 0.51 25.04
Phase-IV 37245 59.97 975.65
Phase-V 11304 39.52 607.31
Total 85288 109.626 2657.809
Departments Involved - Variou·s Activities Under Neeru-
Meeru
Neeru-Meeru envisages as briefly described earlier to
coordinate and guide the water conservationefforts initiatedby various
departments.
Neeru-Meeru activities taken up by different departments are
aimed at creating more filling space for harvesting rain water which

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Conservation of Water: 81
Efforts by the State Government

contributes to additional ground water recharge.

• Rural Development
• Forest Department
• Minor Irrigation (PR)
\ • Rural Water Supply (PR)
• Municipal Administration
• Endowments
• Minor Irrigation (I & CAD)
• Rural Development
Various activities being carried out under Neeru-Meeru by
different departments are -

• Continuous contour trenching, continuous peripheral contour

trenching and staggered trenching on hill slopes I foot hills of
all categories of lands.
• Gully control works.
• Check dams and percolation tanks.
• Bunding in farmers' fields.
• Farm ponds, sunken ponds, dugout ponds.
• Desilting of tanks.
• Recharge through dried-up open wells.
Forest Department

• Gully control works and contour trenching on hill slopes of

reserved forest areas.
• Check dams and percolation tanks.
Minor Irrigation CPR)

• Breach closures
• Feeder Channels and Supply Channels

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
82 NEERU-MEERU

• Oesilting
• Bund Strengthening

Rural Wat~r Supply (PR)

• Conversion of low yielding bore wells into injection wells
• Conversion of disused dug wells into recharge wells
• Check dams and mini percolation tanks
• Recharge structures near bore wells
Municipal Administration
• Rainwater harvesting structures in the premises of a
residential building
• Rainwater harvesting structures in open places, parks and
play grounds
I
• Rainwater harvesting structures in government I quasi
.government offices and educational institutions
• Runoff breakers near bore wells
• Oesilting of tanks I reservoirs
• Rainwaterharvestingin the premisesof a residentialbuildings

.Endowment Department
• Contour trenching
• Gully control works

Minor Irrigation (I & CAD)

• Restoration of feeder channels to tanks
• Strengthening of bunds
• Revetment works of tank bunds
The Neeru-Meeru Programme is one of a significant State
sponsored popular actions in conserving and using of water. It is an .
important activity for the present and.for. infinite period of time and

-----[)r.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----.-
Conservation of Water: 83
Efforts by the State Government

this programme may be reckoned as a very substantialand significant

component and contribution towards VISION-2020. Achievement in
many of the sectors of development depends upon water as a basic
resource. With inadequacy of water for domestic and agricultural
and industrial purposes, it would be almost impossible and an
Herculean task in realizing VISION-2020.
Conservation of rainwater by several means and measures
las
"-
been there in other states in India at the local community level
and regional level. Andhra Pradesh is the only State in India may be
a pioneer state especially in taking up on massive scale this
programme. On one hand it is education to the farmers, warning
them and creating in them seriousness in conserving water, and
judicious application of water for irrigation and other purposes, taking
to new kind of technology in conserving and using water and at the
same time, encouraging the use of indigenous or the native practices
of water conservation on the part of the farmers.
It is really imaginative and extremely commendable the present
and futuristic package of programmes of development such as,
Vision-2020, Janmabhoomi, Neeru-Meeru, conceived, diligently,
earnestly pursued, guided and administered by the Hon'ble Chief
Minister of Andhra Pradesh Nara Chandrababu Naidu. We may
say, Janmabhoomi and Neeru-Meeru may be considered as
contributory factors to some extent in realizing Vision-2020. Here,
in Neeru-Meeru, we have conception, planning and action.
Though the communities for centuries have been managing
the local water system, the present movement augments,
standardizes and regulates the system of water resource
management. As water is very basic commodityfor existence, people
have taken this programme very seriously.
We have reached such a desperate point where you cannot
delay and postpone. The situation will become more deplorable. It
needs immediate attention. The attention in action and mode of the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
84 NEERU-MEERU

action that is being taken-up now is in the right and desirable direction.
Action programme right from the State level down to the village level
is very clearly delineated. The action flows from apex level to the
ground level and also moves from ground level to the apex level in a
systematic way. Two-way communication.
Neeru-Meeru programme is a concerted, coordinated
community action with stimulus, material and financial assistance
provided by the Government with the spontaneous involvement 0
people's representatives and official machinery in the massive
desilting of lakes and ponds in the 3rd Round of Neeru-Meeru.
Perhaps this is the first time in the history of the State even in India
and of the world wherein simultaneous action on the part of the
thousands of communities all over the state is carried on in order to
conserve rainwater.

(Source:- www.wcmap.org)

----....,.... Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
 5
OPERATIONAL MEANS AND
METHODS IN HARVESTING AND·
CONSERVING RAINWATER
The Groundwater Department of Andhra Pradesh has
provided the following guidelines to harvest and conserve the
rainwater..

I. INTRODUCTION
Groundwater is an important source of water supply
throughout the year. Its use in irrigation, industries, drinking both in
Municipalitiesand rural areas continuesto increase. The dependence
on groundwater is increasing rapidly over the past two decades,
. especially, due to urbanization and industrialization and extensive
use in irrigation/agriculture. Added to the uses above, the scanty
and erratic rainfall is resulting in reduction in storage in surface
reservoirs. The demand is so high that the ground water levels are
getting depleted resulting in drying up of dug wells and bore wells in
several places. Apart from this, sealing of permeable soil zone is .
gradually increasing due to construction activities thereby resulting
in reouctlon of area for percolation of rainwater into the sub-surface
arid increase in surface runoff. Therefore, there is an urgent need to
take up rainwater conservation/harvesting methods to the extent
possible on a large scale which would subsequently help to recharge
and maintain groundwater balance.
Artificial recharge is the process of augmenting the natural
infiltration of rainwater into the underground geological formation by
some artificial methods. As the main source of groundwater recharge
is rainfall, methods are suggested to collect and store run off water
from roof tops of the buildings, road surfaces, municipal parks, school

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh---- .....
 86 NEERU - MEERU

play grounds, open lands and run off water flowing in the natural
streams etc., for artificial recharge. The choice of any particular
method is governed by local geological,. topographical,
geomorphological,structural,hydro-geologicalconditionsand ultimate
water use. The State Groundwater Department suggested s'mple,
low cost rainwater harvesting methods. The departmenthas rendered
the technical guidance necessary for location of rainwater harvesting
structures. In addition, the details of the structures to be implemented
by various organizations, the design and performance, guidelines for
selection of structure, precautions to be followed during construction
are to be adhered strictly.
II. GUIDELINES FOR SELECTION OF RECHARGE STRUCTURES:

• Recharge structures should be designed and constructed in

favourable geological conditions i.e., permeable soils followed
by morrum 'etc. The structures should not be taken up in
impervious clayey soils, rock and steep sloppy areas.
• Recharge structures should be preferred for recharging to
depleted aquifers with deep water table: They should not be
taken up in the shallow water table areas. The depth to water
level should not be less than 5 to 6 m. in post monsoon period.
• Recharge structures should be taken up with unpolluted surface
water only. Adequate precautions should be taken to prevent
entry of polluted urban surface runoff water, sewerage water into
recharge structures.
• Recharge structures should be planned and taken up in areas
experiencingintensivegroundwater developmentfor various uses
and they need not be taken up in areas where groundwater
development is negligible.
• All existing kuntas and tanks in and around the urban ,
agglomeration areas are to be protected against encroachments
and should be converted as percolation ponds and tanks. The

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in
87
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

. polluted drainage and other in.:i\~strialpollutants should not be

allowed to let into these tanks.
• Groundwater recharge through shafts is preferable in steep slope
areas.
III. METHODS OF ARTIFICIAL RECHARGE:
The Groundwater Department has rendered the technical
guidance for location of Rainwater HarvestingStructuresfor collection
of roof top water and road top water through recharge pits/ trenches,
abandoned wells/bore-wells for recharging groundwater. All these
measures are to be taken up in residential zones with restricted open
areas. There still lies scope for harvesting of surface runoff water
flowing in the natural stream before entering the municipal zone.
Structures like gully plugs, rock fill dams, check dams garbion
structures, contourtrenches and contour bundinqetc., are the possible
measures for impounding rainfall runoff water and recharge to
groundwater table.

Category Broad classification Feasible Rainwater

and areas Harvesting Structures

I. Residential zones with Pits, Trenches, Shafts,

restricted open areas dried-up dug wells, bore wells,
(Independent houses, storage sumps, recharge pit,
apartments, etc.,
institutions, etc.,)
II. Large Open areas, Gully Plugs, rock fill dams,
Industries, Cantonment check dams, continuous
Areas contour trenches, staggered
contour trenches & recharge
pits for rainwater harvesting
from roof tops etc.

-----Dr.M.~.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 88 NEERU _MEERU

IV. DESIGN ASPECTSOF RECHARGESTRUCTURES

The number, type and dimensions of recharge structures are

to be designed as per site-specific requirements and availabie water
source. The natural.recharge through soil que to rainfall takes place
first by absorption
I
of the .'water up to its capacity and vertical drainage
from the moist soil. The infiltration capacity of the highly permeable
soils would be around 2 cm/hr. But beneath the soil occurs
disintegrated rocks generally called as morrum. The intake capacity
of water in morrum is found to be very high around 20 cm/hr (as per
test results). This principle is the basis of the design of recharge pits.
Roofwater is diverted intothe rechargepitsfor subsequentpercolation
towards groundwater table. The volume of the voids in the filter media
is taken as one third of the volume of pit and this is designed to
match with collection of rainwater for 20 mm rainfall event. The high
rate of percolation through morrum layers makes it possible to take
up recharge pits in a small area to compensate for loss of natural
recharge to the soil covered by built up areas.

CATEGORY·I

Commonly runoff water from rooftops is let off into the drain
canals. Instead of this, the outlets can be connected through a pipe
to a storage tank and let into trenches/pits filled with filter media or
existing open wells/bore wells etc., to serve as recharge points.
a). Recharge Through Pits

A minimum of 6 Cum. Volume of recharge pit/trench is

recommended for a catchment area of 100 Sq.M. and multiples
thereof for large areas. Pits are dug deeper and away from the
building foundations where the soil is more compressible.
Commonly pits with .1.0 m dia and 2 to 3 metres depth are
recommended.
Actually, the rainwater harvesting process consists of three

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in 89
Harvesting. and Conserving Rainwater

stages (i) collection of rainwater, (il) filtering of rainwater through

a filter media and (iii) percolation of rainwater into the ground.

b). Recharge by Water Spreading and Pit Method.

This method is applicableto the houses having larger plain areas
with high permeable soils. The run off water from ·the rooftop
can be diverted into the bare soil.or garden in the premises of
households. Apart from this a longitudinal trench of 1.00 to 1.5
m depth with a width of 0.50 to 1.0 m may be dug and filled with
well-rounded pebbles, gravel and sand in order to store excess
run' off water during rainy days that eventually percolate. The
topsoil may be loosened before monsoon for better recharge.

c). Recharge Through Shafts

Groundwater recharge through shafts is preferable in the steep,
slope areas because water spreading and pits might create
springs or water oozing in the neighbouring houses located on
the down slope. The shafts are deep pits with a width of 1 m.
length of 2 m. and depth of 10 to 15 m. preferably terminating
above the aquifer level. The shafts may be cased or uncased
near the top layers but are rock filled with permeable soil, which
facilitates more effective and faster percolation and mitigation
of biological and chemical pollutions. Shaft construction is rather
expensive.

d). Recharge Through Wells:

Recharge through wells involves direct introduction of rainwater
through a settling sump to the underground formation. These
wells are commonly used both as production as well as recharge
wells. The rainwater from the rooftops can be used directly for
washing and other usages, Industries, multlstoried residential
buildings and government organizations can implement this
method as they depend mostly upon groundwater sources. The
bore wells used for groundwater drawal can also be used for

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
90 NEERU - MEERU

recharge with a valve control between the storage tank/setting

pits and bore well.

e). Recharge Through Bore wells.

Because of severe depletion of groundwater levels many of the
open and shallow bore wells have dried up. Therefore, the
people are discarding these wells and preferring deeper bore
wells adjacent to these dried up wells. These dried up wells
can be utilized as recharge wells by connecting them to the
water outlet pipes from the rooftops. A pit can be constructed
around tHe bore or adjacent to the bore and roof water can be
.diverted into the pit. Slotted pipe with coir pack has to be used
so that the sand and silt will not enter the slots.
fl. Storage Sump and Recharge Pit.
In independent houses and apartments where there is sufficient
open place, we can have recharge pit/trench with storage sump
for rainwater harvesting and storage. Excess rainwater after
filling the sump shall be conveyed to the recharge pit for
groundwater recharge, like this, the rainwater collections may
continue for direct use for a period of 4 to 5 days. In 100 Sq.M
rooftop area, apart from 2 Cum. Sump, a pit/trench of 6 Cum. is
to be constructed. Recharge of rainwater of 55,000 Its. Per
year could take place which is sufficient for 5 members for a
period of 100 days. Water stored in the sump could serve day-
to-day requirements.
In places where there is hard rock or clayey soil within 2 m.
depth from ground level, these pits are not useful because of
their non-permeable nature. In such places, only storage sump
of 4 Cum. Capacity is used.
g}. Recharge in the Apartment Areas.
The roof of apartments are drained by several pipes. The water
drained by some pipes can be used for growing garden crops.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in 91
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

The remaining pipes can be connected to recharge pits or

trenches located in the premises. The existing bore well can
also be recharged.

h). Recharge of Waste Water near the Hand Pumps Through

Pit.
The water which goes waste near the drinkingwater hanctpumps
can be diverted into recharge pits. But washing of clothes and
cleaning of utensils is to be restricted at the platform round the
hand pumps. The advantages of diverting the wastewater near
the hand pumps are (i). Recharge, (ii). Surroundings will be kept
clean and (iii). Avoidance of mosquito problem.

.i). Street Recharge Pits and Trenches

The storm run off generated within an area can be utilized for
recharging by diverting it into suitably designed structures near
pavements, parking plots, municipal parks, play ground,
stadiums, air ports etc., and earmarking some open places
exclusively for the purpose. Collection of storm run off into local
depressions,unused tanks can serve temporary storage of water
and subsequent infiltration and recharge.
The design of recharge structures has to be accomplished with
sufficient number of recharge pits and trenches filled with gravel.
The location of these recharge structures should be close to the
place where storm run off water is collected posing problem for
traffic and disposal. Pavements can be utilized for collecting
road run off and for recharginggroundwater. An infiltrationtrench
of 0.5 m. wide and depth of j to 1.5 m. back filled with porous
material and large perforated pipe to distribute storm run off
rapidly and to hold more water serves as a best recharge facility.
Infiltration pits of 1 m. dia and 2 to 3 m. depth can also be taken
up along the street corners and connected to trench. These
structures are to be taken up in clean environments only.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

92 NEERU - MEERU

CATEGORY-II

Large areas owned by Educational Institutes, organizations are

endowed with clear-cut drainage courses and vacant land. Rain
water harvesting in vacant land can be achieved by urban
forestry, forestry with broad furrow method, continuous contour
trenches, ,staggeredtrenches, whereas the runoff flowing in the
stream courses can be detained at several locations by
constructing bunds of small depths to detain water flow and
spread over large stream channel section area to facilitate
groundwater recharge. These structures, apart from being low
cost variety, are very effective in the sense that runoff water
generated on many of the rainy days can be detained and
allowed to percolate. These structures are classified as gully
plugs, rock fill dams, check dams depending on the size of the
structure and its location in the catchment.
a). Gully plugs are to be constructed across the first order streams
with. less than one metre width and half metre height. Stone
pebbles and earth are used in the construction. If these materials
are not available, plastic bags filled with sand can be heaped to
form gully plug. Several gully plugs can be constructed along
the stream at such interval that the streambed drops by 05 m.
to 1.0 m. in between.

b). Rock fill dams are to be constructed across the 2nd order streams ;
with widtH around 2 m. and depth of 0.5 m. locally available
large boulders are to be used to withstand speed of the flowing
water. To fill up the gap betweenthe boulderssmallersize stones
as well as earth material can be used to prevent leakage of
water.

c). Check dams are to be constructed across the streams having

width exceeding 3.0 m. and depth of one metre and more. The
catchment area of such streams could be 0.25 Sq. Km. To 2.00

-----Qr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhraPradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in 93
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

Sq. Km. All the rainfall incident in the catchment of the streams
should not be impounded like irrigation tanks so thaUhe riparian
rights are not infringed and also that submergence problems
are minimized. Therefore, check dams are to be constructed
across the streambed up to a height of 1.0 m. All the excess
. stream flow would be passing over the top of the check dam.
The construction material comprises of C.R. masonry of first
sort, laid over plain cement concrete foundation. On either side
of the check dam abutting the sfrearnsldes, there shall be wing
walls with C.R. masonry laid on P.C.C. rough stone paving is
essential on either side of the stream to maintain its section
intact. Earthen bund leads with rough stone pitching may be
provided on either side, if the site condition requires. The check
dams are to be preferably located upstream of bore wells/open
wells supplying water to the municipalities.
d). Sunken ponds are suitable to impound surface runoff over flat
and gently slopping terrains. Sunken ponds are formed by
excavatingand removalof soil cover and part of morrumto create
thereby a storage space and the recharge to groundwater made
possible thorough weathered rock at a faster pace of dissipation.
Depending on the site situation about 5 x 5 m. size or 3 x 8 m.
size pond with 3 to 5 rn. depth may be made. The edges of the
pond may be prevented from collapsing by stone pitching.
Selection of suitable site is an important phase in the planning
and construction of a pond. The site selected should ensure
that the catchment is neither too small nor too big. Too small
catchment may not contribute sufficient water to the pond while
too big a catchment may result in rapid siltation of the pond.
Catchments with well-protected conservation measures will
contribute less silt to the ponds. Other aspects like area with
minimum undulations and free from soil problems like salinity /
alkalinity and stoniness are to be considered in selection of pond
site. For the drainageof excess water from the pond, emergency

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 94 NEERU - MEERU

Spill waysl outlets are to be provided. The ponds may be

provided with controlled inlets of the chute spillway type so that
gullying does not occur at the inlet portion. The capacity of the
inlet should be sufficient and suitable.

: e). CONTINUOUS CONTOUR TRENCHESAND STAGGERED

TRENCHES
If the large areas endowed with existence of hillocks the runoff
from such hillocks and hill slopes rainwater harvesting can be
done by constructing CCTs or STs. Forest plantations can be
I

clubbed with the programme of CCTs.

f). PERCOLATION TANKS

The trrigation Department have already issued a manual of
construction of percolation tanks.

V. CO~PUTATION OF ADDITIONAL RECHARGE TO

GROUNDWATER
Roof top collection and diversion to recharge pit factors
considered for 100 Sq.M individual house and 500 Sq. M.
apartments.
• Roof top area.
•. Rainfall 20 mm in single event.
• Total annual rainfall 778 mm.
• Percent rainfall considered for harvesting is 70% of annual
rainfall i.e., 555 mm.

SI. Description Individual Apartments

No. Houses
1. Roof Top area 100 Sq. M. 500 Sq. M.
2. Available rooftop water for 2.0 Cum. 10.0 Cum.
20 mm. Rainfall.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in 95
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

3. Available rooftop water for 55 Cum. 275 Cum.

additional recharge per annum
@ 70% of total annual rainfall.
4. Available rooftop water for 1,10,000
additional recharge from 2000 Cum.
houses of 10 Sq. M. each
. If two thousand such units are constructed, the additional
recharge to groundwater can meet the requirements of 2,000 families
for 100 days.
VI. COST OF THE RECHARGEPITS/TRENCHES.

The volume and estimated cost of recharge pit / trench for

different rooftop/catchment areas are furnished hereunder.
SI.No. Rooftop/ Volume of Estimated Cost Rs.
catchment recharge Cum.
area in Sq.M.
1. 40 2.5 2,000
2. 100 6.0 4,500 (Rs. 750/- per Cum
3. 500 30.0 25,000/-
VII. ADVANTAGES OF RAINWATER HARVESTING

• Build up in groundwater levels.

• Rejuvenation of dried up wells.
• Improvement to the yields of wells.
• Improvement in the quality of groundwater through dilution.
• Helps in reducing incidation of roads and flood hazard.
• Saves future generations from water scarcity problem.
• Collection of rooftop water into a sump and recharge pit
facilitates direct use of rainwater apart from recharge to
groundwater. This helps in reducing the water bill and huge
investments or purchase of water through tankers in scarcity
areas.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

96 NEERU-MEERU

• The structures recommended for rainwater harvesting are

simple, economical and eco-friendly.

VIII.PRECAUTIONS TO BE FOLLOWED WHILE SELECTING &

CONSTRUCTING THE RECHARGE STRUCTURE.
A). In case of collection of rooftop & road top water.
i). To Clearoff doubt whether the rocky layer beneath the
soil is permeable or not, it is advisable to dig a pit
1x1x1.5 m. deep and fill up with water. If the water
seeps over a day or two; it is feasible to go for recharge
structures.
ii). Recharge Structures are not required in shallow water
table zones, i.e., the water level less than 5 m. in
November.
iii). Commonly runoff water from rooftops are let off into
the drains. Instead of this the outlets can be connected
through a pipe to a storage tank and let into gravel filled
trenches/pits, existing open wells/bore wells etc., to
serve as recharge points.
iv). Recharge water should be clean and free from
contamination. Urban surface run off water flowing on
roads with lot of sediment load and pollutants should
not be allowed for direct recharge.
v). While recharging through open shafts/wells the source
water isto be sent through a silt filtering pit/silt-settling
chamber.
vi). While harvesting road top water, afilter pack comprising
a
of layered filter media with grating may be introduced
in the vent from catch pit to recharge pit. ..
vii). The recharge pit/trench is to be providedwith brick lining
•
of 45 em. Height at the top 30 em. Below ground level
and 15 em. Above gravel level to debar entry of waste

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-...,.----
Op~rational Means and Methods in 97
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

material into the structure. The height of wall can be

more if loose soils are so deep.
viii). The lined portion of the pit can be left empty to
accommodate more water. If needed, an additional
precaution with protective porous concrete covers or
wire mesh may be provided as per site requirements.
ix). Avoid constructing the recharge structures near
dustbins, toilets, solid waste dumps.
x). Road top rainwater recharge structures are to be .
planned and taken up cautiously in unpolluted and
hygienic catchment areas only.
xi). In order to arrest impact of flow on filter media a splash
pad is to be placed on top of the filter media.
xii). The earth material excavated for making a pit/trench
should not be allowed to be left near the structure.: The
excavated material should be carried away and dumped
somewhere else.
xiii). Roof to be kept clean by end of May.
xiv). The first rainwater not to be diverted to pit.
xv). Brick pieces are not to be used as layer in the-pit.
xvi). Domestic sewerage waters are not to be utilized unless
treated depending upon local conditions.
B). In case of storm runoff and stream courses.
• .:Many existing stream courses are either cut off or diverted
. by rapid construction activity in and around the City.. The
storm runoff may be diverted into the nearest tanks or
depressions whicti will create recharge. The collection
of storm run off in unused tanks can serve for temporary
storage.:
• Oesilting of the streams approaching the reservoirs &
tanks to facilitate accumulation of run off water.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
98 NEERU-MEERU

• Domestic sewerage waters can be reclaimed after soil

aquifer treatment depending upon local conditions, quality
oflwater and also feasibility.
• Adequate precautions for not letting sewage and effluents
into the stream courses are to be taken.
• Roof top collection with filter media need not be resorted
in large areas since it is the costliest than rainwater
harvestingstructureson watershedapproach such as rock
fill dams, check dams, etc.
Adoption of Soil and Water Conservation Practices·

Despite the historic focus of most Indian soil and water

conservation programs on mechanical measures, soil scientists and
agronomists often stress that there is much more to soil conservation
than trapping runoff water behind mechanical or vegetative barriers.
Conservation begins with sound agronomic practices such as
maintaining soil cover and cultivating across the slope to encourage
infiltration and reduce runoff Accordingly, this section examines
farmers' adoption of various approaches to conserving soil.
Agronomic Practices

Respondents were asked about a variety of conservation-

oriented agronomic practices, including strict contour cultivation,
cultivation across the slope, retaining stubble in the plot, and applying
mulches to cover bare soil. Of all of these practices, cultivation across
the slope was the only one practiced by more than a handful of
farmers. Farmers indicatedthat they recognized the value of applying
mulches and retaining stubble in the fields throughout the dry sea-
son, but they rarely carried out these practices because of the high
opportunity cost of forgoing use of the cut stubble for fuel and feed.
Respondents uniformly said that strict contour farming is
impractical except on irrigated land and plots steeper than those
covered in this survey. Not a single respondent practiced contour

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Operational Means and Methods in . 99
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

cultivation. This finding echoes the points about contour cultivation

made by Kerrand Sanghi (1992). In short, numerous basic features
of indigenous .ralnfed farming systems are integrally linked to
quadrilateral plot boundaries, and contour bunds and contour
cultivation directly interfere with them. As a result, adopting contour
farming carries high op-opportunity costs. In the 1990s, many
watershed projects still officially recommended contour cultivation
on rainfed plots, but in practice this was ignored. Efforts were limited
to promoting "modified contour cultivation," which simply means .
cultivating across the slope. Project staff ignored the official
instructions to promote contour cultivation because farmers simply
would not adopt it, except on irrigated and very steep rainfe~ plots.
Given the mild slopes and small area of plots in the sample,
30 cultivation across the slope is virtually as effective as strict con-
tour cultivation. Farmers indicated that they traditionally alternated
the direction of cultivation each year, goingalong one boundary one
y~ar and the other boundary the next. Where plots were long and
narrow, with the long side running along the slope, many farmers
cultivated along the slope every year to reduce the number of turns
they had to make during field operations. This led.to increased runoff
and erosion.:
Data presented in Table-1 suggest that watershed projects
were effective in encouraging farmers to cultivate across the slope,
particularlyin Andhra Pradeshwhere interactionbetween respondents
and watershed project staffwas high. Farmerswere significantlymore
likely to cultivate across the slope in project villages, particularly if
they had interacted with project staff. In Maharashtra there was no
. . .
significant difference between project and non-project plots.
Regressions to explain adoption of cultivation across the slope did
not yield interesting results and so are not presented. Using predicted
project dummy varlebles, the only statistically significant variable is
the dummy indicating whether the farmer interacted with the project
staff. No plot, household, or village characteristics are statistically

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 100 NEERU - MEERU

significant.With actual projectdummy variables,the projectcategories

are statisticallysignificantas long as the dummy variablefor interaction
with project staff is omitted. Whe'n that variable is included, it
dominates the effects of the project categories, and none of them are
significant.
In any case, the tabular analysis strongly suggests that
projects were effective in encouraging farmers to cultivate across the
slope. Farmers in villages covered by the World Bank specifically
. mentioned this as one of the two most important project benefits.
(The other was the introduction of new seeds for improved varieties
arid horticultural crops.) Since numbers were high for respondents
. who did not interact with project staff as well as for those who did, it
seems likely that the message about cultivating across the slope
spread from farmer to farmer, even beyond the scope of the project.
Table-1
Respondents who
Project cateqory All respondents interacted with the
project staff
Total Total
%of " % of
observ-e observ-a
total total
-tions -tions
Andhra Pradesh
Overall 127 80 76 96
NWDPRA 25 72 13 100
oPAP 27 100 19 100
NGO 22 86 17 94
World Bank or ICAR 33 88 27 93
No project 20 40 - -
Source: Authors' 1997 survey data.
. (Notes: This table covers only plots with a slope. Kruskal-
Wallis test indicates that project category is significantly associated
with cultlvatlon across the slope for Andhra Pradesh but not

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----'---
 Operational Means and Methods in 101
Harvesting and Conserving Rainwater

Maharashtra. Maharashtra:chi-square = 0.12, 4 df (highly

insignificant); Andhra Pradesh: chi-square = 28.83, 4 df, P < :001.
See Chapter 2 or the glossary at the end of the report for full names
and descriptions of the projects.)
CONCLUSION
Groundwater exploitation is inevitable in urban areas. But
the groundwater potential is getting reduced due to urbanization
resulting in over-exploitation. Hence, a strategy to implement the
ground water recharge, in a maier way, need to be launched with
concerted efforts by various Government and Non-Government
agencies and public at large to buildup the water table and make the
groundwater resource a reliable and sustainable source.
The successful implementationrequirespeople'sparticipation
and acceptance. Support and participation for which canvassing
through pamphlets in English,Telugu and Urdu languages,organizing
of similar workshops at district and mandai levels and through audio-
visual publicity are being carried on. Accordingly, technical guidance
was given by conducting grama sabhas and workshops during
Janmabhoomi. Resident welfare associations, builders associations
and contractors were also trained. At district level, Deputy Director,
Groundwater Department will provide technical guidance.
In each Municipality concerned Municipal Engineer/town
planning officer etc., will coordinateand guide the rainwater harvesting
activity and also technical assistance. The site selection"by either
Engineer/Geologist! Volunteer self help group persons will be in a
report form with diagrams. This will give rational approach to arrive
at the sizes of the structures recommended.
(*Source:- John Kerr, in collaboration with Ganesh Pangare and
- Vasudha Lokur Pangare Research Report 127, International Food
Policy Research Institute,Washington,DC. ; http://www.ifpri.org/pubsl
abstract/127lrr127.pdO

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 6
INSTITUTIONAL AND
ADMINISTRATIVE ARRANGEMENT IN .
NEERU-MEERU PROGRAMME·
Water conservation and utilization committees have been
formed at district, constituency, municipal, mandai and gram
panchayat level, Self-Help Groups (SGHs) are also involved in the
implementation of the works. As on 26.5.2001, 11,077 water
conservation and utilization committees were constituted and 16,756
meetings were held at various levels.
Documentation of Neeru-Meeru Works.

The District Collectors and Heads of Departments have been

asked to undertake documentation, executing' agency-wise with
reference to ha~itation, village, gram panchayat, mandai, assembly
constituency and district levels.
Evaluation of Studies on impact of Neeru-Meeru

The District Collectors and Heads of Departmentsto evaluate

the impact of Neeru-Meeru on groundwater levels, reouctlon in water:
scarcity, regenerationof open/borewells, changes in cropping pattern,
animal husbandry, dilution ,of water quality etc. Groundwater
Department is also taking up impact assessment studies.
Campaign strategy to bring about massive awareness.

A campaign strategy for bringing about awareness on water

conservation works/activities is being adopted in districts. Wide
publicity arranged through various means in districts.
Hon'ble Chief Minister' has also convened the meeting of
press editors on 10.5,2001for their positivesupport to the programme.

. .
~----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAt1dhra
Pradesh-------
Institutional and Administrative 103
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

Members I invitees to undertake field visits before Water

Conservation Mission (WCM)meeting
Field visit organized on 28111 and 29111 of May, 2001. Few
members will undertake after the WCM meeting.

Developing one or two V/atershed villages in a district as

_model villages.
Guidelines for "Adarsh Goan" received from Sri Anna Sahab
Hazare communicatedto the districts. Collectorsand ProjectDirectors
(DPAPs) have been asked to develop few watersheds as models.

Evolving a long-term plan for Neeru-Meeru

Groundwater Department and AP State Remote Sensing
Application Centre (APSRAC) entrusted with the responsibility of
evolving a scientific plan. The concerned departments will also work
out the detailed plans.

Departments involved in Neeru·;.Meeru programme

1. Rural Development
2. Forest
-3. Minor Irrigation (PR)
4. Rural Water Supply (PR)
5. Municipal Administration and Urban Development
6. Endowments
7. Minor Irrigation (I and CAD)
8. Medium Irrigation
9. Major Irrigation
Prioritization of Areas
• 399 water stress mandals identified by Groundwater
Department.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 104 NEERU - MEERU -

• Dark and Grey areas.

• Villages/Habitationswhich experiencedrinkingwater scarcity.
. .
• Areas with groundwater beyond 20 metres from surface.
• Villages falling in very high priority watershed villages.
Prioritization of Works
• Continuous contour trenching (CCT)
• Restoration/maintenance of feeder channels.
• Desilting of tanks.
• Strengthening of bunds.
• Percolation tanks.
• Check Dams.
• Rock Fill Dams. (RFD)
Recharge Structures in Urban Areas.
The Government of Andhra Pradesh in respect to Neeru-
Meeru Programme has brought in two administrative measures',(1).
Water Users Associations (2) Watershed Development Programme.
It may be mentioned here Water Development Programme (WOP)
as a national programme was introduced by the Government of India.
Further, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has constituted 'Water
Conservation Mission' at the State Level and Water Conservation
and Users Committees at the District, Mandai, Municipal and Village
levels, The Watershed Development Programme and Water Users
Association function as adjuncts to the Neeru-Meeru Programme.
The details of these two programmes are detailed below.

IRRIGATION POLICY 1

While we are discussing Neeru-Meeru Programme in the

State of Andhra Pradesh, it is relevant here to look into the Irrigation
Policyformulated by the Government. This policy, in a comprehensive
way, stipulates how the whole thing related to irrigation of different
.
-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 105
Arrangement In Neeru-Meeru Programme

types is to be carried out. Here the policy emphasizes joint operation

by the farmers and other concerned departments. This Irrigation
Policy serves as a guideline.
The immediate priority of AP is to restore and improve the
productivity of existing irrigation systems, to ensure their sustainable
management .by involving farmers through WUAs, and to put the
sector on a sound financial footing. This needs a massive drive to
provide follow-up support to make the recently created WUAs fully
functional. Maintenance and rehabilitation, continued improvement
in cost recovery, realignmentof publicexpenditures,and rapid capacity
building of sector institutions are required to meet these new
challenges. The State's water resources planning and management
will need increased attention to support long-term goals and.future
expansion. Concerted actions are, therefore, being launched in the
following areas:
• Creation of a Farmer-Government Partnership.
• Consolidation of Irrigation ManagementTransfer to Farmers.
• Maintenance and Rehabilitation.
• Agricultural Extension.
• Cost Recovery and Financial Sustainability.
• Expenditure prioritization.
• Institutional Reforms and Capacity Building.

Creation of a Farmer-Government Partnership:

A foundation for success will be the establishment of a close
partnership between the farmers and their WLiAs on the one hand
and the key government agencies, i.e. (i) the Irrigation and CAD
Department, (it) the Agriculture Department, (iii) the Revenue
Department, and (iv) local administration, on the other hand. A new
relationship will be forged with the farmers considered as the client
and the government responsive to the client. The efforts of the various
government departments will be closely coordinated. In particular, a

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 106
NEERU- MEERU

close association will be developed and maintained between

Agriculture and Irrigation/CADA officials, with interaction between
them and the WUAs..Services of other Government departments will
also be mobilized in particular, the district administration and the
Revenue Department.The energy of NGOs,the academiccommunity,
and other civil societies will also be mobilized to support these efforts.

Consolidationof Irrigation Manag .... ent Transferto Farmers:

Following the formation of WUAs in all irrigation·systems of
the State, these are required to gather strength to take on their new
roles, for which necessary technical support is to be provided. This is-
already being implemented,and will be one of the State's top prlorlties
in the 9th Plan. period. The WUAs will be. provlded with intensive
training and te.chriicalsupport to assume their roles as managers of
their systems including full responsibility for O&M and investment for
the parts of the system under their control, and as participants in
planning of investment and in management of O&M for the main
systems. Over a time, WUAs will progressively take higher levels of
responsibility, with the long-term goal of managing autonomous
irrigation systems. The capacities of WUAs will gradually be built so
that the total management of irrigation systems will be turned over to
them. In the interregnum, there will be [oint management by the I
&CAD Department and the farmers. This initiative will be tried out on
a pilot basis and progressively spread in all the irrigation projects of
the state. The immediate priorities are to provide intensive training
and technical support to the WUAs, for participation in management
decisions of the systems at higher levels. The drive to achieve these
goals is receiving top priority in the state. NGOs have also played a
lead role in these initiatives, and the involvement.of NGOs will be
further encouraged in the future.
. Maintenance and Rehabilitation:

A sharp rise in funding levels for maintenance will be .

-----Dr.M.C.RH.RD of
InstituteAndhra
Pradesh------
 Institutional and Administrative 107
. Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

undertaken immediately. Because of the severe deterioration of the

irrigation systems, a massive programme to rehabilitate the irrigation
systems to make them functional is to be first undertaken. Thereafter,
annual funding for maintenance works to the required levels will be a
first priority in the state's expenditures on irrigation and drainage.
To achieve these goals, the followi.ng program will be .
launched:
(i).. ·Minimum Rehabilitation Program: Because of the widespread
. deterioration of the irrigation and drainage systems, a minimum
rehabilitation (deferred maintenance) program will be
implemented in all the state's major and medium irrigation
systems: Necessary funding will be made available.
(ii). Maintenance Works Funding: AHocationsfor O&M will be split
Into .two categories; works and'salaries/wages, with separate
budget appropriations for each. The annual budget allocation
for maintenance works will be adjusted from time to time taking
the 1997 prices as datum, or at such other higher level as may
be determined in annual reviews of maintenance requirements..
Agricultural Extension:
The improvements in irrigation services will also be matched .
by enhanced efforts by way of providing access to WUAs and their
farmers to better agronomic and water use technologies. A program
to achieve this is beir'lglaunched in 1998/99. The existing network 9f
Agriculture Department staff, and ancillary entities such as Training
Centres, the Agricultural Umverslties and ID/CADA's WALAMTARI
will be provided with targeted support to increase effectiveness. This
will include:
• Dissemination of information on,irrigated agriculture
technology;
• Training for Agriculture Department (AD) staff;
• A system of regular extension visits by AD staff to WUAs;

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
108 NEERU-MEERU

• Selection by each WUA of one progressive farmer to receive

special training and to become the WUA's "lead farmer",
providing linkages with the AD and I&CADD and play an
extension role within the WUA;
• On-farm demonstrations; and
• Organizational changes to ensure close partnership between
farmers, I&CADD and AD.
The approach will include use of the media, technical bulletins
distributed to all WUAs, visual aids, etc.

Costrecovery and financial sustainability:

A major focus of the policy is on cost recovery. Along with
the irrigation maintenance and rehabilitation programmes, action will
be taken on the revenue side to ensure that the irrigation service is
financlally self-sustainable. The major start given in this direction is
by way of enhanced water charges compared with the previous water
charges.
The goal is to achieve cost recovery such that revenues fully
cover the costs of O&M. A major step towards this has been the
three-fold increase in water charges that was introduced in 1997. In
this connection, the revenue collection efficiency in the state being
low, needs to be improved. The following actions will be taken to
achieve the goal of full cost recovery:

(i) Raising revenue collection rates: As part of the massive

irrigation extension program to be launched by I&CADD with
the WUAs, the need for achieving full recovery will be stressed,
supplemented also by media campaigns, and the work of the
Revenue Department staff, and by incentives to WUAs.
Additional measures will be introduced progr.essivelyincluding
computerized billing and transferring collection responsibilities
to WUAs.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 109
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Progr,amme

(ii) Revisions of Irrigation Water Charges: Water charges shall

proqresslvely be adjusted such that water charge revenues fully
cover the Irrigation and CAD Departments O&M expendifure
requirements. Water rates will be adjusted annually on the basis
of annual examination and recommendation by the state's Water
Charges Review Committee, in linewith inflationand actual O&M
needs.

(iii) Introduction of Investment Cost-Sharing: Capital cost sharing

will be introduced in due course for investments in irrigation.

(iv) Water Charges for Other Users: Other users (e.g. bulk water
supplies to municipalities, industries, power plants, fisheries) will
be billed for the water and service provided by the I&CADD.
Assessment of modalities will be made in the forthcoming
months.

(v) Improve Cost-effectiveness of O&M: The Water Charges

Committee and ID/CADD would annually review the cost-
structure of O&M, in particular of staff and work-charged
establishment. Ways of reducing deficiencies and over-staffing
will be under constant attention and would be shared with WUA
representatives. Savings generated will be used to build up an
assets renewal fund.
(vi) Revenues to be directly Recovered and Used by the I&CAD
Department: Water charges are presently collected by the
Revenue Department from individual farmers. Furthermore, the
revenues go into the general state exchequer and are not
earmarked for irrigation O&M. As a result, there is no linkage
between revenues received and O&M allocations, to ensure in
.the long-term that O&M will be adequately financed. This system
needs to be replaced by a commercially based system where
the operating entities directly charge for the service and fund
their operations from revenues, ensuring long-term sustainability

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 110 NEERU-MEERU

of the service. This change will be introduced as follows:

Phase I: The revenue department will continue to collect water
charges, but now with the assistance of the WUAs. Accounts will be
maintained by the WUAs as well as the Revenue Department as a
basis for allocation of funds to the WUAs for O&M of their systems.
Also, the Revenue Department will transfer the amounts collected to
a special head of accountof the IrrigationDepartmentto be exclusively
used for financing O&M. Untilwater revenues fully cover O&M needs,
this account will be further supplemented by, the State Finance
Department. This will become operative from the 1998/99 financial
year.
Phase II: The WUAs will be empowered to collect water charges
directly from their members. The WUAs would retain their share of
revenues for O&M at their levels, transferring agreed amounts to the
Irrigation Department, the WUA distributory committee, the project-
level committee and the local bodies. Revenue~will thus be directly
supportingexpenditure needs, representingthe full commercialization
of systems desired for their long-term sustainability. This phase
requires study and subsequent changes in existing legislation, but
would be aimed for within the next five years, with likely earlier piloting
on some schemes. This phase will create self-financing irrigation
entities at-ell levels in the.system, and scope for further investment
. by the private sector and access to capital markets.

Expenditure Prioritization:
Despite of massive public expenditure on irrigation of the
past - a quarter of the total State plan expenditure in the lost three
plan periods - irrigation infrastructure has expanded only marginally
in recent years, and from the early 1990s irrigated area has actually
declined. Irrigation will remain a priority for the State, but the
composition of the expenditure must be radically changed. In place
of new construction, crowding out all other expenditures, the new
policy prioritizes maintenance, rehabilitation, investment in human

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Institutional and Administrative 111
Arrangement In Neeru-Meeru Programme

capital and technology, and modernization as first priorities, with

funding of construction coming after these needs are met, and sharply
focussed to viable investment opportunities.
Institutional Reforms and capacity building:

To improve sector performance improved management

capacity is needed. The above objectives will greatly jncrease the
skill demands on the I&CAD and other government staff, and in the
process, work demands will be very high. However, in view of the
state objective to reduce public sector staffing, the short-term peak
of activity will need to be done by the same and progressively fewer
staff. Emphasis will thus be placed on improving the effectiveness of
government intervention, bearing in mind that major institutional
disruptions at this time would undermine the ongoing major initiatives
to involve farmers in the O&M and rehabilitation of the systems. A
sustained effort will be made to improve the capabilities of the I &CAD
staff through training, installati.onof a state of the art communication
system for transfer of data at all levels, and an extensivecomputerized
Management Information System (MIS). Parallel initiatives will be
taken to strengthen agricultural extension for irrigation. These efforts
will be based on government capacity building and involvement of
farmers, NGQs, and the private sector. A study for further institutional
reform in irrigation and water resources management will be
undertaken, benefiting from the initial experiences with irrigation
. management transfer. More comprehensive institutionalrestructuring
will then be carried out, including reduction of staff as appropriate.
The following actions are intended:
(i) . Government Capacity Building: A sustained capacity building
exercise is to be made to provide Irrigation and CADA staff with
the supplemental training, consultancy and equipment needs to
improve performance and meet the new challenges. Short-term
emphasis will.be placed on
• a major training program for officials and farmers to support

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
112 NEERU - MEERU

the irrigation management transfer, O&M and rehabilitation

programs,
• creation of linkages and a partnership approach between key
government agencies (e.g. I&CAD, Agriculture, and the
district administration)and betweengovemment and farmers,
and
• selected capacity building in key areas of human resources
development and training, monitoring and evaluation,
management information systems, cornrnunlcatlons,
equipment and computerization.
(ii) Interlinkages with NGOs and the Private Sector: Maximum
use will be made of capacity in the non-Government sector. Initial
experience with NGOs in piloting of WUAs has been positive.
This will be expandedto the maximum NGO capabilitiespresently
availableand that may further develop in the future. The university
sector will be interlinkedwith the human resources development,
training and technology development drive. Consultants and the
private sector will be used to develop new areas such as MIS,
computerization, monitoring and evaluation and communications
technology. Certain activities,for instance,eventualcomputerized
billing for water charges, and the like may be contracted out to
the private sector.
(iii) Institutional Restructuring: A study will be carried out on
institutional restructuring after two years of initial experience, and
further reforms would be introduced. Essential government
activities such as water planning, evaluation and funding of
investment and technical assistance would continue under
streamlined management.

WATER USERS ASSOCIATIONS 2

For the first time, it was recognized that the farmers should
be partners and managers of irrigation in total gamut of irrigation

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 113
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

system. In this context, details in respect of the constitution and the

role of functions of water users' associationsis of interest and relevant.
PREAMBLE:

Andhra Pradesh is one of the important river States in South

India and is endowed with numerous rivers like Godavari, Krishna,
Pennar and Vamsadhara and other minor river basins. The state
has a total irrigation potential of 4.80 m.ha. Irrigation and Drainage
have always been accorded priority in Plan allocations by the
Government. Despite massiv~ investments in the irrigation sector,
the irrigated area has shown declining trend in several major
commands, due to insufficient allocations for the maintenance of
irrigation schemes, poor cost recovery of water charges, limited user
involvement, low quality of agriculture, etc., resulting in a gap ayacut
of 11.80 lakh acres. To remedy this situation, Government of Andhra
Pradesh has taken the historic decision to transfer management of
all irrigation systems to farmer's organizations in January 1996.·
In the year 1996 and 1997 several consultations were held
with farmers of the major project areas, District Collectors, Press, .
Universities, Legislators and Parliamentarians to evolve a strategy
for the constitution of farmers organizations in the irrigation sector.
Farmers in Andhra Pradesh have small land holdings ranging from 1
to 1.5 ha. and the complexity of irrigation systems varies from minor
irrigation tanks etc., to major irrigated commands. Further the
indiscriminate use of water by the head-enders is depriving the same
to the tail-enders with water logging and salinity almost.being a
common phenomenon in most of the irrigation projects. The result of
the series of consultations led to the enactmentof the Andhra Pradesh
Farmer's Management of Irrigation Systems Act, 1997.
A.P.F.M.I.S. Act:

The Act provides for the constitution of farmers organizations

for the irrigation sector. Projects have been classified as Minor (less

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
114 NEERU-MEERU

than2.000 ha.), Medium (2,000 to 10,000 ha.), and Major (more than
10,000 ha.). The Act provides for recall of members on ground of
non-performance or any violations. The tenure of a farmer's
organization is 5 years.
Structure of Farmers Organizations:

Farmers Irrigation
Composition & functions.
Organization Systems

Water User Minor, 1. Formed on a hydraulic basis.

Associations Medium, 2. Area of a WUA to be divided in
(at the Major to 4-10 Territorial .
primary level). Irrigation Constituencies to give
projects. adequate representation to all
farmers in head tail and middle
reaches.
3. All landholders and tenants
within the notified area are
members with voting rights.
4. All other water users including
cultivators leaseholders etc,
are.members without voting
rights:
5. President and Territorial
Constituency members (who
are Managing Committee
members) are elected through
secret Ballot.
Distributory All Major 1, One or more Distributaries
Committee. irrigation constitute a
(At the Systems Distributory Committee.
Distributory Only. 2. All WUAs in its jurisdiction are
Level) . its members.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D .Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 115
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

3. Look after medium drains and

distributaries.
. 4 . Resolve disputes of WUAs.
Project All Major & 1. A part or whole of the project
Comm ittee. Medium . to have a project committee.
(at the project Irrigation 2. All the presidents of the
Level). Systems. Distributory Committee are its
members.
3. Ensure. that WUAs and DCs
get their account audited, carry
out 0 & M.
4. Chairman and not more than
nine members as the
managing committee.
5. Resolve disputes of DC's &
WUAs.

The Act also provides for linkage between Irrigation

department and farmers organizations through appointment of officers.
as competent authorities. The competent authorities are responsible
for implementation and execution of all decisions taken by the farmers'
organizations. At WUA level, Assistant Engineer/Assistant Executive
Engineer is the competent authority while Deputy Executive Engineer
is the competent authority at Distributory Committee level. At Project
Committee level, Superintending Engineer/ Chief Engineer will be
the competent authority.
Government of Andhra Pradesh in pursuance of the Act have
conducted elections in June, 1997 and constituted 10,292 Water Users
Associations in the State covering 4.80 M. ha. 8,163 WUAs relate to
the minor irrigation schemes covering an area of 1.2 M. ha., 424
WUAs relate to the medium irrigation sector covering an area of 0.33
M. ha., and 1705 WUAs relate to the major irrigation sector covering
an area of 3.27 M. ha., in the State. In November, 1997, 172 DCs

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 116 NEERU - MEERU

have been constituted in the major irrigation sector. Proposals for the
constitution of the Project Committees are under consideration of
the Government.
APERP Works Programme:
,
In order to rehabilitate and modernize the existing irrigation
systems, Government has obtained financial assistance from the
World Bank under the APERP (Irrigation Component) with a Project
.. Cost of Rs. 1298.56 Crores, (now revised to Rs. 1481.58 Crores) for
'·achieving the following objectives:-
I) Place the Irrigation Sector on a sustainable basis through
• Involvement of farmers in irrigation management
• Cost Recovery
II) Reverse the decline in Irrigated area
III) Improve the productivity of irrigated agriculture
IV) Strengthened cost recovery for 0 &M.
V) Expansion of effectively irrigated areas in existing systems.
The APERP (Irrigation Component) is basically designed as
a WUA support programme. Hence, the farmers' organizations
themselves undertook the minimum rehabilitation works in respect
of irrigation schemes. This process enabled the farmers to acquire·
experience in undertaking maintenanceworks and also to understand
the complexity of maintaining and operating the irrigation systems.
This involved executing maintenance works as per the prioritization
of the works after a walk-through survey. The details of the works
taken up during the period 1998 to 2001 are as follows:
Value of work
SI. No. of
Year done Remarks
No. Works
(Rs.inCrores)
1 1998-99 21,406 118.82 .Completed
2 1999-2K 17,185 169.57 Completed

-~---Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
 "
Institutional and Administrative 117
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3 2000-01 . 10,876 93.55 Works in progress

4 2001-2002 150.99 Budget provision
for works
The total expenditure so far incurred under A.P.E.R.P. is
Rs.363.75 Crores up to end of March 2001.
Minimum ~ehabilitation of 4,948 Minor Irrigation Tanks
from 2000-2001: -

The M.R. Programmeof Minor IrrigationTanks is taken up for

2934 tanks at a cost of Rs. 136.18 Crores covering an ayacut of 3.67
LakhHa. in phase I and another 2014 Minor Irrigationtanks at a cost
of Rs. 89.63 Crores covering an ayacut of2.12 lakh Ha. in Phase-II.
Thus M.R. Programme of Minor IrrigationTanks is taken up
for 4948 tanks at a cost of Rs. 225.81 Crores covering an ayacut of
5.79 Lakh Ha.to bridge a gap ayacut of 1.57lakh Ha( 3.871akhacres).

The execution of these works have led to the following

benefits so far:-

a). All areas of the irrigation commands across the State have been
taken up for irrigation improvement,whith has enabled in bridging
a gap of 10.07 Lakh acres in tail end areas (vide details shown
in annexure), besides reducing the crop season in about 2.50
Lakh acres by about 3 weeks.
b). General awareness among farmers to take up maintenance
works and prioritization of works to be taken up to ensure proper
regulation of water.
Training & Capacity Building
In order to disseminate technical Know-how on Agriculture
& Irrigation, the Water Users Association presldents have been
imparted training on the provlsionsof the APFMIS Act, execution of
maintenance works, water regulation, etc., at various times. So far

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D ofAndhra
Institute Pradesh--------,--
118 NEERU • MEERU

9,156 WUA Presidents and 35,563 T.C. Members have been covered
in the training programmes so far organized to disseminate technical
know-how on Agriculture & Irrigation, APFMIS Act, execution of
maintenance works and water regulation.
Conducting of Conferehces/ Seminars

To create awareness among WUAs about their role in

participatory irrigation management and to make them know the
policies of the Government, conference/Sadassus are beingregularly
held at district/region/state level. The conducting of these Sadassus
have helped the WUAs to ventilate their problems and get solutions
on the spot for some of their problems.
MONITORING AND EVALUATION:-

Evaluation studies have been conducted in 4/98 and again

during 7/98 on items like age groups, literacy, farmers status, caste,
other occupations if any, stage of receipt of advances for works, Co-
operation from Irrigation and other officials and whether they are
satisfied with the procedure being followed in execution of works, on
conduct of general body meetings and co-operation received from
members, advantage in taking up works by themselves, benefits
derived from the works taken up by the WUAs and otherissues.
WUA/DC Inspection format:

During the conference held on self help groups in the last

week of January, 2000, Government issued instructions that the
departmental officers have to inspect each WUAlDC and record their
findings on various issues like amounts received by them for doing
the works, maintenance of records and registers, misappropriation
of funds if any. For this purpose,an inspectionformat has been evolved
and copies were supplied to the field officers in the month of February
2000. The evaluation reports were prepared based on the data
obtained through these inspection formats.

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 Institutional and Administrative 119
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Impact Studies and perfermenee indicators:·

The work of conducting impact studies of WUAs arid
developirig various parameters and bench marks was entrusted to
MIs ORG-CSR on 31.8.2000 at a cost of Rs.10.00 lakhs with an
. agreement period of5 months. The draft report is under preparation
by ORG-CSR.
Feed-back f()rinats from D.C.Presldentse-
During 11/2000 feed back formats were sent to all the D.C.
Presidents for obtaining information on critical issues like convening
of G.B; meetings, ayacut irrigated, gap ayacut bridged, their.
suggestions for improving the performance of the Farmers
Organizations,etc.
- .
During. the State.level Sadassu of D.C. Presidents
held atWALAMTARI on 29th and 3QIhDecember, 2000 another Feed-
back format was given to assess the views on the itemsviz Agricultural
extension, Records, Registers and Accounts to be maintained and
relation with other Organizations like Gram Panchayats, Fisheries
Societies, -Social responsibility of WUAs in future, Financial
.Sustainabllity, Water Management and constructive changes that are
required for WUAs, Conducting of Meetings of WUAs, Social Audit,
etc, The Feed-back. so obtained from various groups has been
analysed and presented to the Hon'ble Ministerfor Major and Medium
Irrigation to have direct discussion with D.C. Presidents. The Hon'ble
. Minister has given clarifications on certain issues raised by them and
promised to look in to the balance issues.
Water Charges
One of the most important decisions that has been brought
in the field of O&M is the linkage between water charges collected by
the Revenue Department and the distribution. of water charges for
O&M works. A mechanism is worked out with the Finance and the
Revenue departments to arrive at the amount of water charges that
have to be ploughed back to the farmer's organizations for

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
120 NEERU - MEERU

maintenance ofthe system. The status of DCB particulars as on 15-

05-2001 is.as given below for the year 2001-2002.
(Rs. in Lakhs)

, Demand reported by Collections up % of

Balance
Collectors as on 1-4-2001 to 15-05-2001 collections
Arrears Current Total Total Total Total
18202.1 0.00 18202.1 1045.25 17156.85 5.74
The Government of Andhra Pradesh has taken yet another
landmark decision by issuing orders for apportioning the. water Tax
collected among the farmers Organizations for the Operation and
.Maintenance of the Irrigation systems. The water tax collected is to
be adjusted in the following ratio (vide G.O.Ms.No. 115 Revenue (LR
3) Dept dt 13.2.2001.
Water
Allocation in Rs.
Sector charges
Per Acre WUAs D.Cs· P.Cs GP Irr. Dept.
Major Rs.200/- 50 20 20 10 100
Medium Rs.2.00/- 60 .. 30 10 100
Minor Rs. 1001- 90 .. .. 10 -
Besides the above, extra amounts collected over and above
the current demand as on 1-2-2001 will accrue in full to the WUAs.
The work of initial assessment of the demand has been shifted from
the Revenue Department to the Competent Authority of the WUA. In
order to eliminate the scope for the unaccounted/concealed ayacut,
Joint Azmoish with irrigation and Revenue Department duly
associating the WUA President is prescribed. All these measures go
a long way in increasing the collections of Water tax sigriificantly from
the low percentage of about 2.7%.
The Chief Ministerduringthe videoconferencefurther directed
toplough back the full collections to the Farmers Organizations after
1-2~2001without reference to demand.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.RD Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Institutional and Administrative 121
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Strengthening of Farmers Organizations:

The focus of Government is to build up a viable and
sustainable Farmers Organization through a process of interactions,
workshops and simplifying office procedures and works procedures
besides consolidating the lessons already learnt in the irrigation
management. Minimum Rehabilitation of all major and medium
irrigation systems is planned to be completed in a period of 2 years.
The recent initiatives/measures taken by the Government
include the following: -
(i), Orders have been issued for sharing of revenue collected from
water charges between the Farmers Organizations and the
I&CAD Department.(vide G.O.Ms.No.115 Revenue (LR 3) Dept
. dt 13 - 2- 2001,
(ii). Computerization and linking of land records by the Revenue
Department, with a view to prepare land holders list for each
WUA across the State and hand over the same to them,
(iii). Launching of a massive campaign to increase the collection
percentage of water charges,
(iv). Continuation of training and awareness programmefor FOs and
the officers of concerned departments and
(v). Conducting of Video-Conferences with all the field level officers
of I&CAD Department across the State.
(vi). Accelerated implementation of Irrigated Agriculture
Intensification
Programme for increased farmers' income. Government have
so far released Rs 1.62+ 6.00=7.62 Crores to the Commissioner &
Director, Agriculture for this purpose. A budget provision of Rs.4.54
. Crores has been made for the year 2001-2002.
TasksAhead:-
i) Continued institutional strengthening and capacity building of

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
122 NEERU - MEERU

Farmers Organizations and I&CAD Department

a) Institutional strengthening of farmers organizations and
I&CAD Department
b) Financial Management Procedures
c) Monitoring and Evaluation
ii) Enhanced revenue and financial self-sufficiency
a. Increase the collection percentage of water charqes
b. Operationalise the Water Charges Review Committee.
c. Collection and reporting of the critical data
iii) Initiation of Further Institutional Reforms
RecentDevelopment:-

• On 9.11.2000 the World Bank President interacted with some of

the WUA Presidents at Koilsagar Project and appreciated the
good work done by the WUAs.
• The Hon'ble Chief Minister has addressed a letter to all the
Presidents of the WUAs and DCs on 29.11.2000 reviewing the
performance of the WUAs and suggesting the action needed to
be taken by them for safeguarding the irrigation system/tanks.
• A High-level team comprising of Hon'ble Minister for Major &
Medium Irrigation, Hon'ble Minister for Minor Irrigation,
Commissioner CAD and one Superintending Engineer visited
Australia during 11/2000 for studying the implementation of PIM
for strengthening the WUAs in the State.
• A State level Sadassu of DC Presidents was conducted on 29111
and 30th of December 2000 at WALAMTARI, Hyderabad to
discuss measures to be taken for strengthening the Farmers
Organizations further in the State.
• The Hon'ble Chief Minister reviewed the performance of the
WUAs and action plan for the year 2001-2002 under the APERP
(I.C) on 14.2.2001 and suggested various measures for

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 123
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strengthe~ing theFarmers Organizations in the State.

• An information format has been circulated to all the
, '

Superintending Engineers to obtain feedback on the functioning

of the D.Cs during March, 2001.
• ,Annual performanceindicatorshave been developedfor the WUA
Presidents of Major and Medium Irrigation Projects and a.format
, has been circulated during 4/2001 to all WUA Presidents of
evaluate their performance.
, "

., ,AP Workshop on WATER SECTOR REFORMS was held on 6th

and 7th of June 2001 at Hyderabad. ,
Annexure
BRIDGING OF GAP AYACUT
Gap
Gap
ayacul
ayacut Total
S. Name of the 'bridged
bridged in (in
No Project during
1998-99 acres)
1999-2000'
(in acres)
(inacres)
I. MAJOR IRRIGATION
1. Vamsadhara Project 1,7000 874 17874
2. N.S. Left Canal '50000 40000 90000
3. N.S. Right Canal 53000 30000 83000
4. Tungabhadra Project HLC 10000 13000 23000
5. Tungabhadra Project LLC 11000 5000 16000
6. Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme 2000 2500 4500
7. Nizamsagar Project 74000 17000 91000,
8. Kadam Project 23000 12000 35000
9. Sriramsagar Project 251000 75000 326000
10 K.C. Canal 21000 10000 31000
SUB-TOTAL-I 512000 205374 717374
II. MEDIUM IRRIGATION
a. Coastal Andhra Region 30640 30640

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
124 NEERU - MEERU

b. Rayalaseema Region 8649 8649

c. Telangana Region 27428 27428
SUB·TOTAL ·11 66717 66717
III. MINOR IRRIGATION
a. Coastal Andhra Region 13370 13370
b. Rayalaseema Region 42200 42200
c. Telangana Region 168100 168100
SUB·TOTAL ·111 223670 223670
GRAND TOTAL 512000 495761 1007761
--
THE ANDHRA PRADESH FARMERSMANAGEMENT OF
IRRIGATION SYSTEMSACT 1997(ACT 11 OF 1997) A

The Water Users' Association is formally and legally is

supported by enactment of the Andhra Pradesh Farmers'
Management of Irrigation Systems Act Passed in 1997 (Act 11 of
1997). The text of the above said Act is provided below.
The Andhra Pradesh Farmers Irrigation Act 1997 (Act 11 of
1997) was enacted in April this year by the Andhra Pradesh
government with a view to involve farmers in irrigation management
and ultimately achieve irrigation management transfer to farmers.
The Act, which is the first legislationin the field of participatoryirrigation
management, is one of the most revolutionary and innovative
legislation for the benefits of the farming community. The Act applies
to the whole of the state of Andhra Pradesh except the scheduled
areas, and the properties vested within the gram panchayats. Tanks·
with less than 100 Acres have been vested in the gram panchayats
and are mostly used for the purpose of drinking water with a minor
component of irrigation. The Act also provides for different provisions
to be brought into force as decided by government thereby giving a
lot of flexibility in making the act applicable.
It enables:
a) Creation of Water Users Associations (WUA's) in all irrigation

----:---Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Institutional and Administrative 125
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projects of the state.

b) Gives water rights to the WUA's.
c) Provides functional and administrative autonomy to the WUA's.
d) Makes irrigation department staff accountable to the WUA's as
the competent.
e) Authority, requiring 10 staff to implementthe decisionsof the WUA.
f) Enables WUA's to resolve conflicts themselves.
g) Enables improvement of the irrigation systems by the WUA's
·based on resources raised by the WUA's or from out of the grants
given by the government as a percentage of water charges
collected from the WUA's.
h) Allows access to information by the WUA on scheme operations.
i) permits preparation of the operational plan and the maintenance
plan by the WUA.
j) Provides freedom of cropping pattern to farmers.
k) Contains procedures and guidelines on accounting, social
auditing, water budgeting, election procedures, and other
administration.
In pursuance of the decision of the government, Delineation's
of each of irrigation scheme was delineated into viable water users
associations after giving due notice to farmers and calling for
objections by the district collectors. After the notifications were
. finallsed, elections were conducted to the water users association by
the district collectors. Detailedelection procedurehas been prescribed
in the election manual separately issued.
The Salient features of the Andhra Pradesh farmers
Management of Irrigation Systemsact are as follows:

• Classification of irrigation projects:

• Area of operation:
• Delineation of Water users area and distributory areas and

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126 . NEERU - MEERU

project areas:
• Conduct of elections:
• . Membership:
• Tiers of farmers organizations:
• Composition of water user association:
• Functions ofwater user associations:
Classificationof irrigation projects:
All the irrigation projects in the state have been classified
based on the command area as follows:
• Minor irrigation: upto 2000 hectares.
• Medium irrigation: 2000 to 10,000 hectares.
• Major irrigation: more.than 10,000 hectares.
Area of operation:
Area of operation in relation to a farmers organisation means
a contiguous block of land in the command area of an irrigationsystem
as may be notified for the purpose of the act. Thus every water user
association, a dlstributory committee and a project committee will
have an area of operation notified which forms the basis Of exercising
their powers.
Delineation of Water usersarea and distribotory areas.·· .
and project areas:
. For the purpose of carving out ..the jurisdictions of various .
organisations, the respective areas of operationhave to be delineated
on a hydraulic basis. Hydraulic basis means
.
the basis for identifying.
a viable irrigated area served by one or more structures such as .
headwork's, distributaries, minors, pipe outlets etc. Farmers
organizations is a generic term and includeswater users associations
. .
at the primary level, distributory committee at the distributory level
and the project committee at the project level. In respect of a tank or
a lift irrigation scheme the entire ayacut is delineated into one water

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 lnstitutional and Administrative 127
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users area. However in respect of major and medium projects, a

group of minors or direct pipe outlets would constitute the water users
.. are. While 80% of the tanks are less than 200 acres some of the
tanks have an ayacut of about 6000 acres also. In major irrigation
projects the WUA area would range from about 3000 Acres (SRSP
Project) to as high as 8000 acres in the Godavari delta system which
is more than 100 years old. In delineating the area of operation care.
has been taken to ensure that village, gram panchayat and mandai
boundaries are as far as possible are preserved. Delineation is a .
very detailed procedure and requires a lot of patience and
understanding of the area and is done on a hydraulic basis.
Cond.uctof elections:
The act provides for elections to the water user association,
the distributory committee and the project committees after the area
of operation of each of the committees is notified. Accordingly
elections have been conducted to 10,292 Water user associations in
.the state and about 174 distributory committees. It is also proposed .
to conduct elections to the project committees at a later date.
Membership: .
The act provides for two type of membership: .
• Members with voting rights: Those members who have been
registered as owners or tenants in the record of rights. In respect .
where both the owner and the tenant are landholders.in respect
of the same land, the rights are giver, to the tenant.
• Other water users: .All other members are categorised as other
water users who have no voting right. Water users have been
defined as any individual or body corporate or a society using
water for agriculture, domestic, power, non domestic commercial,
industrial or any other purpose from a government or the
corporation source of irrigation. This would include cultivators
who have not been recorded in the revenue records.

-----Dr.M.C.RHR.D Institute
ofAndhra
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128 NEERU - MEERU

a. The act provides for a detailed election procedure that is similar

to the gram panchayat election procedure but with some
modifications. The details of the election procedure are given in
the election manual as a part of the rules to the APFMIS ACT
Notification No 13, 3rd. May 1997 AP Gazette. (G.O. Ms 45,
Irrigation & CAD (CAD IV) dated 30-4-1997).
b. The manner in which election disputes are to be resolved have
been given in Notification No 35, 11th.September, 1997 AP
Gazette (G.O Ms No 130, Irrigation and command area
Development (CAD IV) Department, 8th.September 1997.
c. Disqualification's of persons who are not entitled to contest
for elections to the post of the farmers' organisations is provided
for under section 14 of the Act. No person holding a public post,
or a defaulter of land revenue, or of unsound mind, or a registered
contractor having a subslstinqcontractwithin the area of operation
of farmer's organizations is disqualified form contesting to the
post of President or a member of a managing committee of the
association.
d. The Act provides for RECALL under section 10~A chairman or
the member of the managing committee can be recalled by after
a period of one year by giving a written notice signed by not less
than one-third of the total number of members of the farmers
organization who are entitled to vote. The motion for recall is
carried with the support of a majority of the members present
and voting at a meeting specially convened for the purpose.
Tiers of farmers' organizations:
The term farmers' organization is used as generic term in the act
and includes a water user associationat the primary level a distributory
committee at the distributory level a project committee at the project
level and an apex committee level at the government to resolve any
disputes relating to the farmers organizations.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O ofAndhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 Institutional and Administrative 129
Arrangement In Neeru-Meeru Programme

Project
Nature of Water User Distributory
level
irrigation System Association. committee.
committee
Minor irrigation scheme Yes No No
(upto 2000 Ha)
Medium Irrigation Scheme Yes No Yes.
(2000 - 1000 Ha)
Major Irrigation scheme Yes Yes Yes
(more than 10,000 ha)
. Composition of water users association:
A water users area is divided into territorial constituencies
for the purpose of giving equitable representation to all areas in an
irrigation command, namely the head, middle and tail-end reaches.
Groups of outlets are clubbed into a territorial constituency. The
number of territorial constituency could vary depending upon the type
of the irrigation system and the extent of the command.
.A: Territorial constituencies:

No. of territorial constituencies in a minor irrigation scheme

(upto 2000 hal.
Upto 200 ha (500 acres) 4 territorial constituencies.
From 201 ha to 400 ha (1000 Ac) 6 territorial constituencies.
From 401 ha to 600 Ha (1500 Ac) 8 territorial constituencies
From 601 ha to 2000 Ha (5000 Ac) 10 territorial constituencies.
No. Of territorial constituencies in a major or medium
irrigation scheme.
Upto 1000 hectares. 4 territorial constituencies.
From 1001 to 1500 hectares. 6 territorial constituencies.
From 1501 to 2000 hectares. 8 territorial constituencies
More than 2000 hectares. 10 territorial constituencies.

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130 NEERU - MEERU

B: Membership:
Water users' Members with voting rights & other water users
Association whom do not have voting rights.
Distributory All the presidents of water users associations in
Committee a distributory area.
Project All the presidents of the distributory committee
Committee in a project area.
Functions of water user associations:
The detailed functions and objectives of the farmers' .
organizations is given in chapter III of the APFMIS ACT 1997. The
main functions being:
a. prepare and implernent a warabandi schedule for each irrigation
system consistent with
b. the operational plan prepared by the project committee or the
distributory committee as the case may be;
c. prepare a maintenance plan;
d. regulate the use of water and promote economy;
e. assist the revenue department in the preparation of demand and
.collection of water
f.· rates;
g; maintain a register of land holders;
h. maintain an inventory of the irrigation system;
i. monitor the flow of water for irrigation;
j. raise resources;
k. maintain accounts as prescribed;
I. cause audit of accounts & expenditures;
m. encourage avenue plantation along the bunds and irrigation
properties;
n. conduct general body meetings;
o. conduct water budgeting and social audit;

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Institute Pradesh-----
Institutional and Administrative 131
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

p. Resolve conflicts and compound offences.

q. Constitution of Subcommittees: With a view to strengthen the
WUA's and bring in greater involvement the APFMIS rules 1997,
permit the constitution of subcommittees such as
• Finance and resource sub-committees.- mobilise & collect
resources, maintain records.
• Works sub-committee- recommendestimates, administrative
approval, payments, execution and supervision of works.
• Water management sub-committee - check the canals and
drains, water management, record deliveries.
• Monitoring and evaluation subcommittee - .training,
evaluation, monitoring.
These committees would enable the farmers organisation to
decentralize its working. They would work under the general
supervision of the managing committee of the Farmers organisation.
r. Resources of the Water user associations: The main resources
of the water user associations shall be the grants given by the
government as a percentage of the water charges collected
by the water user association. In additionthe WUA has a power
to levy a fee under section of 20 of the Act. Otherfunds as received
from the central government as management subsidy or calamity
relief would also contribute to its resources besides resources
being raised from the usufruct of the irrigation properties such as
auction of usufruct from tree leases and rents on irrigation
properties.
s. Levy of fees by the WUA. The Act empowers farmers'
organisationto levy a fee to achieve the objectsof the organisation
or in performing its functions. All the members are mandated to
pay the amounts as decided by the general body of the farmers'
organisation.
t. Bank Account to be maintained by a WUA:_Every farmers
organisation shall open a bank account which shall be jointly

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132 NEERU-MEERU

operated by the President and a member of the managing

committee. The account shall be opened in a nationalized bank.
u. Competent authority of the WUA: With a view to bring in greater
accountability in the irrigation department, the Act provides for
the appointment of a competent authority who may be an officer
of the irrigation department or any other department. This has
been mainly incorporated to ensure that the partnership between
the irrigation, revenue and agriculture departments focus on the
WUA's as an entity. The Chief engineer and the Superintending
engineer shall constantly monitor the works and the progress of
the water users associations.
v. Settlement of disputes: section 26 of the Act provides for the
settlement of disputes by the managing committee of the farmers'
orqanlsation themselves. The managing committee of the
distributory committee shall determine a dispute arising between
a member and the managing committee of the water user
association or between two or more water users associations.
The managing committeeof the projectcommittee shall determine
a dispute or difference arising between a member and the
managing committee of a distributory committee or between two
distributory committees.The apex committeewhose decisionshall
be final shall determine a dispute between a member and the
managing committee of a project committee or between two or
more project committee.
w. Appeals: with a view to reduce time delay appeals have been
provided for to the next higher level whose decision shall be final.
Thus the distributory committee shall be the final level for appeal
in the case of a WUA and the project level committee for a
distributory committee and the apex committee for the project
committee. The appeal must be preferred within 15 days of the
order to the person aggrieved. Every appeal shall be disposed of
within 15 days from the date of filing of the appeal.
x. Offences and penalties: Chapter V of'the APFMIS Act 1997

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Institutional and Administrative 133
Arrangement in Neeru-Meeru Programme

provides for a comprehensive list of offences and penalties. The

offences relate to damaging or obstructing a system, interfering
with the water supply, corrupts or fouls the water, obstructs or
removes any water level marks or measuring devices on
conviction shall be punishedwith imprisonmentwhich may extend
upto two years or with fine which may extend to five thousand
rupees. The farmers organisation under section 25 have been
given the power to compound the offence with a sum not
exceeding one thousand rupees as compounding fee.
y. Maintenance of registers and records: every farmers
organisations shall maintain registers and records. This is to
systematize the working of the farmers organization. This would
also enable them to audit their accounts and also check their
own properties.
1. Property Registers:Inventoryregister, miscellaneousproperty
register.
2. Register of Member
3. Water flows/ level register
4. Ayacut register
5. Register of administrative sanctions
6. Register of technical clearance
7. Cashbook, receipt book, bill register
8. Minutes book
Conclusion:-
For ages together, the farmers in traditionally and in an informal
way without least guidanceor interferencefrom the government. They
have been carrying on distribution of water for irrigating their crops.
They have developed this system .and adhere to the system
contributing labour and sometimes money and material things in
desilting the canals, the irrigation tanks, and other sources of water.
Now, with the advent of the irrigation policy the emergence of water
users' associations is a formalized institutional arrangement over the
traditional way of collective responsibility on the part of the farmers

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NEERU - MEERU

under the irrigation system. We may point out that this is an essential
arrangement brought out by the government. There is no other
alternative, ultimate beneficiaries are the farmers and they should
own up the responsibility and. now to a great extent the onus of
maintenance of irrigation system depends on the water users'
associations.
SOURCE:
1. http://www.ap.gov.in/apirrigation/acts/policy.htm
2. 'Water Users' Associations' from www.andhrapradesh.com
3. http://www.ap.gov.in/apirrigation/acts/acts.htm

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D lnstitute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 7
WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAMME
The total geographical area of our country is 329 million
hectares. While at one end 50% of our lands are degraded, at the
ather, nearly'40% of our people are poor orbelow poverty line. With
proper planning, scientific approach and efficient management, it is
possible to increase the productivity of the degraded lands, while
'creating huge employment opportunities for the poor. It is now firmly
.bellevedthat the development of degraded lands is an important input
required for eradication of poverty.
Andhra Pradesh is the fifth largest State in India, both in terms
of area and population. The State is situated,between 12° 37' and
19° 54' North Latitude and 76° 46' and 84° 46' East Longitude. The
State has an area of 0.275 million sq. kms. It has tropical to sub-
tropical climate. The coastal area COversa length of 972 kms.and
therefore, it has humid and semi-humid conditions. The maximum
and minimum mean temperatures are 38.95° C and 15.65° C
,respectively.
WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT - INITIAL STAGES
In order to combat the frequent recurrence of drought in the
State,Drought ProneArea Programme(DPAP)was introducedduring
the year 1976,as a Centrally SponsoredScheme (CSS) with matching
state share of 50:50. IntegratedWasteland Development Programme '
(IWDP) was introduced during, 1991 with 100% central assistance.
The wasteland development programmes taken up before April 1995
and not performed well, mainly because they had been planned and
implemented on departmental basis by government officials and in
isolated patches,without any regardfor the completemicro-watershed
principle or for people's participation.

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136 NEERU - MEERU

The programmes of dry land development in Andhra Pradesh

have undergone a major change from 1995-96 with the introduction
of new watershed guidelines, based on the recommendations of Dr.
Hanumantha Rao's Committee Report. The main principle adopted
in the guidelines laid special emphasis on the active mobilization and
participation of the stakeholders in the programme including planning,
implementation and subsequent management.
WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT - A GREAT OPPORTUNITY

A great opportunity exists for improving the productivity,

profitability and sustainability of dry farming areas through social
mobilization. Rain fed agriculture should be based on watershed as
the unit of development to become productive. Watershed is not a
technology but a concept, which integrates conservation,
management and budgeting of rainwater through simple but discrete
hydrological units. Simultaneously, a watershed supports a holistic
framework, which means the combined application of technologies
on soil and water conservation with improved crop varieties, farming
systems and agronomic management,taking into account both arable
and non-farm land. Water resource development, management,
harvesting and equity in sharing, form the nucleus of watershed
development. With assured availabilityof water, farmers get motivated
to accept more profitable,sustainableand innovativefarming systems.
Water availabilityhas also catalyzedthe adoptionand spread of value-
added activities in the entire area of the watershed, such as
horticulture. Cropping systems need to be tailored to suit different
rainfall-cum-soil zones. Watershed development is the only solution
to ensure drought proofing and to mitigate the distress caused by
frequent droughts.
Watershed Management as a'Social Organization Problem1

A watershed (or catchment) is a geo-graphic area that drains

to a common point, Which makes it an attractive unit for technical
efforts to conserve soil and maximize the utilization of surface and

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Watershed Development Programme 137

subsurface water for crop production. A watershed is also an area

with administrative and property boundaries, lands that fall under
different property regimes, and farmers whose actions may affect
each other's interests. Boundaries defined by humans, however,
normally do not match biophysical ones. In watershed management
projects, mechanical or vegetative structures are installed across
gullies and rills and along contour lines, and areas are earmarked for
particular land use based on their land capability classification.
Cultivable areas are put under crops according to strict principles of
con-tour-based cultivation. Erosion-prone, less favorable lands are
put under perennial vegetation. This approach aims to optimize
moisture retention and reduce soil erosion, thus maximizing
productivity and minimizing land degradation. Improved moisture
management increases the productivity of improved seeds and
fertilizer, so conservation and productivity-enhancing measures are
complementary.
Excess surface runoff water is harvested in irrigation or
percolation tanks while sub-surface drainage recharges groundwater
aquifers, so conservation measures in the upper watershed have a
positive impact on productivity in the lower watershed. Reducing
erosion in the upper reaches also helps to reduce sedimentation of
irrigationtanks (ponds) in the lower reaches. The watershed approach
enables planners to harmonize the use of soil, water, and vegetation
in a way that conserves these resources and maximizes their
productivity. This systems-based approach is what distinguishes
watershed management from earlier plot-based approaches to soil
and water management.
Socio-economic relationships among people in a watershed
can complicateefforts to introduceseeminglystraightforwardtechnical
improvements. This is because a watershed encompasses many
decision makers who are affected unequally by development. When
a watershed project is introduced, often the bulk of the work is done
in the upper reaches, while the benefits accrue primarily to those in

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NEERU - MEERU

the lower reaches. For example, revegetating the upper reaches

involves imposing a ban on both grazing of animals and felling of
trees so that plants can become established, As a result, the people
who use the upper watershed-typically relatively poor people with
little or no land-bear the brunt of the costs of watershed development,
which mainly benefitswealthier farmers in the lowerwatershed. Those
who are made worse off by a watershed project can undermine its
efforts if they refuse to go along with it. Herders, for example, might
refuse to abide by grazing bans and trespass on the common lands
if they can. In general, watershed technologies are likely to fail if they
divide benefits unevenly but require near-universal cooperation to
make them work. In this case, equity becomes a prerequisite to
efficiency (Kerr and Sanghi 1992).

How Economic Forces Determine Proiect Outcomes

Improving agricultural production, natural resource
management, and human welfare depends on economic factors
beyond the control of a watershed project. Throughout the world,
. both today and historically, it is easy to find areas with a broad range
of performance in agricultural growth, natural re-source management,
and poverty alleviation.
NGOs in Andhra Pradesh:-NGOs in rural Andhra Pradesh have
traditionally focused on the problems of scheduled castes, backward
classes, and scheduled tribes. Caste structure is more dichotomized
in Andhra Pradesh than in Maharashtra, with more villages in which
one or two large landowning families control large tracts of land while
many families are landless. As a result, NGOs typically focused on
activities that were not land-based, such as developing and
strengthening local credit institutions. With the rise of watershed
development as a focal point for rural development, some NGOs
gradually adopted it into their project portfolio.
In recent decades Andhra Pradesh has had successive
waves of large-scale privatization of common lands, wherein landless

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Watershed Development Programme 139

and near landless people were given legal but nontransferable title
to common lands (Pender and Kerr 1999). Many NGOs expanded
their credit and other income-generation activities to support
agriculture on the privatized land, much of which is of low quality.
When they expanded into a watershed approach, they also began to
work with farmers with higher quality land. But as a result of their
primary orientation to-ward helping poor, landless people, these
watershed agencies tend to be committed to making landowners pay
for work done on their own property. For example,while mostprojects
in Maharashtra and the centrally funded government programs
typically ask for no more than a 10 percent contribUtionfrom farmers
for work done on their private lands, some NGOs in Andhra Pradesh
require a more substantial contribution. Some of the implications of
this policy are discussed in the section on land improvement
investments.
MYRADA, a Karnataka-based NGO operating in Andhra
Pradesh, focuses on building consensus among different interest
groups in a watershed to a much greater extent than Maharashtran
NGOs. Because the costs and benefits of watershed development
are often. spread unevenly, project implementation can be difficult, .
especially where socio-economic diversity is high. MYRADA
addresses this problem by helping communities develop mechanisms
to compensate those who lose, so that they will cooperate for the
greater good.
In all of its rural development projects, MYRADA organizes
people into small, homogeneousgroups working toward one common
purpose. In the context of watersheds, they start with "mini-
watersheds" of no more than a few hundred hectares and a hundred
farmers. Within the mini-watershed, MYRADA helps form small sub-
groups of farmers based on homogeneity of location, socioeconomic
conditions, or interests. These groups all belong to a larger micro-
watershed group. This preserves the participatory. and socially
functional character of the smaller, homogeneous sub-groups, while

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140 NEERU - MEERU

also retaining advantages of scale in planning watershed works and

interacting with government agencies, banks, and input suppliers.
The larger group pro-vides a vehicle for airing complaints and settling
disputes among people from different subgroups.
Shramdan is intended to foster a spirit of self-sufficiency and
interdependence. In theory, when villagers observe the benefits of
the physical works they have helped create for watershed
development, they have a sense of satisfaction and achievement.
They also feel responsible for maintaining the structures. in which
they have invested their own labor. Shramdan is also seen as a good
way of getting people together to work for the welfare of the entire
community.
NGOs play an important role in the AGY. People in each
village select a local NGO to help them implement the different
development activities and adhere to the social principles. The NGO
also maintains records and accounts and monitors the project
activities. In addition, the NGO coordinates with the government
departments at the state level to access funding and technical
guidance. The Jal Sandharan Department, meanwhile, implements
the technical work.
Funds under the project are to be used for two main types of
activities: watershed development (the core activity) and other
development activities (non-core activities). The latter are carried
out by the appropriate government agency, in consultation with the
people of the village. Government departments are supposed to give
. AGY villages preference in providing services, taking steps to reduce
corruption and peripheral expenses.
It is important to note that shramdan has a long history in
Maharashtra and is considered culturally appropriate. In other areas,
other means of promoting cooperation and social discipline may be
preferred. In southern Rajasthan, for example, Seva Mandir insists
that villagers reverse all illegalencroachmenton common lands before

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Watershed Development Programme 141

they will undertake work there.

Each NGO has its own guidelines, but virtually all of them
stress working in poverty-stricken areas, often inhabited by tribal
groups. MYRADA's guid'elines are instructive. It operates in remote,
unfavorable areas, usually in the border areas of a state, far from the
state capital, which are relatively neglected by state-level development .
programs. They have the worst land, the worst infrastructure, and
the least well-off inhabitants. The typical MYRADA village has very
different characteristics from those in the NWDPRA project sites de-
scribed above.
MYRADA also avoids watershed development where. more
than 10 percent of the population is landless for fear that it would be .
impossible to generate sufficient benefits for them. Protecting
livelihoods while restricting access to common lands might- not be
feasible. Inrecognition of the potential equity tradeoffs involved with
watershed development, MYRADA undertakes other kinds of
development activities in such areas.
On the other hand, a few NGOs, such as Chaitanya and
MYRADA in Andhra Pradesh, have explicitly aimed to develop
innovative solutions to the problem of managing common lands. They
try to build the interests of different groups into the project design at "
the outset. For example, in some projects landless people are granted
fishing rights in the water bodies protected by soil conservation and
revegetation of the common lands. Unlike in Maharashtra, landless
and near-landless respondents in Andhra Pradesh unanimously
reported having benefited from NGO projects.
Two NGOs in Andhra Pradesh, on the other hand, required
a much more substantial farmer's contribution on private land.
Chaitanya required a 50 percent contribution while MYRADA had
recently introduced a 33 percent requirement. In some villages not
included in this study, MYRADA has experimented with zero subsidies
for work on private land (Fernandez.1998). Chaitanya and MYRADA

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142 NEERU - MEERU

offered lower subsidies in recognition that the farmer would be the

primary beneficiary of the work and that farmers would certainly pay
attention to its quality if they helped pay for it. There was no
contribution for work done on common land.
(1. Source:- John Kerr, in collaboration with Ganesh Pangare and
Vasudha Lokur Pangare Research Report 127, International Food
Policy Research Institute,Washington, DC. ; http://www.ifpri.orgipubs/
abstractl127lrr127.pdO

GENEALOGY OF POLICY - BRIEFHISTORY OF RESOURCE

MANAGEMENT AND EMERGENCEOF CURRENT POLICY 2
Watershed development is as old as agriculture itself. There
are ancient traditions of collective, vlllaqe-levei water harvesting and
distribution, soil conservation, and grazing and forestland
management in every part of India. Some are still visible today, but
generally these collective management traditions have declined.
Explanations put the blame variously on the Colonial administration,
the Post-IndependenceGovernment's assumption of control of local
resource management, and the rise of economic individualism and
market orientation.
Successive Indian Governments have recognised the value
of watershed development, and have often sought to promote this
where it is lacking.The earliest exampleof concerted soil conservation
measures in India is the Bombay Plan of 1939. In more recent times
watershed development has become a central focus for rural
development in India, for a number of reasons:
lncreases in agricultural production in India over the 1990s
have reached a plateau, mainly due to stagnation in green revolution
areas. The Government has thus looked to develop rainfed areas to
take up the momentum for productivity growth.
It has become clear that land degradation is becoming a

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Institute Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 143

serious threat across the country requiring urgent attention. With the
increasing pressure of the growing human and cattle population,
deforestation, erosion of soil, indiscriminateuse of chemical fertilisers,
pesticides and also of water, a severe threat has been caused to the
eco-system. About 15 percentof India'sgeographicalarea (329 million
ha) may be defined as degraded.
There has been a rising demand for water and a tendency
toward over-extraction of groundwater, with little concern for
commensurate improvements in harvesting and use of the
increasingly precious water resources available.
Efficientand sustainableuse of natural resourceshas become
the sine qua non for economic development, especially in resource-
poor countries, and all the more so in agriculturally dominated
economies like India, where two-thirds of the cropped area is
dependent on rainfall without any protective irrigation facilities. The
promotion of appropriate technologies and development strategies
in rainfed regions could potentially result in multiple benefits such as .
by ensuring food security, enhancing the viability of farming and
improving the ecological balance.
The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) is not the only
Ministry that has a watershed development programme: the Ministry
of Agriculture and the Ministry of Environmentand Forest have similar
schemes. All the respective ministries at the Central and State level
have laid down the basic guidelines for operationalising watershed
deveiopment, stipulating the norms, funding patterns, technical
components and organisational arrangements. The guidelines
developed at the Central level have wider manifestations, as these
are applicable to the watershed programmes being implemented
throughout the country.
There. are now a number of watershed development
programmes proceeding, through which over $500 million per year
is being invested in micro-watershed rehabilitation.

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14<: NEERU - MEERU

Some milestones In the development of the watershed

approach:
The Ministry of Rural Development (MRD) at the national
level framed the guidelines for implementation of the DPAP through
watershed approach in 1978.
The Task Force on Integrated Agriculture Development in
Drought Prone Areas strongly emphasised the adoption of watershed
approach while implementing the DPAP during the Fifth Five Year
Plan (1974-79).
The Desert DevelopmentProgramme(1977-78)also adopted
the approach for its implementation, which concentrates on
reforestation activities to prevent the expansion of hot and cold
deserts.
The National Wasteland Development Board (NWDB) also
advocated the watershed approach in the implementation of the
IntegratedWatershed DevelopmentProject(1987),which emphasises
the development of non-forest wastelands through silvipasture and
soil and water conservation measures.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Gol has been implementing the
National Watershed Development Programme in Rainfed Areas
(NWDPRA) since 1990,with the aim of improving production potential
in rainfed areas, according to the 1990 Central Ministry of Agriculture
watershed development (WARASA) guidelines. The NWDPRA
concentrates on the development of arable lands for improving their
production potential. The WARASA guidelines were issued in the
light of the suggestions made by the committee of secretaries
constituted to review the programme.
The revised programme gave importance to planning for the
watershed, and under primary activities the preparation of a complete
plan of the watershed was included.
The programme was made more people-oriented, and

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Watershed Development Programme 145

participation of beneficiaries was encouraged through 'Mitra Kisan'

and 'Gopal' initiatives.
The technical bias of the programme was reduced and the
programme was directed more towards providing economic benefits.
The programme was increased in its coverage and had an
inherent monitoring and evaluation component.
The implementation of DPAP and Desert Development
Programme (DDP) has been reviewed from time to .tirne, by the
following committees set up by the Central government:
• Inter-departmental Group on DPAP and DDP (1984).
• National Committee on DPAP and DDP (1988), (Y.K. Alagh
and L.C. Jain Committee).
• Task Force on DPAP and DDP (Swaminathan Committee,
1992).
• Technical Committee on DPAP and DDP (Hanumantha Rao
Committee, 1994).
The MRD's 1994guidelinesspecifically prioritiseparticipatory
approaches to watershed management,and the MRD strictly adopted
these guidelines from 1995-96 onwards.
In the same area a number of government agencies may be
working as well Non- Governmental Organisations and bilateral and
multilateral donors.

Key Pieces of Enabling Legislation and the Establishment

of Existing Legislation

It is important to remember that there is no formal legislation

existing for watershed development. There are only guidelines which
are evolving over time through the learning process and pressure
from funding agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and
academics.
There may be a need for legislation in the future to ensure

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146 NEERU - MEERU

the sustainability of the watershed programme, in terms of

guaranteeingthe rights on the resources like water and other common
property resources (CPRs). In this context one can talk about
legislations de-linking water rights from land, equity in sharing the
other CPR benefits such as grazing, fuelwood, entrusting the
watershed programme to Panchayat Raj (local government) bodies
or ensuring longer-term existence of Watershed associations.
Resources
The poor natural resources base of the inland areas
contributes to the area's poverty: poor soils, low and erratic rainfall,
limited infrastructure and irrigation, often-declining groundwater and
little support to agricultural enterprise. Cyclones are a common
phenomenon. Although, the average annual rainfall is good, some of
the districts in Rayalaseema, Telangana regions and some of the
coastal districts face recurring drought.
There are extensive areas of rainfed agriculture in AP which
could potentially benefit from the sort of watershed development
approaches seen elsewhere. Rainfed agricultural land is the primary
livelihood resource for most farmers. Landholding distribution varies
between villages, and there is widespread incidence of inequality in
land distribution. Most cultivators are either small or marginal farmers
and since a holding of at least two hectares is requiredfor a household
to derive subsistence, most of them are at risk.
Water supply is the key variable affecting cropping pattern
and intensity. Where irrigation is possible paddy and groundnut are
the main crops cultivated. Where irrigation is not available, maize,
millet, pulses (e.g. red gram) are cultivated. In unirrigated fields
farmers are exposed to a major economic risk if the monsoon fails.
There has been a recent increase in borewell drilling in dry
areas of Andhra Pradesh, as a proliferation of machinery has forced
down the cost. This increase in borewells has led to an increase in
the irrigated area. There is concern that, in conjunction with unreliable

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 Watershed Development Programme 147

rains over the last decade, the pattern of increased groundwater

extraction may be unsustainable, without effective rainwater
harvesting. Although there is little systematic data so far, groundwater
levels are felt to be declining in many areas. There is a need for
some form of regulation of groundwater extraction, particularly to
secure drinking water supplies.

Key Policy Issues and Relationship with Livelihoods

Obiectives and Concepts of Policy

In the light of successful experiments the watershed

development model has gained currency. The logic runs as follows:
In rainfed farming areas, a comprehensive land improvement
programme at the watershed and micro-watershed level, through
emphasizing improved water harvesting and soil conservation, will
lead to the sort of agricultural productivity benefits associated with
irrigated areas, as well as securing drinking water supplies. The main
approach has been through land-improvement structures such as
check-dams, infiltration dams and contour trenching amongst others.
Traditional water harvesting and soil conservation structures, as well
as tree plantations may also playa role. From the initial conditions,
with these land-improvement structures, and given sufficient rain over
a number of years, it is anticlpated that the ground and surface water
will recharge giving an improved hydrological regime. This in turn will
allow more ground and surface water extraction, an extension of
irrigated area, double and even triple cropping, and so higher land
productivity. This should lead to a more dynamic village economy
and diversified livelihood opportunities. It is also hoped that
agricultural practices may move onto a more sustainablebasis - with
less water-demanding crops.
The watershed development policy, as it has become
manifest in the most recent DPAP approach, has six stated technical
aims:

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148 NEERU-MEERU

• Regenerate, preserve and utilise natural resources (water,

soils and vegetation) sustainably.
• Improve the catchment protection, reduce erosion, improve
moisture retention in priority catchments.
• Ensure community participation throughout the project cycle.
• Establish and strengthen local institutions so that they are
able to support the local population.
• Increase.employment opportunities and level and security of
incomes including those of poor families and landless and
women.
• Increase alternate livelihood opportunities with specific focus
on women, poor and landless.

Patterns of Livelihood Dependency on Resources

The watershed programme envisages a great opportunity
for improving the productivity, profitability and sustainability of dry
farming areas through social mobilization. Water resource
development, management, harvesting and equity in sharing, form
the nucleus of watershed development.
With assured availabilityof water, farmers become motivated
to accept more profitable,sustainableand innovativefarming systems.
Water availabilityhas also catalysedthe adoptionand spread of value-
added activities in the entire area of the watershed, such as
horticulture. Cropping systems need to be tailored to suit different
rainfall-cum-soil zones. Watershed development is the only solution
to ensure drought prooflnq and to mitigate the distress caused by
frequent droughts.
Whilst agriculture remains the primary livelihood activity for
most rural householdsin AP, there is a diversityof householdlivelihood
strategies, due both to the differences in land and other resource
endowments and different opportunities. In villages where there is
more equal landholdingmost householdsare smallfarmers. In villages

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 Watershed Devulopment Programme 149

where there is more concentrated landholding there is a greater

incidence of tenant farmers and landless labourers. There are a variety
of complimentary livelihood activities, such as livestock holding, and
seasonal migration for labour.

Policy Process:A Political Narrative

Formal Role and Responsibilities of Main Institutions
As mentioned above the recommendations of the Rao
Committee have been adopted for implementing watershed
development programmes since 1995-96. These field implementation
guidelines are discussed in detail below.
Selection of Districts

The watershed programmes are being implemented in 337

districts of India under DPAP, DDP and Integrated Watershed
Development Programme (IWDP) under 1994 guidelines (table 7.1a).
These districts were categorised by Gol by environmental, social and
developmental indicators. High priority is accorded to low-rainfall
regions with concentration of scheduled castes (SC) and scheduled
tribes (ST) and low literacy rates. (Please see Figure 7.1 a for
Organisational Structure).

At central level The MRD releases the fund to the concerned

State Governments to implement the watershed programme at state
level (according MRD guidelines).
At state level the Watershed Programme Implementation and
Review Committee is constituted under the Chairmanship of the Chief
Secretary, Additional Chief Secretary, Agricultural Production
Commissioner and Development Commissioner. Secretaries and
Heads of Departments of related departments, Vice-Chancellors of
the State Agricultural Universities, Directors of a few state level training
institutes like Institute of Administration or Management Institute, five
orslx representatives of important NGOs and voluntary organisations
are taken as the members of this committee. The Department of

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute

of Andhra
Pradesh,-----
150 NEERU-MEERU

Rural Development (DRDA) is the nodal agency to service this

Committee.
At district level the Zilla Parishad (ZP) and DRDA (depending
on the State) is responsible for administration and implementation of
watershed development projects. They receive the funding directly
from the Government of India. They select the Project Implementing
Agents (PIAs) and approve the watershed plans. They hold the
ultimate power of administrative and financial control over PIAs,
releasing the funds to PIAs and laying down the guidelines for
managing the accounts, for instance. They also' establish the
watershed development advisory committee at the district level. The
committee consists of three to four departmental heads from different
disciplines of the government in ZP and DRDA, five to six members
of voluntary agencies and one to two members from the research
and training institutions at the district level. The committee advises
on the selection of PIAs and members of the Watershed Development
Team (WDT) and various other aspects.
The Government departments, Panchayati Raj Institutions,
Universities, Voluntary Organisations and Research Institutes would
be involved as PIA for implementi~g the programme. Ultimately, as
per the guidelines, the role of PIA should be shifted to Panchayati
Raj Institutions once the 73m constitutional amendment is adopted.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstituteof AndhraPradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 151

0
Review meet twice in a
year
Power 10 relax COlli
14--
SI.I. W.lenlled ProV ......
l .. pl ....... IIo." Review
Commillee
Ho Membm: Chi.fSceretary.
Deportment Heads. NGOs (5-6)

0 Scleclion of PIAl

··
0 Receives funds direcdy from Gol
Approval of WS pi...
Adminillrltive Ind
Finlncill Control
I ZPI DRDA: ZIIII
P.rllllld I DepL Of l 0
0
Rei ..... funds 10 PRJ" WDC
Guidelines for maintaining

I R.,.I Dev.lopm •• 1
I lCCOunts

;
· Advioe on .ligibility of
PlAondWDT
MDT:
MuItI-DIIcIpU •• ry
o.
0
3-4 depanmental heads
5·6 NGOs I PIAl Ind 1·2
membm ond other T_ researchers
aspccII of w...... hed

· Motivate ponchayllS 10 pus

resolution 10 make public
contributiOlll.
PIA:ProJecI
Impl· .. ··1ID1
AI·nl
0 NGO I GO I PRf(line agency)

· Conduct PRA IIJIdleI·up

inatitutionlllmUlgemcnll

0 4 member team (plantlCientisl,

·· Provide todmicll guidonce

Work. toward. loci.1
mobiliSltion and collective
WDT: W.ltnhed
Developm •• t
T_
Inintal_ husbondly. civil I agri.
engineer Ind socill scientist) with
professionll deIrees
action
0 Handles 10-12 _enheds

· Monitor and review

process Usullly pam ssbba

···
0
Approve ICCOunIl

.
WSA: Wllenlled
0 Rcaistered society
Resolve disputes 0 EICCIIill president
Aaod.tle.
Takina disciplinary lICIion M.... twice a year
0 Nominate memben of
WC

· Formation of SHOo "

UGs

· Key respOIIIibility for III

activjties of watershed
(meetings. funds. ete.)
WSA: W.ttnhed
S_ry
0
0
Full-time employee ofWSA
Usullly graduate
I
0 10-12 membm nominated by

· Work under supervision of

WCChairman 0
WSA:
From UGs: 4-S. SHGs:3-4.

· Looks after day·to·day

activities
WSA: W.tenlled
Commillee 0
Panchayat: 2·3. WDT: I
Rcpresenlllion for Women. SCI

· Responsible for coordinItion

/ <, ST and ComrrllDliti..

1
and liaison between
ponchayat, WDT. DRDA I
AP IIJIdGovt. agencies WSA:
C __W.t.,sbed
lllee I WSA: Watenlled
Co•• lnee

/' <,
. l Indirect
beneficiaries I Ho_1leIcb I Direct ..
benefi~Mi

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D cit Andhra

Institute Pradesh-----
Table 7.1 b: Summary of Ministry of Rural Development Watershed Treatment Guidelines

SI. Variations on Guidelines already

Item MRD guidelines
No. in operation in Andhra Pradesh

1 Objectives Economic development through

RNR in drought prone areas
2 Approach to Integrated treatment of both non
watershed arable and arable lands on
treatment watershed basis
3 Selection of On the basis of drought conditions Villages selected based on certain
watersheds in the area and a number of parameters and weightages
indicators which signify
backwardness
4 Size of the Only MWSs of 500 ha each are Contiguity with existing watersheds is
watersheds selected. In case of more than one favoured (and is one of the criteria z
m
m
MWs in a block, these need not used for watershed selection) ::0
c,
be contiguous :s:
m
5 Time period Four years m
::0
c
6 Selection of Where people's participation and Villages selected based on certain
villages voluntary contributions are parameters and weightages given to
forthcoming. The area should have each Parameter
acute shortage of drinking water,
preponderance of SC/ST population
and wastelands
7 Role ofNGOs Can be one of the implementing
agencies for a group of 10 or 12 MWS
8 Institutional A WatershedDevelopmentProgramme
arrangement Implementationand Review Committee
a) State level under the Chairmanship of the
Chief Secretary.
b) District level Usually either the DRDA or ZP is In AP a PD-DPAP has been
responsiblefor implementingprogrammes sanctioned in DPAP districts and this
at District level. A District Watershed person has responsibility for all
AdvisoryCommitteewhichoffer guidance watershed works. The PD-DPAP is
on issues of implementation, the Chairperson of the DWAC, which
including PIA selection; also has PIA representation
c) Watershed • One of the following can be selected A Multidisciplinary team to cover 50
level as the project-implementing agency watersheds (roughly division level)
at the watershed level. comprised of three senior and three
• The voluntary agencies (NGOS) assistant line department
• Agricultural Universities functionaries (forestry, engineering,
• Agricultural Research Institutions agriculture). Each PIA to fleld one
• Training Institutions multidisciplinary Watershed
• Corporations Development Team which covers up
• Co-operatives to 10 watersheds.
• Banks
• Public and Commercial organisations
• Panchayat Raj Institutions
• Government departments.
• A multidisciplinary watershed
development team to assist the PIA.
d) MWS level A micro-watershed association which
z
m
shall be a registered body; This will m
::0
be supported by a micro-watershed c
,
committee with representatives from s::
m
m
SHGs, UGs ::0
c
 :E.
9 Agency for Watershed Committee through the III
s
planning and SHG and UG. iil
zr

execution of
!
The Gram Panchayat links critical
MWS plans !
0"
"C
10 Approval of PD-DRDA and PIA 3
CD
MWS plans a
"0
11 Flow of funds Gol, MRD to DRDA GOI to PD-DRDA to PD-DPAP to t8iil
PIA/WC 3
3
12 Cost norms/ha Rs. 3000-3500, 5% CD

RNR cost / ha No provision

HRD Significant
NLBAs
NGO
13 Concept of cost Cost sharing: Compulsory, 5 percent
and benefit in respect of CPR and 10 percent in
sharing respect of private lands. Benefit
sharing: Not well defined
14 Maintenance of Concerned WDT to take care with
assets during the help of the micro-watershed ....
UI
UI
 ....
post project period committee. To support this activity, 01
(J)

a micro-watershed development fund

is proposed to be created and cost
contributions will go to this fund.

15 HRD A provision of 5 percent of the total

funds is made

16 Gender This question is addressed in the guide

lines but strategy has not been spelt
out clearly Experimentation with
involvement of women only SHGs
representatives in we beginning
17 Equity This question has been addressed
but the strategy is not well defined.

18 NLBAs No provision
Z
m
19 M&E Financial spending targets m
;0
c,
s::
m
m
;0
c
 Watershed Development Programme 157

At local level, local communities must form a Watershed Committee

(WC) in order to secure governmentfunding.These WCs get technical
support from a four-person WDT, who in turn are employed by a PIA.
The PIA may be a local government agency or an NGO (NGOs are
usually preferred by the DRDA), and it has a mandate to work with a
community for four years. During that time community resources are
built up, through saving schemes, to pay for long-term maintenance,
Each PIA is expected to handle 10-12 micro-watersheds, each
covering about 500 ha. The PIAs at District, SamitilManda/ and village
level can monitor and review the implementation of the programme
and give suggestionsand guidancefor improvementsin administrative
arrangements and for ensuring convergence of other developmental
programmes to supplement and complement the watershed
programmes. The Gram Panchayat shall be involved in community
organisation, training programmes, and formation of self-help groups
(SHGs) and user groups (UGs), development and sharing of common
property resources and operation and maintenance of existing and
created community assets.
The PIA will appoint the WDT, which consists of four.
members, one forester, one veterinarian, an engineer and a
community mobiliser for implementation. The WDT is responsible for
technical matters while planning and implementing the watershed,
apart.from mobilising and organising people for collective action.
At watershed level an associationof all the members of village
community, who directly or indirectly depend upon the watershed
area for their livelihood, is formed and registered as a Watershed
Association (WSA), under. the Registration of Societies Act. The
Association elects its own President and office bearers. There is a
demand that 'consensus' must be reached rather than going through
an election process. This is the responsibility of the WDT, especially
the social organiser. The watersned association in its first General
Body meeting nominates three to four representatives from SHGs
and four to five from user groups UGs as members of the WC, with

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

158 NEERU - MEERU.

adequate representation of women and SCs, STs and the Shepherd

Community. The Gram Panchayat nominates two to three members
and the WDT is requested to nominate one of its members for the
WC. The WSA meets as frequently as necessary but not less than
twice a year, to finalise and improve the projects and annual action
plans. TheWSAs monitorand review the implementationof watershed
development plans, resolve disputes and lay down procedures for
the operation and maintenance of community assets. In other words,
the WSAs exercise overall supervlslon and control over planning,
implementation and maintenance of watershed development works
and activities.
The WC elects one Chairman from its members who carries
out day-to-day activities of the WDPs as assigned by the WSA. The
WC also appoints a qualified local person as Secretary and three
volunteers (including a woman and a member from a ST or SC) to
assist the Committee in programme implementation and to maintain
the records and accounts. The WC is also responsible for co-
ordination and liasing with the Gram Panchayat. Formation of self-
help groups and user groups is vital in the institutional dynamics of
watershed management, as they provide the basis for collective
action. Broadly the households in a village can be grouped under
watershed (direct) beneficiaries and indirect beneficiaries.The former
will be organised into user groups by the WDT members, based on
common activity in the watershed. Similarly, indirect beneficiaries are
grouped into 10-15 member groups and formed as credit and thrift
societies or to initiate a livelihood activity.
Strategies of Implementation

The DPAP is being implemented in 17 of the 20 districts of

AP. Prior to the implementation of new watershed guidelines, an area
of4.19/akh ha of land was treated under DPAP in the state. However,
since the new watershed guidelines came into force in 1995, -over
3000 watersheds covering an area of 12/akh ha have beenintroduced

-'"----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 159

(other government schemes provided funds for other watersheds

taking the total to over 5000).
A major programmefor developmentof all the degraded lands
in AP over 10 years was launched during 1997 as the 10 Year
Perspective Plan. The action plan for development includeswetlands,
degraded lands (l.e. dry landswhich are being cultivated under rainfed
conditions) and degraded reserve forests. It is envisaged to develop
10 million hectares of degraded and wastelands, with an outlay of
about Rs. 4000 crores (US $ 888.89 million) from 1997 to 2007 at the
rate of 1 million hectares every year. About 2.7 million hectares have
already been covered under 5472 watersheds, which is the largest
number of any state in the whole country (Table 7.2a).

Table 7.2-a: Yearly Total of Watersheds under Implementation in AP

Total Area in
S.No. Year
Watersheds million ha
1. 1995-96 687 0.344
2. 1996-97 94 0.047
·3. 1997-98 628 0.314
4. 1998-99 2759 1.379
5. 1999-2000 1092 0.546
6. 2000-2001 212 0.106

Total 5472 2.736

After the launch of the 1O-yearperspectiveplan, another 5887
watersheds in wastelands and forestlands c9vering an area of 18.22
/akh ha have been added. As a result, as on 1st April 1998, an area
of 29 /akh ha involving an amount of Rs. 728.84 crores is under
implementation. It is also proposed to. take-up the development of
forestlands in villages falling within the boundary of watersheds. The
Watershed DevelopmentCommitteesor Vana Samrakshana Samithis
(VSS) have taken up the works according to the revised guidelines.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 160
NEERU-MEERU

The approach, as it is emerging, enables identification of the

wastelands superimposed by the village boundaries. Simultaneously,
mobilisation of the community into Self-help Groups has been taken
up all over the State. Of the total blocks 330 blocks have got a provision
of EmploymentAssurance Scheme (EAS) funds, 94 blocks are DPAP
Blocks and 16 Blocks (the whole of Anantapur District) are DDP
Blocks; all of which have been divided into 1104 Manda/s. Watershed
and related activities have to be carried in all these Manda/s with the
help of resources under NWDPRA, DPAP, and Joint Forest
Management (JFM).
The DPAP has mainly used funds allocated from central
government sources. Private land, forestland, community land, and
other CPRs are considered for watershed treatment. Whilst the
government provides the major part of funding for the works,
individuals within the community are also expected to contribute
towards the cost of works (about 10 percent). From these funds a
part is set aside for maintenance once the four-year implementation
phase is completed. The main activities taken up under the watershed
development programme include:
• Entry point activities (for example building bus shelters)
• Soil and moisture conservation (contour bunding, rock-filled
dams, brush-wood dams and gully control structures)
• Water harvesting structures (continuous contour trenching,
check dams, percolation tanks and farm ponds)
• Horticulture (plantation of appropriate species)
• Social and agro-forestry
• Pasture development
• Bio-gas and smokeless chutes (stoves)
• Self-employment revolving fund for thrift groups
The watershed development policy seeks to improve the
productivity of land resources and to this end both private and village

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 161

common (revenue) lands are treated. However, one of the major

categories of land ownership in India, forestland, is so far not directly
addressed. The potential linkages between these two are being
explored in Andhra Pradesh.

Decentralisation and the Local Institution

In recent times much emphasis has been placed on the
decentralisationstrategy as it is believedthat decentralisationof power
to the local units of government and management is one of the best
ways of empowering people, promoting public participation and
increasing efficiency. Institutions, both formal and informal, playa
crucial role in strengtheningthe decentralisationprocess at the cutting-
edge level. Panchayats, co-operatives; water users association and
VSSs form formal institutions,while institutionslike people'scollectives
and SHGs come under the rubric of the informal system. Different
approaches are used to explain various institutional arrangements
existing in rural areas. However, most of these studies pertain to
informal institutions at the local level. There are few studies that deal
with the role of formal or legal institutions such as PRI and JFM in
CPR management. This aspect assumes importance in the light of
the enhanced powers to PRI bodies after the 73rd constitutional
amendment.

Institutional Capacity to Implement Policies

The focus of the policy makers and implementing
bureaucracies is on ambitious, extensive coverage of a large number
of watersheds. As the watershed development approach depends
upon effective local participation, a high degree of inputs from a great
number of PIAs are required to implement the programme on a large
scale, and consequently it is necessary to identify good PIAs.
An intensive approach is followed by the established NGOs
(acting as PIAs), by devoting substantial time and energy towards
social development. For instance, in some of the villages where

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 162
NEERU - MEERU

Rayalaseema Development Trust (RDT) Is implementing the

watersheds beneficiaries contribute up to 30 percent of the costs as
against the mandatory 10 percent, however this is exceptional.
Field experience clearly indicates that there are a limited
number (perhaps only two or three) of 'good' PIAs in each district,
which can handle at most 36 watersheds at a time. But the number
of watersheds to be treated runs into hundreds in each district. In
order to cover this many watersheds DRDA is obliged to select lesser-
known NGOs as PIAs. This approach is not only resulting in the
proliferation of 'new' NGOs, but also affecting the quality of work, as
most of the government official PIAs can only work part-time. In some
cases the implementation of watersheds is thrust upon government
official PIAs due to 'new' NGOs being unable to cope with watershed
implementation. There is a widespread recognition that the capacity
of 'good' PIAs must be enhanced in order for them to take on the
responsibility for more watersheds as swiftly as possibJe.
Strengtheningthe social capital baseand ensuringcommunity
participation is a challenging job, demanding much time and effort
from the implementing agencies. It is widely acknowledged that
effective local participation ensures better implementation
performance. The form participation takes in practice is subject to
the ability and resources of the implementing agencies. Some define
it as voluntary participation of labour, cash or involvement in post-
implementation maintenance, and only a few NGO-Ied projects have
comprehensive participation in terms of community involvement in
design, execution, contribution (in cash or kind) and full take-over of
the maintenance responsibility. Kerr et al. (2000) found that only in
the case of comprehensive local involvement is the impact
sustainable.

Intra- and Inter-Sectoral PolicyLinks

Three sectors are closely linked as far as watershed
development is concerned: the DRDA, the Department of Agriculture

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
\

Watershed D$velopment Programme 163

\
and the Department of Irrigation. The Watershed programme is a
land-based programme to increase agricultural productivity through·
increased in situ moisture and protective irrigation, for the over-all
development of rural people. It is being implemented by the MRD,
with the.involvement of the Ministry of Agriculture but in practice there
is littlecoordinationbetweenthese two departments.This is necessary
because the Ministry of Agriculture is responsible for extension
services, which are critical in the changed soil conditions due to
watershed programmes.
Similarly there are potentials for coordination between
watershed associations and water user association which both work
towards efficient water management. In a number of villages there
are complaints that funds from watershed development are not
allowed to be used for clearing feeder channels to tanks (where it is
felt that repairing feeder channels is more beneficial compared to
watershed activity) as tanks fall under the purview of water user
association and the irrigation department. This goes against the
priorities of the local community.
A key potential link for watershed development is with JFM
initiatives. Firstly in order that soil and water conservation methods
can be applied to forest land lying within the watershed to be treated;
and secondly to strengthen the livelihoods of those most dependent
on forest resources. In AP there has been energetic efforts in this
direction.
Outcomes and Impacts for Livelihoods
There is an implicit tension between the objectives of
improving land resources and ensuring equitable benefits from
disbursements, under conditions where land ownership is unequal.
Studies (based on watersheds treated prior to 1995) have
shown that although the water table has risen, these benefits have
not accrued to poor and landless people. Similarly, it is not clear
whether the increase in employmentopportunities,benefitinglandless

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 /
164 NEERU - MEERU

and land-poor labourers, is due only to the temporary project works,

or due to a more significant long-term rise in labour demand due to
an increase in cropping.
The Andhra P.desh !lural Livelihoods Project (APRLP)
seeks to resolve this question through the 'Watershed Plus' approach,
involving both land-rich and land-poor in project activities. Analysis
of impacts must await thorough field research. However there are
some tentative findings and there have been a number of studies
which have focused on the distribution of costs and benefits in
watershed development.
Given the magnitude and spread of the watershed
development programmes, a number of research studies were
undertaken to examine the ecological and economic impact of these
programmes across the country. An overwhelming majority of the
studies have endorsed the programme in terms of costs and benefits.
Some of them also highlightedthe less quantifiableecologicalbenefits.
These studies not only vindicated the economic viability of the
programme but also underlined the fact that iris the only alternative
for the development of rainfed agriculture in India. In fact, some of
the studies even proved that watershed development programmes
score over the traditional intervention programme, the Centrally
Sponsored Schemes, like the Integrated Rural Development Project
(IRDP), Jawahar Rojgar Yojana and National Rural Employment
Programme (NREP) in terms of employment generation and natural
capital regeneration in moderately degraded regions. In fact, it was
suggested that Jawahar Rojgar Yojana should adopt the watershed
development programmes instead of taking up purely employment
generating programmes. Moreover, the desirability of watershed
development programmes lies in their ability to provide long run
ecological sustainability.
Although the economics of watershed technology is
unambiguously in its favour, the magnitude of its impact differs across

-----:--Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 165

regions and locations. The impact of watershed technology is

observed to be more effective in scarcity regions when compared to
assured rainfall regions. On the other hand,adoptionof the technology
itself might be a difficult proposition in extreme scarcity conditions.
For example, poor households living on the margin may not be able
to afford to follow conservation practices such as ceasing to graze
their animals. The technology adoption problems are mainly due to
the long time span required before the benefits are accrued.
Further,the favourable picturedepicted by most of the studies
is due to selection bias (purposively selecting a successful watershed
programme for evaluation). In reality the success rate in some of the
states can be as low as 25 percent. A deep understanding of these
differences highlights that watershed management ought to be
differentiated from watershed development.
Impacts on Livelihoods and Poverty: The Broad Impact to
Date
The direct benefits of watershed development activities have
so far been mainly to the landowning beneficiaries (usually men),
whereas landless people (and women) receive only indirect benefits
from wage employment during the implementation cycle. This has
been the nature of the programme to date, and an issue which the
'Watershed Plus' approach seeks to change.
The key question with watershed development is whether
there is a medium to longer-term benefit once the water-harvesting
structures are in place. Some studies (MANAGE, 2000) suggest rapid
and high benefits. Whilst this may be true in the case of the best-
managed watersheds, generalising such findings may be premature.
For, only in a few of the first of the watersheds (1995-96) was the
implementation fully completed by May 2000. Given the nature of the
technology, which requires long gestation, it is too early to judge the
economic impact of the programme.
It is the process of implementation rather the technology per

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
166 NEERU - MEERU

se that determines the sustainability of the programme. For, although

the technology is reasonably reliable, its impact on livelihoods is
contingent upon the appropriate placement of structures and the
maintenance of those structures over the longer term, which in turn
depends on the strength and sustainability of the social capital built
during the process of implementation.Technically, the key to success
is ensuring that the physical works are appropriate to the hydrological
regime. Socially, the key to success is community planning that
functions in a way that ensures a longer-termvision of local watershed
development prevails.
The impacts, social and economic, are critically dependent
on a number of key factors: chiefly the sensitivity and appropriateness
of implementation activities to the actual village circumstances and
needs. Where these are good significant medium term benefits are
apparent. Various studies indicate that this appears to be occurring
mainly where the PIA is an NGO with a longer-term prior presence in
the village. On the other hand, government PIAs have less time, and
less personal identification and linkages with the villages in which
they are working. They are also less likely to have facilitation skills
necessary for inclusive group discussion and planning.
As far as the-overall economic impact is concerned it is too
early to see any conspicuous change. Even the optimistic farmers
have a wait-and-see attitude. On the other hand, some impact is
visible, in terms of availability of in situ moisture and water for longer
periods in the vicinity of check dams. In fact, some of the enterprising
farmers are making use of it by planting horticultural crops in the
hither to degraded lands. Whilst, there is no doubt about the positive
economic impact of watershed technology, as long as it is
implemented properly, it is too early to observe in a tangible way.
There is a direct link between the quality of the PIA's
performance and the economic impact. Positive economic impacts
are visible in the places where PIAs have been more sincere in social

of Andhra
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 167

mobilisation activities. These differences exist in all the districts.

Further, there are differences between the better performing PIAs
(Such as ROT in Anantapur, CEO-WCUSS in Kurnool, DDS in Medak
and VIP in Mahaboobnagar) as far as economic impact is concerned.
These differences may be explained in terms of modus operandi
adopted by each PIA in implementing the watershed, apart from the
differences in the local endowments.
Where water harvesting is improved, the question of how
the potential benefits will be shared arises. From the field it is clear
that bore-wells are proliferating rapidly, particularly on middle and
wealthier farmer's land. This is partly due to the fact that tlie cost of
sinking borewells has declined significantly over recent years.
However many landowners are sinking borewells adjacent to the new
dams and tanks to take advantage of whatever increased water
harvesting has occurred.' In many cases groundwater levels are
declining. Since most of the DPAP harvesting structures have only
existed for the last few years the trend in water tables is as yet
uncertain. However there is no sign at present of any attempts to
harmonise the level of extraction with the level of recharge.
Ihe Future: A Longer Term View
This section considers trends in the policy process, and
current and future issues. Watershed development policy both in AP
and nation wide is subject to ongoing review, in the light of practical
experience, and in AP intensive policy review workshops are held on
a regular basis.
Issves Relating to Guidelines

There are a few studies assessing the progress of watershed

development policies in AP (ODI/DFID 1998, WASSAN, 2001;
MANAGE, 2000; ORG-MARG, 2001). These studies have identified
'technical' problems as the main lacuna in the programme, of which
the main points are:

-----Or.M.C.R.Ji.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
168 NEERU - MEERU

Implementation Accordingto Guidelines

The 1994 guidelines for watershed development are mostly
adhered to while implementing the watersheds. However many
difficulties on the ground stem from these guidelines being too strictly
adhered to by PIAs, even at the cost of poor results. For instance,
the selection of Watershed Association president is recommended
to be on consensus basis but this is often stretched too far, stifling
open negotiation. There are instances where an election for the post
would have facilitated the smooth implementation of the programme.
Size of Watershed Area
The guidelines specify that the size of the micro-watershed
should be approximately 500 ha, but since the watershed is a
I
geographical unit, depending on the intensity of degradation, there
needs to be more flexibility in defining the size of the micro-watershed
to beJreated. Treatment of the different micro-watersheds must also:
be coordinated across the macro-watershed. In the absence of such
coordinated planning,treating patches of micro-watershedsdifferently
within a macro-watershed is unlikely to be very successful in the long
term.
Duration of the programme
The duration of the project support in eachvillage was initially
four years, but this has recently been increased to five years. It is
apparent that a longer period of intervention, of at least seven years
may be needed for sustainable impact, to allow a longerinitial period
for social mobilisation and pre-planning.
Rate per Unit
The existing financial allocation rate for developing a
watershed ranges from Rs. 3000 to 5000 per ha. The rate was fixed
in 1994 and has not been adjusted since. These rates are currently
being revised.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 169

User Contribution and Revolving Fund

The prescribed concept of user contribution and user stake
in the programme does not appear to be followed in practice. Users'
participation is usually limited to supervising the works in the owner's
field. In some cases, contributions are accounted for by cutting the
wages of the labourers. In other words, labourers were paid lower
than standard wage rate and the difference between the standard
rate and that actually paid is used to pay the farmers contribution.
This practice seems to be very common and indicatesthat the indirect
beneficiaries are being exploited. On the contrary, they are not
interested in safeguarding the plantations carried out by the
programmeon their (uncultivable)lands.The attitude regardingrepairs
to the structures is similar.
The concept of the revolving fund has not been properly
implemented in many villages, as there is no mechanism through
which to continue this fund, through user contributions, once the
implementation phase is over. During the course of the programme
some money is expected to be pooled, to be used for repairs and
maintenance works. Although this is mainly supposed to come from
the user's contribution, at this stage there is no formal procedure to
collect the user contribution, and as a result, the revolving fund would
evaporate after a few repairs and the structures would degenerate.
In practice farmers expects the PIA to have the responsibility to carry
out these repairs.
PIA Operational Constraints

Each PIA is given 10 to 12 micro-watersheds to implement

the programme in. However most have little infrastructure or capacity
from which to implement the programme successfully. Hence, the
number of watersheds provided to each individual PIA should be
reconsidered in the light of each PIA's specific capacity, and reduced
where necessary.
Selection of PIA appears to be critical in the whole process

-----Dr.M.G.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
170 NEERU - MEERU

and better performing PIAs must be identified and supported. The

success of the watershed programme depends on the integrity,
commitment and honesty of the PIA. In fact, the impact of the
programme is conspicuous in the watersheds managed by some of
the longer-term better performing NGOs like ROT in Anantapur and
CEO-WCUSS in. Kurnool. There are instances where PIAs have
abandoned the works and absconded after receiving the initial
payment. On the other hand, some of the established PIAs, such as
'Deccan DevelopmentSociety (DDS) in Medak,and ROTin Anantapur,
express a lack of enthusiasm to continue, due to.the difficulties in
dealing with excessively bureaucratic procedures and the inflexibility
in the implementation process. It is essential that PIA's performance
is monitored, and that better-performing PIAs are recognised and
receive capacity-building support. However the administrative burden /
I.
upon them must be reduced, to allow them to concentrate on;
implementation. ..
Administrative and Financial Arrangements /
f
,
The watershed programme requires a continuous flo~ of
funds in the implementation phase, while DRDA releases the funds
in seven instalments. This has an adverse effect on the ,'mooth .
functioning of the programme, due to frequent cash flO~W'Oblems.
Thus the release of the instalments should be based on a ual costs
to be incurred by a specific physical activity in the pro ramme, In
addition to this the funds for administrative activities s ould tie no
more than 15 percent of the programme budget.

Local Leadership
,
The process of project implementation proceeds smoothly if
the elected (selected) leaders are both locally influential and;sincere.
In the case of weak leadership there are complaints and allegations,
especially regarding the secretary, who is the key individual. For
instance, in one watershed, where the secretary is weak, farmers

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute P'radesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 171

complained that they were not consulted over deciding the location
of the check' dams. On the other hand, the reactions in another
watershed, where the secretary has a following, were far more
supportive. These differences are not due to the power equations in
the village but mainly due to enlightened leadership.
Incidentally, in both the villages the secretaries belong to the
minority community (Muslim), but in the case of later the secretary
has a great deal of experience in developmental works, as he was
involved with the activities of the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra
(Agricultural Research Centre). By contrast the secretary in the former
case was a novice in this regard.
The monthly salary of the secretary is not at a sufficient level
to motivate them to work sincerely and honestly, as it is only Rs. 600
per month, less that half that of a daily labourer. This discourages the
secretary to devote his time to monitoring the work. As a result, user
groups are not formed in the majority of the watersheds.
Transparency (in terms of maintenance of records of day-to-
day activities and payments made for the works) is very important in
order to avoid any sort of confusion or allegation and counter-
allegation between the secretary and beneficiaries of the watershed
program, This issue is clearly reflected in a number of watersheds. In
orne cases, the maintenance of records is not done at all, and as a
ssult, people make allegations against the secretary and chairman.
Maintaining records depends on the education level of the secretary
but though getting a graduate to work as secretary (as prescribed in
the guidelines) is difficult, the PIAs need to keep in mind the
educational status of the secretary.
Wider Issues

Beyond discussion of the appropriateness of the guidelines

there are wider issues which have been highlighted, both through
studies in AP and nationally.

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ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
172 NEERU - MEERU

Technical end Social Aspects of Watershed Development

Watershed development is essentially a community based
developmental programme. Given the nature of the technology,
watershed development requires treating large areas cutting across
householdsand even villages.Anotherdistinctivefeature of watershed
technology is its relatively long gestation period. Farmers have to
wait for about five to seven years to receive benefits. Hence, its
adoption and success critically hinges upon sustained inter- as well
as .intra-village co-operation. Collective participation and action is a
critical ingredient for watershed management. This throws up a wide
range of issues, such as social organisation and property rights that
need careful.scrutiny in order to sustain the programme. The problem
of property rights arises when dealing with the treatment of common
lands.
.. Whilst watershed development is associated with physical
infrastructure and technology (the success of which is well
established), watershed management is an institutional approach,
which implies a particular participatory philosophy. The participatory
philosophy of watershed management is proving to be the main
constraint for the widespread success of the programme in mobilising
local people on a sustainable basis. Strengthened local institutional
arrangements may be needed to ensure the watershed treatment
measures are maintained after external support is withdrawn.
Equity for Beneficiaries
Equity and inequity in the. distribution of economic garns
among the participants is due to the existing institutional structure
(agrarian structure and credit markets). The direct benefits go to the
land-owning beneficiaries, whereas landless people only get indirect
benefits from. wage employment during the implementation cycle.
Many watersheds comprise common or community lands and the
benefits from these could .accrue to the landless people. Moreover,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 173

there could be a provision to help them financially, through a revolving

fund, to promote their entrepreneurship.
EquityJssuescan also be addressedthrough collectiveaction, .
There is as yet little provision for empowering the landless
communities and women in the watershed area, and this could
a
become component of policy inthe future;

GUIDELINES FOR WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT

(REVISED - 2001) 3

Introduction
1. The.Watershed·approach has conventionally aimed at treating
degraded
.
lands with the help of
.'
low cost and locally accessed
. ,
technologies such as in-situ soil .and moisture conservation
. measures, afforestation etc., and through a participatory
approach that seeks to secure close involvement of the user-
communities.
2. The broad objective was the promotion of the overall economic
development and improvementof the socio-economicconditions
of the resource poor sectionsof.people inhabitingthe programme
areas. Many projects deSigned within this approach were, at
different points of time, taken up by the Government of India.
The Drought Prone AreasProgramme (DPAP) and the Desert
Development Programme (DDP) were brought into the
watershed mode in 1987. The Integrated Wasteland
Development Programme (IWDP) launched in 1989 under the
aegis of the National Wasteland Development Board also aimed
at the development of wastelands on watershed basis.
3. All these three programmes were brought under the Guidelines
for Watershed Development with effect from 1.4.1995. Other
major programmes now being implemented through this
approach are the National Watershed Development Project in
Ralnfed Areas (NWDPRA) and the Watershed Development in

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ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
174 NEERU- MESRU

Shifting CultivationAreas (WDSCA) ofthe Ministry of Agriculture

(MoA).
4. The focus of these programmes has, with the advent of the
Department of Land Resources (DoLR) shifted to the
enhancementof the viabilityand qualityof rural livelihoodsupport
systems.
5. While the programmes of DoLR are designed to address areas
characterized by a relatively difficult terrain and preponderance
of community resources, those of Ministry of Agriculture are
expected to aim at increasing production and enhancing
productivity in cultivated areas largely privately owned.
6. While the focus of these programmes may have differed, the
common theme that underpinned their structure has been the
basic objective of land and water resource management for
sustainable development of natural resources and community
empowerment. The Prof. Hanumantha Rao, Committee,
constituted by the Ministryof RuralDevelopment(MoRD) studied
the implementation and impact of the Drought Prone Areas
Programme and the Desert Development Programme all over
the country and recommended a common set of operational
guidelines, objectives, strategies and expenditure norms for
watershed development projects integrating the features of thl
three programmesunderthe MoRD. Accordingly,the Guidel)nes
for Watershed Developmentwere framed and brought into ,force
with effect from 1st April 1995.
Need for revision

7. More than six years have elapsed since the first set of projects
was sanctioned under the Guidelines. Meanwhile, a number of
studies have been conducted, evaluations made and soundings
taken in various for a culminating in the emergence of many
suggestions in regard to making the guidelines contemporary,

------Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 175

transparent and easy to follow. The need has also been felt to
infuse a greater degree of flexibility into the Guidelines in view
of the large variation in local conditions, needs and the social
structure. Detailedconsultationswere, therefore, organizedwith
the State Governments, Project Implementation Agencies,
NGOs and other experts involved in the implementation of
Watershed Development Projects under different Programmes.
In fact, Prof. Hanumantha Rao himself has brought out some of
the emerging issues and their immediate redressal in his Lovraj
Kumar Memorial.Lecture 2000.
Encompassing all these innovations in one place and making
the intentions more specific, the Guidelines for Watershed
Development (2001) have now been reformulated inter-alia, to
ensure: -
i. Programme-specific and focused project approach,
ii. Greater flexibnity in implementation,
iii. (iii) Well -defined role for State, District and Village
level Institutions,
iv. Removal of overlaps,
v. A provision for keeping the Watershed Development
Projects on probation,
vi. An "Exit Protocol" for the PIAs,
vii. A "Twin track" approach to the implementation of
projects,
viii. Seeking a combination of GO/NGO as PIA,
ix. A greater role of women,
x. An effective role for the Panchayat Raj Institutions,
xi. Bringing to centre-stage SHGs comprising rural poor, .
especially those, belonging to SC/ST categories.
xii. (xii)Establishing a credit facility from financial institutions,
xiii. (xiii)Transparency in implementation,

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176 NEERU • MEERU

xiv. (xiv)Effective use of remote sensing data furnished by

NRSA.
Applica bility
8. These Guidelines are applicable to IWDP, DPAP and DDP and
any other programme notified by the Government of India. The
Watershed DevelopmentProjectsunder DPAP/DDPwill be taken
up in the Blocks notified under respective Programmes. Such
Projects,under IWDPwill generallybe implementedin the Blocks
other than those notified under DPAP/DDP as well as the Blocks
having similar projectsunder InternationalCooperationSchemes
such as Sustainability of Livelihood/Watershed Development
projects funded by international donor agencies.
Watershed Area
9. A watershed is a geo-hydrologicalunit,which drains intocommon
point. The watershed approach is a project based, ridge to valley
approach for in-situ soil and water conservation, afforestation
etc. Unit of development will be a watershed area of about 500
ha. each in watersheddevelopmentprojects. However,the actual
area of a project may vary keeping in view the geographical
location, the size of village etc. The thematic maps generated
from satellite data for different themes such as land use/land
cover, hydro geomorphology,soils etc. may be used for selection
of a watershed area. The project will primarily aim at treatment
of non-forest wastelands and identifieddrought prone and desert
areas. However, if any watershed area consists of some
forestlands, it should also be treated simultaneously under the
project as provided in para 16 of these Guidelines.
Scope

10. These Guidelines should be taken as general principles for

implementation of watershed development projects and should
not be used as a tool to make their implementation a complex

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 177
WatershedDevelopmentProgramme.

exercise. The basic philosophy of these general principles is to

seek gainful and transparent utilization of public funds for·
watershed development, with a view to promoting the overall
economic development and improving the socio-economic
condition of the resource poor and the disadvantaged sections
of the people inhabiting the project areas. The State Watershed
Development Committees (para 19) are empowered to clarify
the provisions of thes~ Guidelines to suit local social,
infrastructure and geographical problems subject.to the basic
.philosophy mentioned earlier on.

Objectives
11. The objectives of Watershed Development Projects will be:-
i. Developingwastelands/degradedlands,·drought-proneand
desert areas on watershed basis, keeping in view the
capability of land, site-conditions and local needs.
ii. Promoting the overall economic development and
improving the socio-economic condition of the resource
poor and disadvantagedsectionsinhabitingthe programme
areas.
iii. Mitigatingthe adverse effects of extreme climatic conditions
such as drought and desertification on crops, human and
livestock population for their overall improvement.
iv. Restoring ecological balance by harnessing, conserving
. and developing natural resources i.e. land, water,
vegetative cover.
v. Encouraging village community for:
a) Sustained community action for the operation and
maintenanceof assets created and further development
of the potentialof the naturalresourcesin the watershed.
b) Simple,easy and affordabletechnologicalsolutions and
institutional arrangements that make use of, and build

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 178
NEERU - MEERU

upon, local technical knowledgeand availablematerials.

Implementation of Programme

12. These programmes will be implemented, mainly, through the

Zilla Parishads (ZPs)/District Rural Development Agencies
(DRDA). However, wherever it is expedient in the interest of
Watershed Development Programmes, the projects can be
implemented through any Department of the State Government
or autonomous agencies of Central Government or State
Governments with the approval of the Department of Land
Resources, Government of India.
Sanction of Projects

13. The projects will be sanctioned by Government of India as per

procedure in vogue at the time of adoption of these revised
guidelines. The Department of Land Resources, Government
of India, may amend or relax this procedure from time to time.
In case of interpretation of any of the provision of these
guidelines, the Department of Land Resources will be the final
authority. However, the Department of Land Resources may
sanction projects for treatment of wastelands in Special Problem
Areas such as high altitude regions, land slide areas, slopes
having more than 30 degree gradient or for any other specified
technical reason. These projects need not necessarily be
implemented through participatory mode and may be
implemented on intensive treatment specific departmental
approach.

Preparation of A PerspectivePlan
14. The Department of Land Resources has brought out the
WastelandsAtlas of Indiain May 2000 in collaborationwith NRSA
Hyderabad. The State Governments are expected to prepare a
long-termperspective plan for treatmentof wastelands/degraded
lands, drought prone and desert areas over a period of 15years.

-----Or.M.C:R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 179

This plan should keep in view the availability of funds under

IWDP, DPAP, DDP and other such programmes being
implemented through International Cooperation projects and
other agencies. In most of the States, State Remote Sensing
Application Centres have developed watershed-wise Atlas
showing code Nos. These code numbers should be specified
in the perspective plan indicating already treated watershed
areas, ongoing project areas and new project areas to be taken
up in a phased manner.
Criteria for Selection of Watersheds

15. The following criteria may broadly be used in selection of the

watersheds:
a) Watershed area may be about 500 ha. However, if on actual
survey, a watershed is found to have slightly less or more
area, the total area may be taken.up for development as a
project. Even small contiguous watersheds with an
approximate total area of 500 hectares may be taken up for
development.
b) In case a watershed falls in two villages, it should be divided
into two sub watershed areas confined to the designated
villages. Care should be taken to treat both the sub-
watershed areas simultaneously.
c) .Watershed, which has acute chortaqe of drinkingwater.
d) Watershed,which has a large populationof scheduledcastes/
scheduled tribes dependent on it.
e} Watershed that has a preponderance of non-forest
wastelands/ degraded lands.
f) Watershed, which has a preponderance of common lands.
However, in view of the fact that watershed development
aims at poverty alleviation by improving productivity of land
I.

and generation of employment, projects not having

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

180 NEERU- MEERU

preponderance of common lands may also be considered

for sanction provided there is adequate justification.
g) Watersheds where actual wages are significantly lower than
the minimum wages.
h) Watershed, which is contiguous to another watershed that
has already been developed/ treated.
i) Watersheds where People's participation is assured through
raw materials, cash, contribution on labour etc. for its
development as well as for the operation and maintenance
of the assets created.
Development of ForestLands in Watershed Areas

16. Some watersheds may encompass, in addition to arable land

under private ownership,forestland under the ownership of State
Forest Department. Since nature does not recognize artificial
boundaries of forest and non-forest lands in any watershed, the
entire watershed is to be treated, in an integrated manner.
Though the criterionfor selectionof watershedsprimarilyremains
predominance of non-forest lands, the forestlands forming part
of such watersheds may also be treated simultaneously as
detailed below:
(a) The DivisionalForestOfficerconcernedshould give technical
sanction of the treatment plans.
(b) The programme should as far as possible be implemented
by Village Forest Committees existing in that area. If no
such Committee exists, their formation may be encouraged,
or else the project activities in such watersheds should be
taken up by the Forest Department.
(c) Village Forest Committees should be treated at par with
Watershed Committee. Since Village Forest Committees
are registered with the Forest Department of the respective
States, there would not be any need for getting them

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed
Development
Programme 181

registered under the Societies Registration Act.

(d) The Micro-watershed Development Plan for the forest areas
should be in conformity with the Forest Conservation Act
and the approved working plan of the area.
(e) Where a relatively larger proportion of the watershed is
covered by forestlands, Forest Department at the district
level should be encouraged to take up the work of
development as Project Implementation Agency.
(f) A forest official should invariably be included as a member
of the Watershed Development Team wherever forestland
falls within the watershed.
Project Commencement

17. The date of sanction of the project shall be date of project

commencement for all purposes. The project shall be
implementedover a periodoffive years from the date ofsanction.
State Wat.ershed Development Committee

18. To ensure coordination among various Government

Departments/Institutions and Voluntary Agencies, a State
Watershed Development Committee (SWDC) shall be
constituted under the Chairmanshipof AdditionalChief Secretary
IAgricultural Production Commissioner/ Development
Commissioner. Secretaries & Heads of Departments of Rural
Development, Panchayati Raj, Forests, Soil Conservation,
Horticulture, Agriculture, State Remote Sensing Centre, Harijan
and Tribal Welfare, two representatives of prominent NGOs
working in the field of watershed development, two prominent
Women representatives, one representative of StC!teTraining
Institutions in related field will be the members of the Committee.
A designated Department in the State Government shall be the
nodal Department to service this Committee and to supervise
the implementation of Watershed Development Programmes.

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182 NEERU - MEERU

19. This Committee may meet twice a year to monitor, review and
evaluate the proqress of implementation of the Watershed
Development Programmes. If there is adequate justification, the
Committee may recommend relaxation of the cost norms for a
specific project especially in difficult areas.
20.. The ZP/District Rural Development Agency shall benormally
the authority competent to decide on the suitability or otherwise
of the Project Implementation Agency for taking up Watershed
Development Projects. However, the State Government will be
competent to change the Project Implementation Agency. In
case of change of PIA in the projects under IWDP, prior
concurrence of Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India
will be necessary.
DistriCt Watershed Development Committee

21. To ensure coordination at district level, a District Watershed

Committee (DWDC) shall be constituted under the Chairman,
Zilla Parishad or DRDA as the case may be. It shall consist of
CEO/PD, ZP/DRDA and district level officers of the line
departments associated with the implementation of watershed
Development projects, one representative of the State Remote
Sensing Centre, one member from the relevant Research and
Training institutions in the district, one NGO representative, at
least two prominent women workers and one prominent social
worker. The District Watershed Development Committee will
advise and assist the ZP/DRDA on matters, regarding selection
of PIAs, members of Watershed Development teams, training,
community organization, publicity campaigns and such other
items/activities. The Committee will also approve the detailed.
action plan for watershed development projects in the district. It
should meet at least once in a quarter and review the progress
of the watershed Development projects, assist in resolving
management and administrative problems, guide in

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Watershed Development Programme 183

implementation, identify policy issues, if any, for reference to

the State Government /Government of India.

Role of Parichayati Raj Institutions

22. ZPs/DRDAs or any other Institution in whose favour the
watershed development projects have been sanctioned shall
be fully responsible for their implementation. The CEO, ZP/PD,
DRDA will be the Member Secretary of the DWDC. The ZP/
DRDA at the district level shall have the right and responsibility
to monitor and review the implementation of the programme.
The CEO / PO of DRDA /ZP shall maintain the accounts of
watershed development projects and shall sign all the statutory
papers, such as, UCs, Audited Statements of Accounts, Progress
Reports, Bonds etc: '
23. The Zilla Parishads and other Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRls)
shall have very important role to play in Watershed Development
Programmes. Wherever the DRDA has been made responsible
for implementation of the watershed programmes, the Chief
Executive Officer of the Zilla Parishad shall be a member of the
DWDC. The PRls shall have the right to monitor and review the
implementation of the programme and provide guidance for
improvements in the administrative arrangements and
procedures with a view to ensure convergence of other
programmes of Ministry of Rural Development such as JGSY,
SGSY, lAY, CRSP, Rural Drinking Water Supply etc.
24. At the Village level, the Gram Panchayat shall be fully involved
in the implementation of the programme, specially community
organization and training programmes. It may use its
administrative authority and financial resources to support and
encourage the formation of SHGs/UGs, the operation and
maintenance of the assets created during project period and
the common property resources such as pasture lands, fisheries
tanks, plantations on village common lands, etc. The Gram

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1"'84 NEERU - MEERU

Panchayats may also ensure that funds from other

developmental programmes of MoRD are used to supplement
and complement the Watershed Development Programmes.
The Gram Panchayat shall be empoweredto review and discuss
the progress of watershed development programme in its
meetings. The watershed action plan should have the approval
of Gram Sabha and it should be a part of annual action plan of
Gram Sabha. The Secretary, Watershed Committee shall
provide all information in respect of action plan,funds earmarked
for various activities, details of expenditure progress of works
and future plan of action to the Gram PanchayatlGram Sabha.
25. The ZP/ DRDA in whose favour the project has been sanctioned
will be entitled to affect recovery of funds from any institutions/
organizations/ individuals and take appropriate action under law
if the project is r.ot properly implementedor funds are misutilised
or not spent as per Guidelines.

Project Implementation Agencies

26. The Zilla Parishads, Panchayat Samitis and the Gram
Panchayats are also entitled to take on the responsibility of
implementing a cluster of watershed projects in the capacity of
Project Implementation Agencies, if they so desire. However,
in all such cases, they shall also follow the norms prescribed for
PIAs under these Guidelines.
27. While the ZP/DRDA shall administer the Watershed
Development Programmes under the supervision and guidance
of the State Governments and Government of India,the projects
at the field level shall be implemented by the Watershed
Committees under the overall supervision and guidance of
Project ImplementationAgencies (PIAs). The PIA shall normally
be assigned 10-12Watershed projects covering an area ranging
from 5000-6000 hectares. However, if a PRI/Government
Departmenthas adequate infrastructure,it can be assigned more

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 185

projects on the specific recommendations of th,e State

Government concerned. It shall engage a four member
Watershed Development Team (WDT). The PIA should
preferably be selected from amongst PRls failing which it may
be a Government Department or a reputed Non Government
Organization/Body Corporate registered under any of the
legislation such as the Societies Act, the Cooperative Societies.
Act, Companies Act or any other special statute. Wherever
feasible, ZPs/DRDAs may implement a project through a
combination of Government and Non-Government Project
Implementation Agencies where community mobilization may
be done by the Non-Govt. PIA & bio-physical activities by
Government PIA.
28. An NGO is eligible for selection as PIA only if it has been active
in the field of watershed development or any similar area in
developmental activities in rural areas for some years. There
is no bar for a PIA to take up two or more cluster of projects
provided it has the requisite capacity and capability. However,
one NGO may not normally be given more than a total of 12,000
ha. area in all the programmes of similar nature to develop in a
district and 25,000 ha. in the State. This will encourage more
NGOs in the field of watershed development. Due consideration.
and preference should be given to those institutions,which have
done their basic homework in identifying villages/watersheds/
areas where they would prefer to work. Past experience in/or
near by selected villages and quantum of funds handled by the
PIA in last 3 years may be taken into account for their selection
by the ZP/DRDA. The non-Governmental Organizations black
listed by CAPART or other Departments of State Government
and Government of India should not be appointed as PIAs.
29. The Project Implementation Agencies (PIAs) will motivate the
Gram Panchayatsto pass necessary resolutions to make public
contributions, conduct Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA)

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186 NEERU - MEERU

exercises, prepare the development plans for the watershed,

undertake community organization and training for the village
communities, provide technical guidance and supervision of
watershed development activities, inspect and authenticate
project accounts, undertake action research to adapt low-cost
technologies and/or validate and build upon indigenoustechnical
knowledge, monitor and review the overall project
implementation and set up institutional arrangements for post-
project operation and maintenance and further development of
the assets created during the project period.
Watershed Development Team

30. Each PIA shall carry out its duties through a multi-disciplinary
team deSignatedas the Watershed DevelopmentTeam (WDT).
Each WDT may handle 10-12 watershed development projects
and may have at least four members one each from the
disciplines of Forestry / Plant science, animal sciences, civil/
agricultural engineering and social sciences. At least one
member of the WDT should be a woman. Preferablequalification
for a WDT member would be a professional degree. However,
qualification can be relaxed by the ZP/DRDA in deserving cases
keeping in view the practical field experience in respective
discipline. One of them shall be deSignated as the Project
Leader. The PIA will be at liberty to either earmark its own staff
exclusively for this work, or engage fresh candidates including
retired personnel, or take people on deputationfrom government
or other organizations. The establishment charges for the WDT
shall be subject to the limits prescribed iii Annexure-I and debited
to the Watershed Development Projects. The WDT shall be
located at the PiAl Block headquarters/any other small town
nearest to the cluster of selected villages. The appointment of
the WDT must be completed within a period of two months from
the date of nomination of PIA, failing which the ZP/DRDA shall

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Watershed Development Programme 187

have the right to cancel the nomination of the PIA and attach
the villages to some other PIA.
Self-Help Groups
31. The PIA shall constitute Self-Relp Groups (SHGs) in the
watershed area with the help of WDT. These Groups shall be
homogenousgroups havingcommon identitywho are dependent
on the watershed area such as agricultural labourers, land less
.persons, women, shepherds, scheduledcastes/scheduledtribes
persons. Around 50% of villagers Le. Who are directly or
indirectly dependent on the watershed, should generally be
enrolled as members of at least one Self-Help Group. Separate
Self-help Groups should be organised for Women, scheduled
castes, scheduled tribes etc.
User Groups
32. The PIA shall also constitute User Groups (UGs) in the
watershed area with the help of WDT. These Groups shall be
homogenous groups, who may be most affected by each work!
activity and shall include the persons having land holding within
the watershed areas. Each UG shall consist of the persons who
are likely to derive direct benefits from a particular watershed
work or activity. The UGs should actually take over the operation
and maintenanceof the completed communityworks or activities
on common property resources.
Watershed Associations
33. Where a watershed is coterminous with a Village Panchayat or
its area is confined within the boundaries of a Village Panchayat,
the Gram Sabha of the Panchayatconcerned will be designated
as the Watershed Association (WA). However, where a
watershed comprises of areas coming under the jurisdiction of
more-than one Panchayat, members of the community who are
directly or indirectly dependent upon the watershed area, will
be organized into a Watershed Association. Such a Watershed

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188 NEERU - MEERU

Association should be registered as a Society under the

Registration of Societies Act, 1860.The Watershed Association
will meet, at least, twice a year to evolve/improve the watershed
development plan, monitor and review its progress, approve
the statement of accounts, formation of user groups/self-help
groups, resolve differences of disputes between different user
groups, self-help groups or amongst members of the user
groups/self-help groups, approve the arrangements for the
collection of public/voluntary-donatlons and contributions from
the community and individual members, lay down procedures
for the operation and maintenance of assets created, approve
the activities that can be taken up with money available in the
"-
Watershed Development Fund, nominate members of the
Watershed Committee from amongst the user groups/ self-help
groups by a system of rotation, and take disciplinary action of
removal of membership from the Watershed Committee or user
groups and whatever other disciplinary action it deems fit. The
WAwili elect its own President, who shall also be the Chairman
of the Watershed Committee. The Watershed Secretary shall
assist the PresidentofWA in the discharge of the responsibilities '
entrusted to the WA.

Watershed Committee
34. Subject to the overall supervision and control of the Watershed
Association, a Watershed Committee (WC) shall carry out the
day-to-day activities of the Watershed Development Project.
The Watershed Committee may consist of 10-12 members who
will be nominated by the Watershed Association from amongst
the user groups (4-5), self-help groups (3-4), Gram Panchayat
(2-3) and a memberof theWatershed DevelopmentTeam. While
making nominations, it may be ensured that the Committee has
at least one-third representation of women. There should be
adequate representation of members from the Scheduled

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Watershed Development Programme 189

Castes/ScheduledTribes etc. Needlessto stress, the Watershed

Committee \ViIIbe responsible for coordination and liaison with
the Gram Panchayat, the Watershed Development Team, the'
DRDAlZP and Government Agencies concerned to ensure
smooth implementation of the Watershed Development Project.
The W.C. shall meet at least once in a month on pre decided
date.
Watershed Secretary & Volunteers
35. Each watershed development project shall have a Watershed
Secretary (WS) engaged by the Watershed Association. He
should preferably be a matriculate from the same village or at
least from a nearby village and agree to live in the watershed
village during the project period. In case of non-availability of
such a person, a moderately educated person of the village
with good writing and reading skills sufficient for maintaining
records and accounts of the project may be engaged to function
as WS. He will work under the direct supervision of the
Chairman of the WC· and will be responsible for convening
meetings of the WA!WC and for carrying out all their decisions.
He will maintain all the records of project activities and
proceedings of the meetings of WC and the WA. He will also
maintain accounts. If the PIA feels it is necessary that volunteers
should assist the Secretary, the WC may be permitted to provide
not more than two volunteersto assist the Watershed Secretary.
Watershed Secretary as well watershed volunteers shall be
engaged on honorarium basis subject to the ceiling prescribed
in Annexure- I. They shall not be treated as employee of
watershed Committee/ PiAl DRDAI ZP/ State GovernmenU
Government of India.

Community Organization & Entry Point Activities

36. PartiCipatoryRural Appraisal (PRA) is one of the most important
exercises in watershed development projects before finalization

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190 NEER\J - MEERU

of action Plan. In fact the watersheds should be selected after

due PRA and the watersheds with greater participatoryresponse
should be preferred. After sanction of project, the WOT should
tour the watershed area extensively and organize various self-
help groups, UGs and other groups. As a part of confidence
building exercise, some community benefiting entry point
activities can be taken up by the PIA directly. The treatment
plan and interventions should be decided after elaborate PRA
exercise. These activities can be renovation of village level
school, Panchayat buildings, community houses, Common
places, drinking water sources/ wells, bathing ghats, approach
roads to water tanks, village roads, village sanitation
improvement works etc. Water harvesting measures and
improvement of drinking water sources should be preferred over
other activities. The entry point activities can be undertaken
out of the grant available for community organization. Religious
activities and activities for individual benefits are not permitted.

Capacity Building & Training

37. Capacity Building is an important aspect for the successful
implementation of watershed development programmes. ZP/
OROA shall ensure that relevant training programmes are
organized for all the functionaries involved in watershed
development. PIA may ensure that a majority of the members
of SHGs/UGs are given basic training involving skill up gradation
and orientation on the technical and organizational aspects of
the running of these Groups. Besides, training on application
of Remote Senslnq Technology for generating database for
watershed development should be included in the training
Programme. Generally, the training should be organised by the
WOT members with the help of local officials of technical
departments/institutions, VAs etc. Guest faculties invited may
be paid an honorarium as per norms prescribed by the State

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Watershed Development Programme 191

Government. The SHG/UG members could also be taken for

visits to Research Stations/successful watersheds/Kisan Vikas
Kendras etc. where they could see the demonstration of
successful technologies/practices/designs that are relevant to
them. Use of audio Visual media to increase awareness and
motivation among SHG/UG members should be encouraged.
38. Training and community mobilization are a pre-requisite before
initiating developmental work in the watershed projects. Prior
sensitization and orientation training should be imparted to all
senior functionaries including PDs/CEOs at the district/block
levels on Watershed Project Management before they resume
their responsibilities. The Training Programmes organized by
SIRDs and other similar training programmes should also
address the use of remote sensing data and GIS techniques in
their curriculum. In the districts, capacity building centres may
be established or existing centres should be upgraded with the
resources like Resource Persons, facility for training
development, dissemination of information support service for
technology aspects, expertise in social mobilisation, community
empowerment and self-management, facilities for convergence
and equity issues and provision for cross visits to best practice
locations. To overcome the constraint of inadequate capacity
particularly at PIA and WC level, a National Committee for
Watershed Training has been constituted under the
Chairmanshipof DG, NIRD.The States/districtsmay get in touch
with DG NIRD, Hyderabad for further guidance in this regard.
Activitiesfor Wat~rshed Development

39. WDT shall call a meeting of the Watershed Association for

preparation of watershed treatment/development plan, on the
basis of the information generated from the benchmark survey
of the watershed areas & detailed PRA exercise. After general
discussion, the WC will prepare an integrated Watershed

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192
NEERU - MEE:RU

Development Plan under the guidance of the WDT and submit

the same to PIA. The WDT should utilizevarious thematic maps
relating to land and water resources development to prepare
the watershed development plans. This watershed
Development Plan shall necessarily mention the clear
demarcation of the watershed with specific details of survey
numbers, ownership details and a map depicting the location of
proposed work/activities. The PIA will then formulate a
Watershed Development Plan for the area assigned in
associationwith WCs/WAs and submit the same to the ZP/DRDA
for approval. This plan shall also be the basis for release of
funds, monitoring, review, evaluation etc by the ZP/DRDA, State
Government and the Central Govt. Watershed Treatment /
Development Plan should be prepared for all the arable and
non-arable land including degraded forest lands, government
and community lands and privatelands. Emphasis should be
on low-cost locally available technology, simple and easy to
operate and maintain works and activities. The items, inter alia
that can be included in the Watershed Development Plan are:
a) Land Development including in-situ soil and moisture
conservation measures like contour and graded bunds
fortified by plantation, bench terracing in hilly terrain, nursery
raising for fodder, timber, fuel wood, horticulture & Non
Timber Forest Product Species.
b) Afforestation including block plantations, agro-forestry and
horticulturaldevelopment.Shelterbeltplantations,sand dune
stabilization, etc.
c) Drainage line treatment with a combination of vegetative
and engineering structures.
d) Development of small water harvesting structures such as
low-cost farm ponds, nalla bunds, check-dams and
percolation tanks & ground water recharge measures.

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Watershed Development Programme 193

e) Renovationand augmentationof water resources,desiltation

of tanks for drinking water/irrigation.
f) Pasture development either by itself or in conjunction with
plantations.
g) Repair, restoration and up-gradation of existing common
properly assets and structures in the watershed to obtain
optimum & sustained benefits from previous public
investments.
h) Crop demonstrations for popularizing new crops/varieties
or innovative mana_gementpractices.
i) Promotion and propagation of non-conventional energy
saving devices and energy conservation measures.
Project Approach For Watershed Development

40. Initial sanction of Watershed Development Project is only

indicative of location of watershed Development projects,
physical target and financial outlay. The detailed action plan in
the form of an integrated project has to be prepared by the WDT
in consultation with the Watershed Community. Community
Organization is an important component; at the same time
technical requirement and feasibility of appropriate biophysical
measures are to be carefully worked out for long-term
sustainable interventions for the entire area of the watershed.
The action plan should specify among others, the following:
i. . Pre-set deliverable output.
ii. Elaborate road map with .definite milestones
iii. Definite time frame for each activity
iv. Technological interventions
v. Specific success criteria and
vi. A Clear Exit Protocol
After the detailed action plan is approved by the ZP/DRDA, it

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194 NEERU - MEERU

would be the responsibility of the PIA to get the same implemented

through the Watershed Committees with the active involvement of
WDT members.
Convergenceof Programmes

41. As the Watershed Development Programme aims at holistic

development of people and natural resources, the convergence
of all other non-land based programmesof Government of India,
particularly those of the Ministry of Rural Development would
enhance the ultimate output and lead to sustainable economic
development of village community. The DRDA/ZP,
therefore, shall take all possible measures to ensure
convergence of other programmes of Ministry of Rural
Development such as the Jawahar Gram Samridhi Yojana
(JGSY), the Swarnjayanti Gram SwarozgarYojana (SGSY), the I
Indira Awas Yojana (lAY), the Central Rural Sanitation, '
Programme (CRSP) and the Rural Drinking Water Supply in
the villages chosen for the implementation of the Watershed
Development Projects. It should also be worthwhile to converge
programmes (of similar nature) of the other Ministriese.g. Health
& Family Welfare, Education, Social Justice and Empowerment
and Agriculture in these villages.
Twin track Approach

42. In watershed development, the general practice is to project

long term benefits of the programme in the development plans.
Shorbterm benefits that immediately enthuse the local people
to actively participate in the programmeand make it a movement
are not generally highlighted. It is, therefore, suggested that
besides the long term benefits of the programme, the watershed
development plan should identify short term benefits with
verifiable parameters that are likely to accrue in the watershed
project. While approvingthe detailedaction plan, the ZPI DRDA
may ensure that twin track approach has been followed in the

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 Watershed Development Programme 195

preparation of the development plan.

Transparency
43. Transparency under the programme would be promoted by
various agencies as follows:
• Preparation of Watershed Plan/Action Plan by the WC in
consultation with Self-Help Groups/User Groups with the
.assistanceof WDT members.
• Approvalof WatershedPlan/ActionPlanat the open meetings
of Watershed Assoclatlon.
• Displayof approved Watershed Plan/ActionPlan on a Notice
Boardat the WatershedAssociationoffice, PanchayatOffice,
Village Community Hall.
• Review of physical and financial progress of work during
implementation phase through periodical meetings of WA.
• Payment of concerned labourers directly and through
cheques, wherever possible.
Cost Norm

44. General cost norm for Watershed Development Projects will be

as perAnnexure-I.Cost estimatesfor eachwork itemand project
activity shall be worked out as per Standard Schedule of Rates
(SSR) approved by the States Governments in representative
areas.
Funding PaHern

45. Depending upon the ecosystem and major problems faced by

'''''''_ different districts/blocks, each Watershed Development Project
shall be eligible for funds as per the funding pattern prescribed
in Annexure - II for the whole project period. Department of
Land Resources, Government of India may extend the project
period in deserving cases without enhancement of cost and
reduction of work components. This amount shall be divided

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196 NEERU-MEERU

amongst the following project components subject to the

percentage ceiling mentioned against each: -

I. Watershed TreatmenVDevelopment
Works/Activities 80%

II. Watershed Community Organization

including entry point activities 5%

III. - Training -5%

IV. Administrative Overheads 10%

V. TOTAL 100%

46. Under the Watershed Development Programme, sizeable

amount of funds is made available for capacity buildil'lg and
training. However, it is observed that in several cases, these
funds are not beingutilizedfully. While it should be our endeavour
to attach due importance to this crucial activity, it should also be
ensured that funds allocated for capacity building and training
are spent meaningfully and to the fullest extent.
Credit facility from financial institutions
47. The general cost norms for watershed development projects
shall remain as per Annexure-I. However, the PIAlDRDAlZP
shall explore and encourage availing the credit facility by WA,
SHGs, UGs, Panchayatsand individualsprovidedby Lead Banks
or other Financial Institutionsfor further developmentalactivities
in watershed areas.
Revolving fund for Self-Help Groups
48 e, The PIAs will set up a revolving fund of not exceeding rupees
one lakh per watershed to be givenas seed moneyfor vocational
development by the Self-Help Groups (SHG) at the rate not
exceeding Rs.10, 000/- per SHG for undertaking income
generating activities. This seed money must be recovered from

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. Watershed Development Programme 197

the SHG members in a maximum of 6 installments on monthly

basis. This could be reinvested in the same or other SHGs.

Funds Flow
49. Funds for the projects from Departmentof Land Resources shall
be as per procedure in vogue at th~ time'-ofimpleriuimtation of
these Guidelines. However, various installments for ongoing
projects shall be as per Annexure-II. Releaseof next installment
will be made when the unutilized balance is not more than 50%
of the previous installmentreleasedand on receiptof satisfactory
progress report and audited statement of accounts of previous
year after taking into consideration the interest accrued on the
previous releases.
50. Funds from Government of India shall be released to ZP/
ORDAs. They may retain their share of the administrative cost
from each project and release the funds to PIA for administrative
. cost, community organization, training and works components.
PIA should release the work component to Watershed
CommitteeAccount and SecretaryWatershed Committeeshould
withdraw the funds and make the payment for the.works etc.
The Secretary should give detail of expenditure to the Gram
Panchayat/Gram Sabha. DRDA should endeavor to release
the funds directly to Watershed Committees on
recommendations/consultations of PIAs.

Watershed Project Account

51. The WC will take necessary action to open a bank account in its
name in the local branch of any Nationalized Bank/Cooperative
Bank. This account shall be operated upon jointly by the
Chairman of WC, one member of the WDT & Watershed
Secretary. Application to the ZP/DRDA for release of funds to
the Watershed Project account shall be jOintly signed by the
Chairman of WC and the Watershed Secretary and shall be

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198 NEERU-MEERU

duly recommended by the Project Leader of the WDT. The

watershed Secretary shall maintain the necessary records of '
income, and expenditure from this account in the manner
prescribed by the ZP/DRDA.
Watershed ~evelopment Fund
52. One of the mandatory conditions for selection of villages in
watershed development programme is contribution towards
watershed development fund as per the activities being
undertaken in individual lands as well as community lands. The
contributions to WDF shall be at least @ 10% for the works
done on individual lands and 5% for the works on Community
lands. The Watershed Development Fund shall not be a one
time measure but organic in nature. Contribution to this fund
will keep on accruing even after the project period is over, by
way of the charges paid by the community for use of assets
generated in the project e.g. water for Irrigation,fuel wood, fodder
etc. Contribution to this fund can be in cash or in the form of
labour. Care should be taken that the contribution comes from
the farmers and not from the labourers engaged to treat the
private lands. It is the beneficiaries who should contribute. All
such contributionsshall be deposlted in Watershed Development
Fund, which shall be maintained separately, to be operated after
the project Is completed. In case, no separate institutional
arrangement is done by the DRDA for post project management,
Chairman, WC and Secretary will operate this account jOintly.
The individuals as well as charltebte institutions should be
encouraged to contribute generously in the Watershed
Development Fund. The proceeds of this fund shall be utilised
In ,maintenance of assets created on Community land/ for
ccrnmon use after completion of project period. Works taken
up for Individual benefits shall not be eligible for repair/
maintenance out of this fund.

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Watershed
Development
Programme 199

Moni~oring and review

53. The PIA shall submit progress reports on each of the Watershed
Development Projects once in every quarter to the ZP/ DRDA.
Similarly, each Watershed Committee shall submit a quarterly
report to the PIA after it is scrutinizedand approved by the WDT.
The State Governments shall be responsible for regular
monitoring and evaluation of watershed development.
programmes through independent evaluators The Ministry of
Rural Development may also appoint.independent institutionsl
individuals to carry out concurrent as well as post-project
evaluations/impact studies of the Watershed Developrnent:
Projects.
54. The services of identified district-level and State-level Institutes
may also be utilized for establishing a partnership relationship
with District Authorities/ State Governments. These identified
Institutes will assist in generating information/feedback based.
on 'observations' taken of the projects at prescribed points of
time. They will also provide timely and precise inputs regarding
the pace and the quality of the implementation of the project, on
permanent and dedicated basis. The Institutions are expected
to provide the services of personnel trained for perlorming the
expected tasks such as identification of the lead activity in each
of the watershed projects, visit the project areas .at pre-
determined events in the life cycle of the project to obtain
readings inthe form of pre-set deliverable qL;2ntifiedoutputs
and assist in ensuring the.implementation of the exit Protocol in
the 'Watershed plus~phase to ensure adequate attention being
paid to considerations of sustainability and equity.
Proiects on probation
I
55. Under the Watershed Development Programme a watershed
.project is taken up for a period of five years, which includes an '
, initial phase of 9-12 months for establishing the necessary
'\

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200 NEERU-MEERU

institutional mechanism for execution of the project. While this

process by and large, has been working satisfactorily, there
seems to be instances where the PIA is not in a position to
ground the required village level institutions due to confl~cting
interest groups in the project area. It is, therefore, desirable to
put a project on probation for a period of one year. During one
year, if it is considered that the project cannot be implemented
successfully for certain unavoidablecircumstancesand reasons,
the ZP/DRDA shall recommend for its foreclosure to the State
Government which will consider such request on merits and
send its recommendations to Department of Land Resources.
Before conSidering any such request, the State Government
shall ensure that the amount already spent in the project area
has been duly accountedfor. The projectswill be formally closed
only after approval by the Department of Land Resources. In
such cases, the unspent amount should be refunded to the
Department of Land Resources. This review may take into
account the sustainability ofthe project, equity and other related
issues. However, such requests shall not cover the cases of
financial embezzlement, defalcation and other deliberate
irregularities, for which responsibility is to be fixed.
Exit protocol
56. The ZP/DRDA in consultation with the State Government will
evolve proper exit protocol for the watershed development
projects. It will endeavour to motivate Panchayats to take over
the assets created in the completed watershed development
projects for the purpose ofoperation and maintenance. The
watershed projects should generally be managed by the
respective Watershed Associations/Watershed Committees
under the overall supervisions of the Gram Panchayat after the
project period is over and after the externai supporting agencies
have withdrawn. Mechanism of such Exit Protocol should -
explicitly form part of the watershed development Plan. The

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ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 201

DRDAlZP should ensure to include the details of the exit protocol

in the watershed development plan. A locally acceptable, proper
mechanism for utilization of watershed development funds for
post project maintenance & its regular augmentation should be
specified. Equity and sustainability of the benefits of the assets
created under the watershed development plan should be clearly
spelt out by the PIA before it exits from the area.
Financial powers
57. While most of the works may be actually executed through the
user groups, incurring of expenditure shall be authorized to the
extent of Rs. 5000 by the Watershed Secretary, up to Rs.20,
000 by the Watershed· Committee and above Rs.20, 000 by the
Watershed Committee after specific approval of the concerned
technical member of the Watershed Development Team.
However, withdrawal of funds from the project AlC shall be only
through joint signatures as prescr.ibed earlier & the funds will be
entrusted with the Watershed Secretary.
Liaison with research/ technical institutions
58. Most of the problems identified may have simple, straightforward
technical solution within the competence of the WDT members.
However, in a few cases, there may be need to understand,
validate or improve the local technical knowledge and
innovations through more scientific investigation or the problem
may be so complex that the local knowledge of farmers/villagers
and the WDT members is not adequate to find suitable
technological solutions. To meet such exigencies, the State
Government should identify some centres of excellence such
as State Agriculture Universities (SAUs) / State Institute of Rural
Development (SIRDs) / KVKs Training Institutions of Forest!
Agriculture/NGOs etc. The WDT members should get in touch
with the concerned institutions for problem redressal, guidance
and training needs etc.

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Queries
59. Queries may be addressed to the following:-
a) At the district level:- Chief ExecutiveZila Parishad/Project
Director, District Rural Development Agency
b) At the State Level:- Secretary/Commissioner/Director
Rural De~elopment.
c) At the National Level:- Department of Land Resources,
Ministry of Rural Development, NBO Buildings, 'G' Wing,
Nirman Bhavan, New Delhi - 110011.

ANNEXURE -.
(a). THE WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS MAY BE
SANCTIONED AT THE RATE PRESCRIBED BY THE
CENTRAL GOVT. FROMTIME TO TIME. THE PREVALENT
RATE WITH EFFECT FROM 1ST APRIL 2000, is RS. 6,000
PER HECTARE,
(b). CEILING ON ADMINISTRATIVE OVERHEADS

1. At OROA Level (Rs.

WDT Members Training (For 10 WOP's) Rs.30,000
Proportionate Expenditure for one WOP Rs. 3,000
Miscellaneous Expenditure/WOP Rs. 3,000
(A) Total for one Watershed Project Rs. 6,000
2. At PIAIWOT Level (For 10 WOP's)
(a) WDT members honorarium Rs. 7,50,000
(b) TAIDA Rs. 4,50,000
(c) Office Staff / Contingencies Rs. 3",00,000
Total for 10WDP's Rs. 15,00,000
(B) Expenditure for One WOP Rs. 1,50,000

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Watershed Development Programme 203

3. At Village Level
(a) Watershed Secretary & Volunteers
Honorarium/Salary Rs. 1,20,000
(b)TAlDA Rs. 12,000
(C) Office Contingencies Rs. 12,000
Total for each Watershed Rs. 1,44,000
GRAND TOTAL COST CEILING ON
ADMINISTRATIVE OVERHEADS
(A+B+C) PER WATERSHED
OF SOOHAAREA Rs. 3,00,000

ANNEXURE - II
CHART SHOWING THE RELEASE OF PROJECT FUNDS
BYDRDA
%
Install· Component
Year ~ci Agency % Break
-ment Breakup
up
1st 111 15% PIA 9% Administrative Cost 2%
Community Org. 4%
. Training 3%
WC 6% Works 6%
2nd 2nd 15% PIA 4% Administrative Cost 2%
Community Org. :1%
Training 1%
WC. 11% Works 11%
3rd 15% WC 15% Works 15%
3,d 4th 15% PIA 3% Administrative Cost 2%
Training 1%
·WC· 12% Works 12%
51h 15% WC 15% Works 15%

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-__;"---
204 NEERU - MEERU

4th 6th 15% PIA 2% Administrative Cost 2%

WC 13% Works 13%
5th 7th 10% PIA 2% Administrative Cost 2%
WC 8% Works 8%
(3-Source:- http://www.crdap.org/revisedguidelines.htm)
ACTION PLAN

A massive programme for development of all the degraded

lands in Andhra Pradesh in ten years was launched during 1997.
The Ten Year Action Plan for development includes water lands,
degraded lands (i.e. dry lands which are being cultivated under rain-
fed conditions) and degraded reserve forests. It is envisaged to
develop 10 million hectares of degraded and wastelands (17.25Iakh
ha. by Forest Department; 4.55 lakh ha. by Agriculture Department
and 78.20 lakh ha. by Rural DevelopmentDepartment),with an outlay
of about US $ 888.89 million (*Rs. 4000 crores) from 1997 to 2007 at
the rate of 1 million hectares every year by the Department of Rural
Development, Forest and Agriculture. About 38.19 lakh hectares
have already been covered through 8514 watersheds, which is the
largest number in the whole country.
(FROM 1995-96 ONWARDS) UPTO SEPTEMBER2003
No. of Area under Treatment
S.No. Scheme
WS in Lakh Ha.
-
1 2 3 4
1 DPAP 296 14.83
* 287
2 DDP 552 2.76
3 IWDp· 902 5.09
4 EAS 1884 9.52
5 APHM 100 0.50
6 RlbFVI 1243 2.63 _j

-----D~;M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Watershed Development Programme 205

7 RIDF VIII-I 290 1.48

8 RIDF VIII-II 262 1.10
9 WDF 28 0.28
Total 7857 36.36

* Watersheds sanctioned under Hariyali in DPAP Scheme.

Watershed projects under implementation. 8514
Land under watershed treatment. 38.19 lakh ha.
Amount invested on participatory
watershed programme
(upto September 2003). Rs.1244.00 Crores
Amount generated as people's contribution
for watershed development fund. Rs.29.60 crores

Prior to 1994 a total area of 1.94 million ha. has treated by

Department of Agricultural and Department of Rural Development
where as 2.75 million ha...las been taken up for treatment between
1995 and 2001.
SELECTION CRITERIA FOR WATERSHEDS

After detailed deliberation, selectton criteria have been

finalizedto select most deservingand deqradedareas for the selection
of watersheds.
The following are the selection criteria:

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
206 NEERU - MEERU

Max.
Range Mark Weigh-
tage
1 No. of small margins <25% 5
farmers > 25 & < 50% 10
>50% 15 15
2 % of SC/ST holding <10% 3
out of total > 10 & 25% 5
>25% 10 10
3 % of women organized <20% 3
in SHGs in the habitation >20% & <50% 5
and participating in >50% 10 10
programme
4 Status of ground·water <10 mts 2
>10 & <15 mts. 3
>15mts 5 5
5 APSRAC VL 6
L 12
M 18
H 24
VH 30 30
6 Live Stock <1000 (Nos.) 2
>1000 & < 2000 3
>2000 5 5
7 No. of families affected <50 3
linvolved in migration >50 & <: 100 5
and landless people >100 10 10
involved in wage
employment.
8. Contiguity and macro Yes 5
watershedfor saturation. No . 0 5

---.;......-Dr.M.C:R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-~---
 Watershed Development Programme 207

9. Availability of faIIow/ <10% 3

waste/CPR for the poor
to utilize usufruct and
willingnessof community
to permit usufruct to
landless.
Total 100
EVALUATION OF WATERSHEDS
Evaluationstudiesare taken up in the watershedson quarterly
basis. Andhra Pradesh State Remote Sensing Application Centre
(APSRAC) is using satellite application and the satellite imageries
are used for evaluation. Required database is made available for
monitoring and mid term evaluation. The Annual evaluation of
watersheds in September, 2002 has reveeled the following impact:
-
1. No. of districts covered 20
2. No. of watersheds evaluated 5298
3. Average increase in water levels (meters) 1.96
4. No. of wells rejuvenated 43%
5. Additional area brought under cultivation (Ac.) 3,34,755
6. Decrease in labour migration 61%
7. Increase in milk production (Ltrs. Per day) 3,71,328
8. Additional area brought under horticulture
/ afforestation (Ac) 3,56,046
Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) -
VI Watershed Proiects

NABARD has sanctioned 1243 RIDF Projects covering

treatment of an area of 2.63 lakh hectares with Rs. 139.03 Crores to
22 districts during 2000-2001. The Govt. of Andhra Pradesh have
released an amount of Rs.95.68 Crores upto September 2003. An
<, amount of Rs. 93.73 Crores has been utilised upto September 2003.

\ Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Institute
ofAndhraPradesh-----
208 NEERU-MEERU

RIDF-VIII(Phase-I) (RD+Others) SMC PROJ.ECTS

NABARD has sanctioned 290 SMC projects under RIDF VIII,
soil & moisture conservation projects during 2002-03 for Rs. 41.08
Crores to Rural Development and other sectors to 17 districts and
subsequently project cost is revised to RS.35.52 crores. So far
RS.33.68Crores have been utilized out of Rs. 28.54 Crores released.
(upto September 2003).

RIDF-VIII(Phase-II) (RD+Others Sector)

NABARD has sanctioned 262 SMC Projects under RIDF VIII

Phase-II (RD&Others sector) for Rs.53.65 crores k> 19 districts with
during 2002-03. The GOAP have released an amount of Rs.12.69
lakhs for implementation.

So far an amount of Rs.20.90 crores utilised upto September

2003. The RIDF-VIII Phase-II (RD & Others Sector) project will be
completed in all respects by March-2004.

. ', ,.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh----,./

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Watershed Development Programme 211

Glossary

AGY Adarsh Gaon Yojana, or Ideal Village Scheme,

operated by the state of Maharashtra in
collaboration with local NGOs.
Bund Soil conservation barrier made of earth, stone, or
vegetation. Also the earthen dam that forms an
Irrigation tank or percolation tank.
Check dam A small earthen or stone structure that captures
runoff water in a drainage line. Like a percolation
tank but smaller in scale.
COWDEP Comprehensive Watershed Development Program,
an early watershed project in Maharashtra.
CRIDA The Central Research Institute for Dryland
Agriculture, located in Hyderabad, is part of the
Indian Council of Agricultural Research, sponsored
by the Central Government. Its mandate is to
promote productive rainfed agriculture in areas
with low rainfall.
DPAP Drought Prone Areas Program, funded by the
Indian Ministry of Rural Development.
Drainage line A dry streambed or gully where water concentrates
during heavy rainfall.
ICAR Indian Council of Agricultural Research, a group of
national research institutes
ICRISAT International Crops Research Institute for the
Semi-arid Tropics, a Future Harvest center located
in India
212 NEERU- MEERU

IGWDP Indo-German Watershed Development Project

operated by NGOs·in collaboranon with the
government of Maharashtra.

Irrigation An artificial pond that collects runoff water that is

tank used for gravity-fed irrigation. Water is distributed
by gravity through agate in the tank bund to irrigate
the fields below.

IWDP Integrated Watershed Development Project,

operated by state governments with financial
support and technical assistance from the World
Bank.

Jal The Water Conservation Department of the

Sandharan Government of Maharashtra.

JRY Jawahar ROjgarYojana is a program funded by the

central _governmentto provide wage employment
fqr rural people.
MYRADA An NGO located in Bangalore, Karnataka, which
Works in several southern states including
Andhra Pradesh.
NCAP National Centre for Agricultural Economics and
Policy, an Indian government research institute in
New Delhi, which helped conduct the 1997 survey
for this study.

NGO Non-governmental organization

NGOI Collaboration between nongovernmental and

government governmental organizations
Watershed Development Programme 213

NWDPRA National Watershed Development Project for

Rainfed Areas, operated'by the Indian Mi9istry of
Agriculture.
-
Panchayat Village government
Percolation An artificial pond that collects runoff water, causing
tank it to infiltrate into the ground to rechar~e
..... "-
J

groundwater aquifers.
Pilot Project Refers to the World Bank Pilot Project for
Watershed Development in Rainfed Areas, which
operated in four Indian states from 1984 to 1991.
Sarpanch A village™s political leader.
Shramdam Voluntary community labor that contributes to
community welfare.
Social NGO working in Maharashtra, which was founded
Centre by Jesuits in 1969
Social Social mechanisms used to protect common lands
fencing

Taluka A subdistrict administrative unit containing up-to

200 villages

(2- Source:- Oliver Springate-Baginski, V. Ratna Reddy, M.

Gopinath Reddy.and S. Galab, 'Watershed Development in
Andhra pradesh - A Policy Review - Livelihood-Policy
Relationships in South Asia - Working Paper-So; www.york.ac.ukl
inst/sei/prp/pdfdocs/appolicy.pcff; http://www.geog.leeds.ac.ukl
projects/prp/pdfdocs/appolicy.pdf)
 8
ROLE OF GROUNDWATER
DEPARTMENT IN
NEERU-MEERU PROGRAMME
INTRODUCTION:

Groundwater utilisation for domestic and Irrigation purposes

has been In practice in the State since historical times. Due to its
dependable supply even during droughts, its use increased
enormously In recent years through construction of large number of
dug wells, bore wells, tube wells and filter points to meet the increased
demand for agriculture, industry and domestic sectors. The number
of wells Increased from 8 lakhs during 1975 to 22 lakhs by 2000.
CommensurateIncreaseis also registeredin the area irrigatedthrough
groundwater from 81akhhectares to 261akhhectares during the same
period. Recurring droughts and increase in groundwater usage in
different sectors are causing continuous depletion in water levels and
drying up of shallow groundwater structures, particularly in non-
command and upland areas of the State.
In the present context of excessive exploitation of
groundwater resource to meet the increased demand under various
sectors sustainability has become a question mark. Many of the dug
wells and bore wells that have been executed for water supply
schemes, Irrigation and other uses have become insufficient and
unproductive during the course of few years .resulting·in search of
alternative sources and drilling to deeper depths for the sl.lstainability
of the water supply.
The state has embarked upon a peoples' participatory
Role of Groundwater Department in 215
Neeru-Meeru Programme

programme called Neeru-Meeru,meaning"Water and You", launched

on 1at of May 2000, for promoting water conservation in an aggressive
manner and on a campaign mode by involving the following
departments for executing the Neeru-Meeru works through Water
Conservation Mission under the Chairmanship of Hon'ble Chief
Minister

SI. No NAME OF THE DEPARTMENT

1) Rural Development
2) Forest
3) Endowments
4) Minor Irrigation, I & CAD
5) Medium Irrigation, I & CAD
6) Minor Irrigation, PR
7) . Rural Water Supply, PR
8) Municipal Administration and Urban Development

. The State Ground Water Department as a Nodal agency, is

actively Involved in the assessment of Ground Water Resource,
Identification of problematic areas, their prloritisation, selection of
suitable sites for construction of recharge structures and evaluation
of impact of the Structures on groundwater regime.
The Ground Water Department was established in 1971 with
the aim of delineating potential aquifer zones, development of
groundwater, its management on scientific lines and help the
government and public to develop and manage the resource in an
effective manner.
Over the decades, the groundwater scenario changed
216
NEERU - MEERU

significantly, with shallow wells giving away to Dug Cum Bore Wells,
Bore Wells, and culminating into deep Bore Wells as the usage of
groundwater increased rapidly and water levels fell steeply.
Presently, the groundwater accounts for almost 50% of'the
irrigation and 80% rural drinking water needs.
With the passage of time, the stress in the department shifted
from investigations for selection of sites to management of
groundwater. The ever increasing usage of groundwater, the erratic
rainfall, recurring drought conditions have resulted ln steep fall in
groundwater levels and fall in sustainable yields of bore Wells. As a
consequence, the need for scientific estimation of groundwater
resources, with methodologies evolved after considerable
deliberations was greatly felt.

ESTIMATION:

During 2002, based on the recommendations of the

Groundwater Estimation Committee, 1997 the department undertook
the task of resource estimation adopting the basin concept. The
state was demarcated into 1193 basins for the purpose of estimation.
Andhra Pradesh has been the only State in the Country to complete
the resource estimation with information up to village level. Reports
published in Telugu and English are distributed up to village level to
bring awareness.
GROUNDWATERRESOURCEIN ANOHR.APRADeSH

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Groundwater Department in 217
Neeru-Meeru Programme

Based on the stage of development, the groundwater basins

in the State have been categorised into:

Over developed basins . 118 Stage of development >100%

Critical basins 79 Stage of developmen
Between· 90-100,%
Semi Critical basins 188 Stage of develop-
ment Between 70-90%
Safe basins 772 Stage of development <70%
Poor GW Quality basins 36
STATUSOF GROUNDWA1ER BASINS
(exdudingpoor quality:oreas)

CATEGORISATION:
Besides the above, the department categorised the mandals .
in the State into FIVE groups based on stage of development, depth
to water levels and trend in groundwater levels as described below.
. Cat I DTWlevel Stage of develop- More than 2m
> 20m ment >100% decline.in waterlevel
Cat II DTWlevel Stage of develop- 1-2 m decline in
Stress
15-20m ment between water level
mandals
90-100%
Cat III DTWlevel Stage of develop- 0~1m decline in
10':15m mentbetween70-90% water level
218 NEERU·MEERU

Stress Cat IV DTW level Stage of develop- Rising trend

mandals 5-10m ment between
50-70%
Cat V DTW level Stage of develop- Rising trend
0-5m ment <50%

The first three categories representgroundwater stress areas

and are being given priorityfor implementationof Neeru-Meeruworks.
During May 2001, the total number of mandai in the State under Cat
I, II &11were 558 and the number decreased to 494 during May 02;
however it again increased to 675 by end of 2003 on account of
severe drought conditions in the Water Year 2002-03.
CATEGORISATION OF MANOAlS·MAV 03
WATER YEAR 2002·2003

MONITORING SCENARIO

The department is implementing the World Bank aided

Hydrology Project since 1997 (with an outlay of Rs. 26.64 crores) to
establish an effective Hydrologic Information System for sustainable
development and management of groundwater resource in the state.
Role of Groundwater Department in 219
Neeru-Meeru Programme

GEOLOGY AND PIEZOll.'ETER.NETWORK IN ANDHRAPRADESH.

'''W''.\I.tI··II!III~tll.I'utl'''ln _
'iUiafillt. "'
!.000_n""n
:IlIu~ ••
aIorcl.ultt

'Cd~.,.I.
!'tDtl ......... "
,r».IWfii.
~tII •• IIIIG
.Kllnuf,
'.Lo1••• I.11
,1;'.111.. 4"...
:~1:hfflU"ry
.....
1IJ~"I~''''01'''

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.(fl;.t'I~~II¥~
.;';I~·lln·.'J:J';
Glll
• :"I,(tlllrIIJ 'Ol';~!:
~ /'ft'; ~',~~r,~

);> Constructed 1010 Piezometers

);> Provided 880 Digital Water Level Recorders, to get continuous
and reliable data on the changing groundwater level scenario
);> Proposed to construct additional 440 Piezometers to cover all
the groundwater basins in the state.
);> Upgraded the Chemical labs to Level 11+and Level II to analyse
72 & 30 parameters respectively.
);> Established computerised data centres at state and district levels
for collating, analysing and disseminating of data.
);> The high frequency data is being analysed to study the impact of
recharge measures under Neeru-Meeru and impact of drought
conditions on groundwater regime.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
220 NEERU· MEERU

INVESTIGATIONS BY GROUND WATER DEPARTMENT

As a part of Neeru-Meeru Programme, detailed micro level
investigation have been initiated in the over exploited basins to identify
suitable areas for construction of recharge structures.
Investigationsare also beingconductedunder various phases
of RIDF to select suitable sites for construction of Artificial Recharge
Structures.

IMAPCT ANALYSIS
The department undertakes impact analysis studies of the
recharge structures constructed by establishing special observatlon
wells. Study of the water levels of pre and post project are analysed
to know the impact
The data thus generated is studied, analysed and reports
prepared for the consideration of the government. The analysed data
is also furnished to the Government during cabinet meetings, Video
conferences and other review meetings.
The groundwater scenario in the State, District and Mandai
is depicted through Maps, Charts and Hydrographs to help the
administration to prepare action plan to combat droughts etc.
The impact analysis studies indicate an lncrernental rise in
water levels as observed in many Piezometersestablished in different
parts of the State. Certain examples detailing the impact of the
structures on the groundwater regime are depicted in the form of
Composite Hydrographsgenerated from the water level data retrieved
from the Automatic Water Level Recorders installed on purpose built
Piezometers.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Groundwater Department in 221
Neeru-Meeru Programme

IMPACT ANALYSIS AT MICRO lEVEL

-
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BlrotU: NEERlJUIIRU
• ~ ~ - ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 7 ~ ~
~.~ .~~ .~ ~~ .~ .~~.7.~~
C:~C:::XC:(l)(D-(D~m~~~QOQ:;;-;:;:;;;:;~QQ~Q~Q~qQq
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NEERUMEERU

IMPAct ANALYSI$AT l\oUCROLEVEL

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.... ...

...

BI ra III 1'UIIlU-f\I UIO.U

AWARENESS CAMPAIGNS

Vigorous campaigns are taken up by the Government with

the active involvement of NGOs for propagating the concept of
conservation and recharge to groundwater. Awareness is created by

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
222 NEERU • MEERU

conducting grama. sabhas during Janmabhoomi programmes and

through seminars,trainingsorganisedfor the membersof Water Users
Association, Vana Samrakshana Samithis etc. The Government
launched a 10 day long "Jalachaitanyam" Programme at village level
with the active participation of all the government departments, public
representatives and the general public. The Ground Water
Departmentprovided informationon groundwaterscenario uptovillage
level along with microbasin map with drainage particulars which not
only brought awareness among the villagers but also enabled them
to prepare action plans for treatment.
As a part of this programme, efforts were made to enlighten
the people about the availability of resources in their village, the
quantum utilised, balance available,the water level scenario and other
relevant information while impressing upon the need for immediate
steps to conserve and recharge groundwater in respective villages.

III. WALTA, 2002 : -

The Government enacted WALTA (during 02), which has
provisions to regulate groundwater in over exploited basins and
promote conservation and recharge measures in needy areas.
(Source:- Groundwater Department, Governmentof Andhra Pradesh.
Hyderabad.)

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 9
ROLE OF FOREST DEPARTMENT IN
NEERU - MEERU
"Forest means water: water means bread: bread means life"
A. Forests are occupying nearly 1/4th of the Geographical area in
Andhra Pradesh. They are the birthplaces of many streams which
start from the hilly Forest Areas and develop into rivulets,
tributaries of rivers and rivers before they flow and empty into the
Bay of Bengal.
In the Forest areas various types of soil and moisture conservatlon
structures like Contour trenches, Percolation tanks, Rock Fill.
Dams, Check-dams, Sunken Gully Pits & Vegetative structures
etc., are being undertaken in various schemes like World ~ank
funded Forestry Projects, NABARD funded RIDF Projects,
Centrally Sponsored Schemes, Compensatory Afforestation
Schemes etc. The water holding capacity of all structures was
measured in Lakh Cubic Mtrs. of water that can be impounded
and percolate down .into the ground water. The Neeru-Meeru
programme is continuing from 1999-2000 and it has to be
continued for another five years till saturation levels of watershed
areas are reached.
Wherever possible Neeru-Meeru works are being executed by
Vana Samrakshana Samithis which are Self-Help-Groups.
B. If the SMC works are executed upto saturation watershed level,
there may not be any shortage of water in future even in the
worst years of drought as whatever rain fall Is received will be
made to percolate and reach the ground water thereby recharging
it completely.
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
 224 NEERU - MEERU

C. From Phase -I to Phase - V of "Neeru - Meeru" (From 1.5.2000

to 31.12.2002) the following are the achievements.
• 1138 Lakh CUb.Metersof Water impoundingcapacitycreated.
• 458 Lakh Cubic Meters earthwork of Trenches.
• 7231 Number of Check dams.
• . 3.13 Lakh number of Rock Fill Dams.
• 6847 Percolation Tanks.
• Expenditure of Rs. 249 Crores.
The following are some of the success stories of Neeru - Meeru.:
.(Please See the Chapter-16 for further details)
Initiatives Taken by Forest Department in Women
Empowerment.

Women are the major sufferersof environmentaldegradation,

more speCificallythose from the weaker sections and ethnic groups
of the society living in and around the forest are dependent for their
lively hood on the forest. There is hardly any economic or house
hold activity that is exclusively carried out by men, without direct and/
or indirect involvement of women i.e., taking up domestic tasks like
cooking, to sustain the family and also in other economic activities
like, growing food crops, fetching water, gathering fuel, collecting,
processing and marketing NTFP etc; to add to the family income.
They perform various forestry activities like nursery ralslnq, planting,
weeding etc. where they have an upper hand, as they possess the
finesse and skills that are needed for such activities and also take up
arduous tasks like soil and moisture conservation practices inside
the forest.
Women in rural areas in general, and in forested areas in
--p>articular,depend largely on forests to fulfil their daily house hold
necessities and hence they understand the importance of forests

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Forest Department in 225
Neeru-Meeru

better, and playa greater role in safeguarding the environment. For

these reasons the State Government of Andhra Pradesh realizing
the important role of women in forestry sector evolved several
initiatives to effectively empower the women by involving them in
protection and management of forest by forming Vana Samrakshana
Samithis. Following are the important initiatives taken by the
Government for empowering the women.
);> Minimum50% representationgiven to women in General body
and the Managing Committee of the VSS.
);> Either Chairperson or Vice-Chairperson of VSS Managing
Committee shall be a woman.
);> Since women realize the importance of forests in a better
way, Woman CommunityVolunteers are engaged to educate
and create awareness among VSS members. They
particularlyhelp in strengtheningthe women members in micro
planning and implementation.
);> Women thrift groups are formed for improving the income
and makingwomen VSS memberseconomicallyindependent.
);> Activities relating to value addition of NTFP such as Adda
leaf plate making, Tamarind cake making, Bee keeping etc.,
are mostly taken by women VSS members in VSS areas.
);> The Government has issued orders for reservation of women
in recruitment at various levels in Forest Department which
will go a long way in improving their economic & social status.
HumCIJI Resource Development Initiatives In Forest
Department:

For efficientworking of any department or organization, the

people working in it are the most important "Assets". So due
importance should be given to Human Resource Development.Forest

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh--------
226 NEERU - MEERU

Department has a staff of about 10000 people and it is working with

131akhpeople in a participatoryforest managementcalled Comniunity
Forest Management. All the staff and VSS people have to be trained
for taking up the onerous task of forest protection and management.
TRAINING:
Training is most efficient and effective way for Human
Resource Development. In forest department, all the staff from Indian
Forest Service Officers upto Forest Beat Officers are trained before
they enter into the service. IFS Officers are trained at India Gandhi
National Forest Academy at Dehra Dun for a period of 2 years and at
Lal Bahadur Sastry National Academy of administration at Missouri
for 4 months and in the State for 8 months. State Forest Service
Officers are trained at S.F.S. colleges at Coimbattore, Dehra Dun
and Burnihat for a period of 2 years and within the State for 1 one.
The Forest Range Officers are trained at Forest Range Officer's
Colleges located at Coimbattore, Dehra Dun, Chanda, Kurseong etc,
for a period of 2 years and within the State for 1 year. The Forest
Section Officers are trained at A.P. Forest Academy, Dulapally for a
period of one year. The Forest Beat Officers are trained at A.P. School
of Forestry, Yellandu, Khammam Dist. for a period of 6 months.
In addition to the above, basic training, the officers at all levels
are trained for short-term or refresher courses at various institutes
located through out India. 1 to 2 weeks trainings are given to the staff
and VSS peopleat Range/Division/Circlelevel as well as at A.P. Forest
Academy, Dulapally periodically.
In addition to the trainings, study tours, workshops and
seminars are being conducted for the staff, VSS people, NGOs,
peoples representatives etc., periodically to update their knowledge.
The A.P. Forest Academy, Dulapally has w.on the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Role of Forest Department in 227
Neeru-Meeru

prestigious Indian Counsel of Forestry Management Research

Education award for the year 2000-2001for outstanding work in
the discipline of forest extension.

LINKAGES:
Forest Department is coordinating in Human Resource
Development with other premier institutes in the State as well as
outside the State like; Dr. Marri Channa Reddy Human Resource
Development Institute of AP, Administration Staff College of India,
National Institute of Rural Development, Engineering Staff College
of India, MANAGE, Indian Institute of Forest Management at Bhopal,
Forest Research Institute at Dehra Dun etc.

INFRASTRUCTURE FACILTIES:
For the efficient functioning of Officers and staff, several
infrastructures facilities like; quarters, hiring of vehicles, wireless sets,
telephones and cell phones for efficient communication are provided
of computers, fax, Xerox machines etc are being provided to improve
their efficiency.

INCENTIVES AWARDS / REWARDS:

For encouragingthe staff, various incentiveawards have been
instituted by the State as follows:
a. VANAMITHRA AWARDS - FOR EXCELLENCE IN
AFFORESTATION. TO INDIVIDUALS, EDUCATIONAL
INSTITUTES, GOVT. OFFICIALS, NGO'S, ETC.
b. FOREST SERVICE MEDALS FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE
I. AP VANASAMRAKSHANA PATHAKAMU - 30
II. AP UTIAMA VANA SAMRAKSHANA PATHAKAMU - 10
III. AP VISHISTA VANA SAMRAKSHANA PATHAKAMU - 3

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
228 NEERU - MEERU

IV. AP MUKHYAMANTRI VANA SOURYA PATHAKAMU -1.

COUNSELLING SYSTEM:
To have transparency in the transfers, counseling system
has been introduced and it is being successfully implemented in all
cadres upto Asst. Conservator of Forests cadre.
OTHER MEASURES:

The Financial Powers of all Officers have been increased for

their efficient working. Administration powers are also decentralized.
For good work done by the department publicity is being given in the
Print, Electronic Media.

WORKSHOP ON IGoverning For Resultsll (CHANGE AGENTS):

A workshop was conducted at Dr. Marri Channa Reddy

Human Resource Development Institute of AP, Hyderabad from 21st
to 23rd August 2002 involving the staff at all levels. The Government
represented by Hon'ble Chief Minister (who attended the workshop
on all the three days) Hon'ble Ministerfor Forests, PrincipalSecretary,
EFS&T Deptt. and several Forests Officers participated in this
Workshop in which several importantdecisionswere taken for efficient
working of the Forest Department.
A.P. FORESTACADEMY, DULAPALLY

1. INTRODUCTION: A.P. Forest Academy is located on Hyderabad

- Nagpur National Highway in DulapallyForest Block, Dulapallyvillage
of Ranqa Reddy District at 24 kms away from the city of Hyderabad.
This Academy was established in the year 1987 as "State
Institute on Forestry Training "under CIDA project. It was renamed
as A.P. Forest Academy (APFA) w.e.f. January 2001. APFA was well
equipped training I conference halls, latest cartographic & GIS
facilities, audio-visual aids, library, hostel and transport facilities to

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Forest Department in 229
Neeru-Meeru

undertake training programmes, seminars, workshops and other

related activities.
2. TRAINING PROGRAMMES:-
APFA organizes two types of training programs viz., Job
course training and Refresher courses.
a. Job course Trainings: In order to conductjob course training
to field functionaries of A. P. Forest Departmenta forest School
was started in 1926 at Nizamabad. It was shifted to
Mahboobabad and subsequently to Yellandu in the year 1941.
The Forest Guard training school functioning at Sudikonda in
East Godavari District was merged with this institute in the
year 1969. From 01.10.2001 onwards the job course training
(1 year) pertaining Forest Section Officers is running in APFA.
So far (3) Batches of Forest Section Officers have been trained
in this Academy.

No. of FSOs attended

i. 1st Batch (2000 - 2001) 47

ii. lind Batch (2001 - 2002) 33
iii. Ilird Batch (2002 - 2003) 50
Undergoing
b) Refresher courses: Refresher courses to functionaries of AP
Forest Department have been started from 1987 under CIDA
scheme. Subsequently under World Bank aided A.P. Forestry
Project, the instifute has taken up trainings on Joint Forest
Management, MIS, GIS, Bio-diversity, Nursery technology,
Neeru-Meeru etc., Afterwards under NABARD assisted RIDF
and World Bank assisted APCFM project the training
programmes to the personnel of A.P. Forest Department are
continued.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
230 NEERU-MEERU

a. Training programmes are also organized to chairpersons

and members of Vana Samarakshana Samithis / EDC,
representatives of NGOs at this Academy.
b, This academy is also organizing programmes to the
functionaries of various other Departments such as
Municipal Administration, Irrigation & CAD, Animal
Husbandry and Panchayat Raj Departments.
c, Academy is also conducting training programmes to the
F.D staff of the other state such as Madhya Pradesh,
Uttar Pradesh etc.,
d. One' International training programme on "Nursery
practices with emphasis on medicinal plants" also has
been conducted to the persons from Srilanka.
e.. During the last two years, two batches of IFS officers
were trained in compulsory training course in this
academy by the Government of India.
Following the position of refresher programs taken up in the last (5)
years:

Year No.of Courses No.of participants

1~98 - 99 43 861
1999 - 00 40 1264
2000 - 01 74 2349
2001 - 02 . 136 2800
2002 -03 170 3938
Total 463 11,212
During 2003-04, it is envisaged to take-up 144 training
programmes for both Govt. agencies and Communities & NGOs
through Academy. Two compulsory training programmes of IFS
officers of various states will be taken up during the year. Programmes

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Forest Department in 231
Neeru-Meeru

for the functionaries of other Departments will be organised from time

to time as per the requirement. It is planned to taken up one or two
commercial training programme every month during the year in
subjects such as Geomatics (Remote Sensing, GIS and GPS),
medicinal plants, advance nursery and plantation management
techniques etc., keeping in view of the demand from various sources.

3. OTHER ACTIVITIES:
In addition to organize the above training programmes, this institute
is conducting workshops/Seminars, study tours, Co-ordination of
training in other institutes, development of training materials and
publication of house magazines.
a) Workshops on subjects like Self-group appreciation,
institutional assessment study, social environmental impact
assessment, linkages between PR and JFM etc., to the
personnel of Forest Departmentand other Departments have
been conducted in this academy.
b) From 01.01.2001 to this date (27) workshops have been
conducted.
c) Interactive seminars (5) Nos. on technology improvement of
R&D wing have been'conducted in the Academy.
d) Through APFA, different categories of officers of the AP
Forest Department have been deputed to other institutes like
IIFM Bhopal, IGFRIJhansi, Instituteof FinancialManagement
Chennai, NRSA, Hyderabad and Dr.MCR Institute of
Administration, Hyderabad etc., for imparting trainings.
e) Academy has brought out 3 books in English (JOint Forest
Management, Rapid assessment of medicinal plants of A.P,
National workshop of Medicinal plants), 3 books in Telugu
(Neeru - Meeru, JFM Guidelines and Arranya Mitra) and 4

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra-Pradesh-----
232 NEERU-MEERU

broachers. One (1) half yearly journal viz., Vanasamrakshini

is also published by the Institute.
f) This academy has produced videocassettes and CDs on
JFM/CFM, Neeru-Meeru (Water Conservation), NTFP and
Medicinal Plants for distribution to field units for extension
and publicity purpose.
IMPRESSION OF VISITORS: . The institute has been visited by
distinguishedpersons like Mark Proffenberger,Asian Forest Network,
Dr R Soopramanien,SeniorCounsel,World Bank, Dr Sarala Gopalan,
Consultant, World Bank, Ridley Nelson, World Bank, Sri A.S. Sarangi,
lAS, Prl, Secretary, Govt. of Orissa, Sri H.S. Brahrna; lAS, Prl,
Secretary (E.E.S&T), Govt. of Andhra Pradesh, Sri J.C. Kala, IFS,
Prl.Chief Conservator of Forests, Tamil Nadu, Chennai, Sri H.J. Dora,
IPS, Director General of Police, Andhra Pradesh and RP.S. Katwal,
IFS, Director General, I.C.F.RE. (Indian Council for Forest Research
& Education ). These VIP visitors have expressed their appreciation
for the facilities created and good work carried out in A.P. Forest
Academy.

(Source:- Department of Forests., Govt. of Andhra Pradesh,

Hyderabad.)

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 10
ROLE OF ENDOWMENTS
DEPARTMENT
OBJECTOF THE SCHEME:-
For ensuing convergence of the efforts and to promote water
conservation in an aggressive manner, the Government brought all
water conservation activities into a campaign mode and christened
the same as "Neeru-Meeru" meaning water and you. The concept of
Neeru-Meeru envisages amongst the people to ensure their
participation & to facilitate conservation efforts.

VARIOUS ACTIVITIES UNDER NEERU - MEERU: -

All the activities that are being taken up under "Neeru-Meeru"
in our department are aimed at creating more filling space for
harvesting rain water, which contributes to more ground water
recharge. Various activities being carried out under "Neeru-Meeru"
are
• Continuous Contour Trenching
• Check Dams and percolation tanks in the discharge
areas
• Contour Bunding
• Desilting of Tanks
• Rock Fill Dams
• Roof Top Water Harvesting Structure

NEERU-MEERU PROGRESS:-
The 1st Phase of "Neeru-Meeru" was launched on 1st May

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
234 NEERU - MEERU

2000 coinciding with 12thround of Janmabhoomi and implemented

up to 31.10.2000. The programme is continued.
The duration of "Neeru-Meeru" Programme:

Phase-II 01.11.2000 to 30.04.2001

Phase-III 01.05.2001 to 31.08.2001
Phase-IV Not taken up
Phase-V 01.02.2002 to 31.12.2002
Phase-VI 01.01.2003 to 31.05.2003

During the Neeru-Meeru Phase-I, II, III, V & VI various works

carried out with a volume of 9,59,561 Cum., against to the financial
involvement of Rs. 586.66 Lakhs.

Details of the Volume of Works carried out during "Neeru-

Meeru" Phase-I, II, III, V and VI are furnished below.

Volume Financial (Rs. in Lakhs) in Cum.

Phase-I 302818 185.70
Phase- II 209589 128.29
Phase- III 287621 223.45
Phase- V 94533 31.04
Phase- VI 65000 18.18
Total 959561 586.66
Funds: The Requirement of funds was met from the Devasthanam
funds only.
Apart to this programme, Plantation,. Land Scaping and
Flower garden works were also carried out incurring a sum of
RS.204.44 Lakhs under Phase-I, II and V. The details are furnished
hereunder.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 ~£ 6 SV'2: S£~ ~O'S 009~ le6ueJeM 'H
~~ LL ~v'9 92:S~ 6~'Lv 69£2: wewwe4>t '9~
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RoleofEndowments
Department 237

2. Garden - -
TOTAL - 21.04
PHASE-I 167742 71.44
PHASE-II 7710 4.87
PHASE-III - 21.04
GRAND TOTAL 175452 97.35

Sir I<alahasteswara Swamy vari Devasthanam. Srikalahasthi

Check Dam

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
238 NEERU-MEERU

SRI BHRAMARAMBA MALLIKARJUNA SWAMY

DEVASTHANAM SRISAILAM, KURNOOL DISTRICT
Works taken UDand com Dieted

Activity Volume in Cu.m Finance Rs In Lakhs

CCT/C.B 41234 33.47
Check Dam 298 (2) 6.13
RTH 270(10} 0.14
Percolation Tank 135820(3} 39.23
Rock Fill Dams 176(4} 0.38
Silt Clearance 815 0.45
Others (Plantation
and Landscaping) - 27.76
TOTAL 178613 104.56

SRI BHRAMARAMBA MALLIKARJUNA SWAMY

DEVASTHANAM, SRISAILAM, KURNOOL DISTRICT
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
S. ACTIVITY VOLUME FINANCE
No. (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)
PHASE·I
1. CCT/C.B 11909 6.85
2. Check Dams 298(2} 6.13
3. RTH 270 (10) 014
4. Rock Fill Dams 176 (4) 0.38
5. Silt Clearance
(Desilting) 8.15 0.45
TOTAL 13468 13.95

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh----

Role of Endowments Department 239

PHASE-II
1. Contour Bunding 29325 26
2. Others (Plantation) - 23.76
TOTAL 70920(3} 46.87
PHASE-III
1. Percolation Tank 70920(3} 23.11
2. Others (Plantation) - 23.76
TOTAL 70920(3} 46.87
PHASE-V
1. Others (Plantation) 4.00
TOTAL 4.00
PHASE-VI - Nil
PHASE-I 13468 13.95
PHASE -II 94225 42.74
PHASE -III . 70920 46.87
PHASE-V 4.00
PHASE-VI - Nil
GRAND TOTAL 178613 107.56

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
240 NEERU - MEERU

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Role of Endowments Department 241

SRI MAHANANDEESWARA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM,

MAHANANDI, KURNOOL DISTRICT
Activity Volume in u.m Finance Rs in Lakhs
CCT 959 0.57
Silt Clearance (Oesilting) 1063 0.75
TOTAL 2022 1.32
SRI MAHANANDESWARA SWAMYVARI DEVASTHANAM,
MAHANANDI
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
S. ACTIVITY VOLUME FINANCE
No. (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)

PHASE·I
1. C.C.T 311 0.15
2. Silt Clearance
(Oesilting) 1063 0.75
TOTAL 1374 0.90
PHASE-II
1. C.C.T 648 0.42
TOTAL 648 ,0.42
PHASE -III - -
PHASE-I 1374 0.90
PHASE -II 648 0.42
PHASE -III - -
GRAND TOTAL 2022 1.32

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
242 NEERU-MEERU

SRI LAXMI NARASIMHA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM,

YADAGIRIGUTTA, NALGONDA DISTRICT
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
Activity Volume in cu.m, Finance Rs. in Lakhs
CCT 1995 0.86
Check Dam 2655 (1) 4.00
RTH 36 (11) 0.34
Percolation Tank 2653 2.27
Others (Plantation
and Landscaping) - 7.34
TOTAL 7339 15.11

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED

S. ACTIVITY VOLUME FINANCE

No. (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)

PHASE -I
1. C.C.T 1394 0.57
2. Check Dams 2655 (1) 4.00
3. RTH 36 (11) 0.34
4. Percolation Tank 2653 2.27
TOTAL 6738 7.18
PHASE-II
5. CCT 601 0.29
TOTAL 601 0.29
PHASE-III
6. Plantation & Landscaping - 7.34
TOTAL - 7.34

----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
Role of Endowments Department 243

7. PHASE-V
Plantation 0.30
TOTAL 0.30
PHASE-I 6738 7.18
PHASE-II 601 0.29 .
PHASE-III 7.34
PHASE-IV 0.30
GRAND TOTAL 7339 15.11

SRI VEERA VENKATA SATYANARAYANA SWAMYVARI

DEVASTHANAM, ANNAVARAM, EAST GODAVARI DISTRICT
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
Activity Volume in cu.m. FinanceRs. in Lakhs
CCT 58487 24.72
Check Dam 5510 3.95
RTH 2127 (269) 1.10
Rock Fill Dams 178 (2) 0.26
Silt Clearance (Desilting) 26 0.25

TOTAL 66328 30.28

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
244 NEERU-MEERU

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED

S. ACTIVITY VOLUME FINANCE

No (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAISHS)

PHASE·I
1 C.C.T 12757 5.96
2 Contour Bunding 5510 3.95
3 RTH 92 (14) 0.26
4 Rock Fill Dams 178 (2) 0.26
5 Silt Clearance (Desilting) 26 0.25
TOTAL 18563 10.68
PHASE·II
1 CCT 45730 18.76
2 RTH 2035 (255) 0.84
TOTAL 47765 19.60
PHASE·III - -
TOTAL - -
PHASE·I 18653 1068
PHASE-II 47765 19.60
PHASE-III - -
GRAND TOTAL 66328 30.28

----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
Role of Endowments Department 245

DEVASTHANAM, ANNAVARAM, WEST GODAVARI DISTRICT

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
Activity Volume in cu.rn. Finance Rs. in Lakhs
CCT 1895 0.61
Contour Bunding ·1944 0.77
RTH 138 (30) 0.87
Silt Clearance
(Desilting) 7636 2.88
Others (Plantation
and Improving
Temple
Garden) - 9.23
TOTAL 11613 14.36

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
246 NEERU - MEERU

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED

S. VOLUME FINANCE
ACTIVITY
No. (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)
PHASE-I
1 C.C.T 708 0:26
2 Contour Bunding 459 0.19
3 RTH 78 (18) 0.23
4 Silt Clearance (Oesilting) 7636 2.88
TOTAL 8881 3.56
PHASE-II
1 CCT 1187 0.35
2 Contour Bunding 7485 0.58
3 RTH 60(12) 0.64
TOTAL 2732 1.57
PHASE-III
1 Plantation & Improving
Temple Garden - 9.23
TOTAL - 9.23
PHASE-I 8881 3.56
PHASE-II 2732 1.57
PHASE-III - 9.32
GRAND TOTAL 11613 14.36

----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh----

-----4SapeJd eJ4puv
!O alnmsul
al:lH~f~rV'fJa-----

LPG luaWj.redaa SluaWMopu3~oal01:l

248 NEERU - MEERU

SRI DURGA MALLESWARA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM,

VIJAYAWADA, KRISHNA DISTRICT
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
Activity Volume in cu.m, Finance Rs. in Lakhs
RTH 179 (10) 1.60
Others (Plantation) - 7.77
TOTAL 179 (10) 9.37

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED

S. ACTIVITY VOLUME FINANCE
No. (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)
PHASE-I
1 RTH 179 (10) 1.60
TOTAL 179 (10) 1.60
PHASE-II - -
TOTAL - -
PHASE-III
1 Plantation &
Infrastructure - 7.77
TOTAL - 7.77
PHASE-I 179 (10) 1.60
PHASE-II - -
PHASE-Ill - 7.77
GRAND TOTAL 179.(10) 9.37

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh----

· Role of Endowments Department 249

SRI RAJA RAJEESWARA SWAMY DEVASTHANAM

VEMULAWADA, KARIMNAGAR
WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED
Activity Volume in cu.m Finance Rs. In Lakhs
RTH
Silt Clearance
(Oesilting) 161892 (2) 57.49
Bunding 6500 2.26
Others (Plantation
& Landscaping) - 7.16
TOTAL 114535 53.90 .)

WORKS TAKEN UP AND COMPLETED

S. VOLUME FINANCE
ACTIVITY (IN CUMS) (Rs. IN LAKHS)
No.
PHASE ·1
1 RTH 281 (36) 2.75
Silt Clearance
(Oesilting) 32590 (2) 6.11
TOTAL 32871 (38) 8.86
PHASE·II
RTH 62 (10) 0.60
Silt Clearance 17602 (2) 9.76
TOTAL 17664 (12) 10.36
PHASE·III
Oesilting of Tanks 57500 (2) 25.26
Bunding 6500 2.26
Others - 2.65
TOTAL 64000 (2) 30.17
PHASE·V
Silt Clearance
(Oesilting) 37600 11.08
TOTAL 37600 11.08

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----
250 NEERU-MEERU

16600 5.28
5.28

10.36
30.17
PHASE-V 11.08
PHASE-VI 16600 5.28

(Source:-
Hyderabad).
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 II
VANA SAMRAKSHANA
SAMITHIES (VSS)
While we speak of availability of water and its conservation
we will have to look into the primary natural factors that are imperative
a
for rain - quantum of rain in particular area. In this context .as is
quite evident it is the trees and the extent of forest area which is the
basic natural factor that facilitates rain. Here, we may look into the
efforts and the programmes that are being carried on by the
department of forest under the Joint Forest Management - VANA
SAMRAKSHANA SAMITHIES (VSS).
JOINT FOREST MANAGEMENT (JFM) IN ANDHRA PRADESH
The State of Andhra Pradesh (AP) has 63.81 lakh Hectares
of forestland, which constitutes 23% of the state's geographical area.
With the population of both human and cattle increasing the pressure
on forests has also increased leading to their degradation. The limited
number of forest department staff are not in a position to effectively
conserve the forest resources. Hence, Joint Forest Management is
adopted which involves the local villagers in managing and protecting
the forests.
The (Indian) National Forest Policy of 1988 has recognized
the need for seeking the co-operation of local people in joint
management of forests. The Government of Andhra Pradesh has
also issued orders for constituting Village level forest protection
committees called Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) for
management and protection of forest resources.
About 17 lakh Hectares of forestland is under Joint Forest
Management in the State.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
252 NEERU - MEERU

Salient features of JFM

• The Joint Forest Management (JFM) programme envisages
constitution of Vana Samrakshana Samithies(VSS) has
certain rights, duties and responsibilities as specified in JFM
GO 173 (Please see Appendix-IV for details).
• Every household living in the hamlets / villages / cluster of
villages, particularly those depending on forest for the daily
needs, would have the option of becoming a Member of
Samithi. However, all Scheduled Caste I Scheduled Tribe
members of the hamlets / villages / cluster of villages would
become members of Samithi automatically. Any two adult
members could represent the household and out of them
one will be a woman.
• The members of VSS shall elect a 15 member Managing
Committee out of which atleast 5 members shall be women.
• The Members of VSS, individually and collectively shall be
responsible to ensure protection of forest against
encroachment, grazing, fires and thefts of forest produce.
• Carry out development of forests in accordance with the
approved Joint Forest Management Plan.
• Make other villagers aware of the importance of forests.
Members of VSS shall have the powerto apprehendthe forest
offenders and hand them over to the authorities concerned
to take action under the provisions of the relevant forest Acts
and Rules. The members are entitled to 25% of the
"Compounding fees" collected from such offenders where
the offence was committed outside their JFM area as an
incentive for the good work done by VSS.
• Along with trees for fuel, fodder and timber, the village
community shall be permittedto plant such fruit trees as would
fit with the overall scheme of afforestation, such as Amla,
tamarind (Imli), Mohua as well as shrubs, fodder legumes

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 253

and grasses which would meet local needs, help soil and
water conservation and enrich the degraded soil/land. Even
local medicinal plants may be grown according to the
requirements and preference to beneficiaries.
• The Research & Development unit of the AP Forest
Department has developed grafts of high yielding varieties
from the Minor Forest Produce (MFP) species. The grafts
are being used to plant in encroached areas for early returns.
Impact of JFM
Due to protection and management of forest area through
JFM the over -all vegetation cover and quality of the forests has
improved as it is evident from the satellite imageries taken before
and after formation of the VSS.:
Many VSS have been able to witness increased availability
of fuel and fodder within two years of taking up the Joint Forest
Management programme in their villages.
The involvement of village community in forest management
has greatly contributedto the reduction in the incldences of smuggling,
fire and grazing.

Returns for VSS Members

The members of the Vana Samrakshana Samithi (VSS)
protecting the forests shall be entitled to the following share from the
forests:
• All Non-timber Forest Produce except those for which GCC
holds the monopoly rights. However the right to collection
shall remain with the VSS members, if they desire. The
members shall be paid the collection charges upon delivery
of the produce as per the rates fixed by the Government.
• VSS members shall be entitled to 100% share in timber and
bamboo harvested from the regenerated degraded forests
as prescribed in the approved Micro Plan subject to the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
254 NEERU-MEERU

following conditions:-
Expenditureincurred on the harvestingshall be deducted
from the total income. However, the harvesting work will
be got done by the members of the VSS only as far as
possible.
Expenditure necessary to sustain the productivity of the
forests like raising plantations, carrying out other
sylviculture operations and soil and moisture
conservation measures as per the micro plan shall be
deducted from the total income. This amount will be
retained in the joint account of Vana Samrakshana
Samithies and the Forest Departmentfor ploughing back
in the forests under the management of the Vana
Samrakshana Samithies. Balance income shall be
equally apportioned among the members of Vana
Samrakshana Samithies.
In 1999 the State Government has issued Orders providing
for 50% of the Net Revenue obtainedfrom sale of Beedi Leaf collected
from the,VSS'area to the VSS - An amount of Rs. 5 to 7 Crores would
thus be available to about 1600 VSS in the Telangana region every
year, reducing their dependency on Government funding for
implementing their microplans.
Unique features of JFM in Andhra Pradesh
• People are given 100% rights over the forest produce, unlike
in many other States where the sharing is limited to 25%.
• Transparency in VSS operations by channelising the funds
through Joint Account system.
• Involvement of Non Governmental Organizations in
strengthening the Vana Samrakshana Samithies through
motivation, extension, training and other support activities.
• Effective inter departmental co-ordination for ensuring
development of VSS villages as "Model Villages".

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh'------
 Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 255

Issues to be monitored by Non Governmental Organizations/

Senior Citizens/PublicRepresentatives/Government Officials
• To ensure that the Vana Samrakshana Samithi members will
not take up any agriculture crops on the forestland in the
name of Joint Forest Management
• To ensure that there is good co-ordination between forest
department, other Government Departments, NGOs and
. villagers in successful implementation of the programme
• To pursue with the District Administration to take up welfare
programmes complementary to JFM work in VSS villages.

Advent of Joint Forest Management in Andhra Pradesh:

The National Forest Policy of 1988 has recognizedthe need
to involve local people in management of forests for ensuring their
effective conservation. The Government of India has issued detailed
guidelines in the year 1990 on the concept of implementing Joint
Forest Management.Accordingly'the Governmentof Andhra Pradesh
has issued formal orders in 1992 tor adopting Joint Forest
Management(JFM) as a strategyfor rehabilitationof degradedforests.
Detailed guidelines were also issued in the year 1993, for taking up
JFM through village level committees called "Vana Samrakshana
Samithies" (VSS).
Like many other State Governments, the AP Forests
Department have also issued comprehensive guidelines for adopting
Joint Forest Management as a strategy for rehabilitation of degraded
forests in the year 1993,through village level committees called"Vana
Samrakshana Samithies" (VSS). Initially, there was lot of skepticism
among the foresters about the worthiness of this strategy as a remedy
for protection problems. This type of approach for managing forests
,was new to the peoplealso, hence lot of effortwas neededto convince
the people also about the assurances of the Government on the
returns promised to the people, if they take up Joint Forest
Management.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
256 NEERU - MEERU

However, with the passage of time, both the local people as

well as the forest officials started seeing what JFM can do for
rejuvenating degraded forests, and the concept gained more
acceptance. The success stories spread from one village to another
village. What was started as a small program has today attained
gigantic proportions? Under the dynamic leadership of the Chief
Minster Sri Nara Chandra 8abu Naidu, the program attained a state
level campaign mode. As the CM himself had said many times, if we
have to see the impact of any strategy we have to think big and
implement it all over the State, instead of dealing with a few hundred
villages here and there.
Keeping in view the tremendous enthusiasm being shown
by the people towards this program and the spectacular improvement
in forest regenerationdue to their efforts, the State Governmentissued
orders on 7-12-96 giving 100% share of timber and bamboo to the
VSS members, enhancing it from 50% share envisaged earlier. This
is a true sign of the confidence imposed in the ability of the people in
managing their forest res0L!rcesefficiently.
Special features of JFM in Andhra Pradesh
• People are given 100% rights over the forest produce, unlike
in many other States where the sha~ing is limited to 25%,
with a built in mechanism for recycling 50% of the revenue
from timber and bamboo for sustainable management of the
forests under their control.
• VSS members are given 50% of the net revenue obtained
from the 8eedi Leaf collected from VSS area.
• VSS members are also given a share of 25% in the
"Compounding Fees" collected from the forest offenders
apprehended by them.
• Transparency in VSS operations by channeling the funds
through Joint Account system, duly supported by the
Managing Committee resolutions, and presenting the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof Andhra

Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 257

quarterly progress reports to the General Body.

• 50% compulsory enrolment for women in the general body
and 3,0% minimum in the Managing Committee.
• Involvement of Non Governmental Organisations in
strengthening the Vana Samrakshana Samithies through
motivation, extension, training and other support activities.
• SCs and STs are automatic members of VSS. This is to
ensure that the poorer sections of the society are not left out.
• Forest areas under cultivation by the poor tribals are being
brought under VSS so that the poor people can get
employmentduring the regenerationphase and subsequently
draw income from the usufruct. This will also stop the
pernicious habit of shifting cultivation.
• Medicinal plants occurring in Forest areas have been
identified which the VSS members can harvest and market.
Planfor regenerationof importantmedicinalplants, both insitu
and exsitu, are being drawn linking with the market.
• Making requisite funds for implementation available by
mobilising resources from Employment Assurance Scheme,
Centrally Sponsored Schemes and the World Bank, so that
work does not suffer for want of money.
• With the initiative taken by Government of Andhra Pradesh,
the Government of India has also issued guidelines to all
states for earmarking funds for forestry sector under EAS
and Jawahar Rojgar Yojana.
• Effective inter departmental co-ordination for ensuring
development of VSS villages as "Model Villages"
Current Status of implementation of JFM in Andhra Pradesh
The current status of implementation of JFM is given
hereunder. The statistics depicted below are obtained from the Joint
Forest Management (JFM) unit as on 22.11.1999.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
258 NEERU-MEERU

• 6575 Vana Samrakshana Samithis have been formed.

• Degraded forest area of 16.52 lakh hectares brought under
JFM.
• 5.28 lakh hectares treated so far by taking regeneration
works, including soil and moisture conservation and gap
planting.
• 13 lakh VSS members, including 6 lakh women are actively
participating in JFM progra~ in remote villages of the State.
• 5.57 lakh STs and SCs are members of VSS having a stake
in regeneration of forests.
• 192 VSS are under the chairmanship of women.
• 24,000 hectares of forestland under encroachment has been
rejuvenated through VSS by motivating the local people.

Future Plan of Action:

• JFM strategy has proved to be an effectiveway of conserving
our forests and utilise them for sustaining livelihood of rural
poor.
• Although there is a greater participation of people in VSS
affairs, it still needs to be strengthened so as to ensure
participationof women and otherweaker sections in decision-
making process.
• Total transparency in functioning of the VSS should be
ensured, thus eliminating the scope for mistrust and resultant
conflicts.
• The entire forest area under JFM is proposed to be treated
by 2008 AD
• Seeing the encouraqinq results that are being obtained by
scientific treatment of forest areas, the're is a need to go for
"Saturation Treatment" of the entire area.
• Greater emphasis should be laid on effective Soil and

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 259

Moisture Conservation works on a watershed basis in VSS

forest areas.
• Such a treatment would mean mobilising additional financial
.resources - some of the older VSS having teak and bamboo
areas may be in a position to finance the treatment out of
their own resources generated from the forests, and the VSS
in Telangana region will get substantial revenue from Beedi
Leaf to implement their microplans, but many other VSS,
which include most of the newly formed ones, need to be
supported by the Government.
Social Forestry
In order to reduce the pressure on the Forestlandsfor forestry
resources, massive efforts are needed in meeting the people
-requirement for firewood, small timber and other forest produce from
the lands outside the designated forest area. Social Forestry has
brought in a new era of meeting the requirement of not only the local
people but also the forest-based industries for their raw material
needs. The Social Forestry stream is being implemented by the
Department through its' field officers.
Organizing Schemes and Funding Resources
Clean and Green Campaign: One of the main activities of the
campaign is to afforest the vacant lands outside the Reserve Forests
to increase the tree cover in Andhra Pradesh. During the year 1999,
29 crore seedlings have been raised and about 20 crores seedlings
have been distributed. For next year (2000 AD) it is proposed to raise
and distribute 50 crores seedlings under the above said campaign.
The various agencies like Rural Department,HorticultureDepartment,
Panchayat Raj Department are involved with Forest Department in
this campaign.
Telugu Ganga Project: Environmental management plan for 6 (six)
years commencing from 1997-98 is being implemented for the three

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

260 NEERU - MEERU

balancing reservoirs that is Kandeluru in Nellore District, Velugudu in

Kurnool District and Sri Pothuluri Veera Brahmendra Swamy Mutt
projects. The main object of the project is sustainability of the project
by treating the catchment areas. The project is funded by Andhra
Pradesh Irrigation Department which is a user agency. The total area
treated is 26,435 hectares of plantations and raising of canal bank
plantations, all along the Telugu Ganga Canal (145 Kms.). The total
cost of the project is Rs. 3,653.489 lakhs
Problems faced by APFD for forest protection
1. Growing population of human beings and cattle: There is
heavy pressure on forest area because of free grazing policy
and increased cattle population which results in trampling,
compaction of soil, reducing soil 'percolation capacity.
2. Wide gap between supply and demand for forest produce
3. Poverty of the people of the interface villages. Land
encroachments into the forest areas
4. Forest fires
5. Illegal mining of semi precious stones
6. Anti-social elements
7. Inadequate forest protection staff
8. Inadequate transport facility for the mobility of forest
protection staff
9. Inadequate communication facilities for protection staff
10. Unwieldy jurisdiction of protection staff
11. Increase in the naxalite (Extremist) activities in forest areas
and law and order problem

The forests have become abode of the extremists who

instigate local people to fell tree growth either for encroachment for
cultivation or for smuggling. Main issues are:

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 261

• Assaulting and threatening the staff not to book cases

• Burning of forest vehicles
• Burning of beedi leave khallas
• Blowing up of forest buildings
• Encourage encroachments and felling of trees
MEASURES TAKEN FOR FOREST PROTECTION BY APFD
Protection of forests from fires:
Forest fires adversely effect the natural reqeneraton and.wil.d
life habitats. So it requires firewatchers, fire-tracing operations, fire
lines, watch towers and fire fighting equipments.
1. Fire tracing of 79,311 KMs of boundary lines total-1,58,622
KMs, Fire lines, forest tracks
2. Construction of watch towers 10 metres height - 500
Numbers.
3. Procurement of fire fighting equipment
4. Eviction of encroachments
5. Engaging Firewatchers during the summer season.
,., <

Amendment to Forest Act:

At present forest offences are bailable. A proposal is

submitted to Government to make the forest offences non-bailable
cognizable to make the Act more deterrent.
More

~ Educating the public

~ Discouraging goats
~ Castration of scrub and unproductive cattle
~ Giving alternate income generating schemes
~ Rotation grazing by closing certain forest areas
~ Imposing heavy penalties for violation

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh--.,..---
262 NEERU - MEERU

Popularization of wood substitutes:

• Construction purpose - Cement, Alluminum, Iron and Plastic

doors, frames and shutters.
•-Eumitu r~gJasticr-lr-on..--allumlniumchairs, tables etc.
• Agricultural implements - Iron ploughs, carts, tillers etc.
• Energy purpose - Bio-gas plants, Liquid Petrol Gas, Solar
cookers, electric cookers, smokeless choolahs (stoves), fuel-
efficient choolahs (stoves)
Communication:
APFD has a communication network across the state to
facilitate communication between forest officials to stop smuggling,
theft of forest produce and other prohibited activities in the forests of
Andhra Pradesh. The existing wireless stations (as on 22.11.199)
);> High Frequency Stations - 22
);> Very High Frequency Stations - 131
);> Mobile sets - 164
);> Hand held sets - 600
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Introduction: Andhra Pradesh is the fifth largestState in geographical
area and also the fifth largest State in forest area in the country. The
state is a distinct geographical entity occupying the east central
plateau of India with 23.20% of its area being under forests. These
forest resources, as elsewhere in India, are under tremendous
pressure due to increasing demands and therefore, suffer from
degradation and denudation, resulting in poor socio-economic
conditions and quality of life. Nearly 70% of the cultivated area is
rain-fed. Erratic rainfall, low water table are limiting factors for
intensive agriculture. The marginal returns and low yields have
induced farmers to expand their agricultural holdings into areas of
very poor potential, aggravating the problem of soil erosion. Most of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 263

the rural people are under-employed and hence the low per capita
income and consequent poverty.

In the early 1990s soon after revision of forest policy during

1988, there was a mejor shift in focus of forest management in India
in general and in Andhra Pradesh in particular. Forest management,
which till then was on an Estate approach, soon was decentralized
and ParticipatoryForest Managementwith active participationof forest
dependent communities, especially the tribals was the new tool of
forest management. It began in the form of Joint Forest Management
(JFM) in 1992 through an order issued by the Government of Andhra
Pradesh. It has grown into a massive movement with nearly 25% of "
State's forests having been brought under JFM by the year 2000.

Joint Forest Management is a concept or a philosophy

wherein all the forest dependent villagers of a given village or its
hamleVsorganize themselves into a cohesive group with an objective
of protecting, regenerating and managing the Forests in the vicinity
of their village or hamleVs. These cohesive groups so organized are
called Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS). Since the forest
dependent villagers, as a matter of fact belong to poor and weaker
sections, fiscal, technical, managerial and moral support is provided
by the Forest Department. The Forest Department also endeavors
to coordinate with other wings of Government and other pressure
groups for a holistic development of these villages and these
communities. The VSS are assured of employment through forest
" "

development activities. The entire harvest is transferred to the VSS.

They are however required to save and replough a certain amount "
earned through harvest and consequent sale of wood produce grown
through their efforts on sustaining the initiatives initiated to improve
the forests. Certain incentives fortheir active role in forest protection
like a share in the fines collected from those found guilty of committing
Forest offences and whom they apprehend are also in place. On its
part the Forest Department after formation of these samithies conduct

-----" Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
264 NEERU - MEERU

massive programs for capacity building, motivation campaigns,

ParticipatoryRuralAppraisal etc. In additionto developmentof forests,
food security and livelihood support occupy important status in this
approach.

Initially,there was lot of skepticism among the foresters about

the effectiveness of this strategy as a solution for protection. This
type of approach for managing forests was new to the people. Hence
lot of effort was needed to convince the people about the assurances
of the Government on the returns promised to the people, if they take
up Joint Forest Management. With the passage of time, both the
local people as well as the forest officials started seeing the visual
impact of JFM in rejuvenating degraded forests, and the concept
gained more acceptance. The success stories spreadfrom one village
to another village. What was started as a small initiative has today
attained gigantic proportions with more and more forest fringe villages
being involved in joint management of forests? From a mere 200
VSS in 1995, today there are more than 6700 VSSs in the state
managing 1.68 million hectares of forest area.
The experience gained and the lessons learnt have promised
an optimistic future. The forests that were fast degradingand depleting
have begun to look up and improve. There has been appreciable
improvement in forest density and quality. The initiative also has had
a direct positive bearing in the economic and social status of the
forest dependent communities. These communities have had the
advantage of increased family income. There has been increase in
agricultural productivity and reduction in migration. These
achievements have given confidence to the State's decision makers
and the result is that this new project will graduate from Joint Forest
Management to Community Forest Management with focus on
alleviating rural poverty through improved forest management and
community development through participation of the stakeholders.
The project seeks to usher in greater synergy between forest

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 265

development and poverty alleviation through a democratized

participatory approach and empowering forest dependent local
communities. As sustainability is the key word, the project balances
the local needs with external and environmental needs. This will be
achieved through increased productivity of the forest resources,
reduced dependence on forests through substitution of demand and
alternate livelihood opportunities, upgradation of living standards and
above all inculcating a sense of ownership and pride among the forest
dependent communities engaged in CFM. It will also address the
likely conflicts between the immediate and long-term needs by
adequately educating the various stakeholders on sustainable
management of forest resources.

'Legal & Institutional Environment and Forest policy: A detailed

assessment of the existing Forest Policy, Le9al and Institutional
Environment in the context of the various initiatives and structural
and process changes needed to achieve the stated objective of the
project have been made. Conformity of the project to the World Bank
Safeguard Policies has been made with special reference to
indigenous people, voluntary resettlement and environment and pest
management.

Tribals (indigenous people) constitute about 30% of the

population targeted. Various issues pertainingto clarification of rights,
issues peculiar to their development, strategies for their holistic
development including natural resource management, livelihood
support, capacity building, empowerment, participation in the
processes of planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation,
mainstreaming and coordinating their development with other
development initiatives of State and the Government of India have
been assessed. A comprehensive tribal development strateqy and a
tribal development plan have been prepared.

The project objective is poverty alleviation through improved

forest management and community participation. The project is

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

266 NEERU - MEERU

unlikely to cause any displacement (partial or full) of the people. The

project promotes economic development (including livelihood) of the
people in the project areas. The property being managed is a common
property resource. However as there is likelihood of individual
livelihoods of some of the forest dependent members being adversely
.affected,strategiesfor warding off such hardshipshave been analyzed
and provided. A framework for entitlement has been developed and
strategies for such resettlements worked out.

A comprehensive and integrated Social and Environmental

Assessment has been made wherein key issues for forestry sector
in general and for the project in particularhave been identified. Likely
impacts with regard to these issues, framework for screening and
measures to mitigate negative impacts and to enhance positive ones
have been suggested. Guidelines for Environmental Management
and Social Development, Institutional arrangements for the
implementation, and M&E are provided.

Though the project does not provide for any direct

investments in procurement or use of pesticides, there is remote
possibility of escalation in pesticide use due to intensive agriculture
and horticulture on the one hand and improvement in livelihood and
incremental income among land owning members of the target group
on the other all anticipated impacts are indirectand marginal. However
suitable strategies for Integrated Pest Management have been
suggested for warding off any such impacts.
A. P. Forest ProduceTransit Rules, 1970 regulating
marketing of VSSforest products.

a) The A.P. Forest Minor Forest Produce (Regulation of Trade) Act,

1971, The A.P. Scheduled Areas Forest Minor Forest Produce
(Regulation of Trade) Regulation, 1979 The A.P. Scheduled Areas
Forest Minor F.orest Produce (Regulation of Trade) Rules, 1990
regulating the trade of certain minor forest produce by creation of a

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

\
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 261
\ state monopoly in such trade. The regulation referred is made unde
the V Schedule of the Constitution of India. The Government hav
appointed Girijan Co-operative Corporation Ltd., Visakhapatnam, aJ
an agent for any 'scheduled areas for purchase of and trade in an~
minor forest produce. I
b) The Panchayat Extension Act to Scheduled Areas (1996). Unde~
the 73,d Constitutional Amendment Act, Panchayat has emerged as
one of the potential stakeholders in forestry management and sharin9
of benefits derived from it. The panchayat is now empowered to
legislate on matters specified in the Eleventh Schedule of th~
Constitution. Items relating to forestry include land improvement, sOil
conservation, watershed development, social forestry, farm forestry,
minor forest produce, fuel and fodder. Juxtaposed to this scenario~
the VSS has been given certain powers and responsibilities fO~
managing forestlands with entitlement to some benefits like NTF
and timber and bamboo. Extension of this Act has wider implication
on forest resources in tribal areas (as specified in the Fifth Schedule).
The Gram Sabha or the Panchayat is endowedwith right to ownershi9
of NTFP. Further, the ownership to NTFP is granted to meet th
bona fide requirements of local community. Endowing panchaya
with the ownership of NTFP might result into competing claims with
local community. In such event, the objective of the Act would conflic
with the demands of local communities. Obviously, this would warran
suitable amendment of either JFM order or Panchayati Raj Act.
Institutional setting: HistoricallyForest Departmenthas had
a strong hierarchical line of command. The 'Estate management'
nature of job and stress on forest protection has infused a policing
approach, which essentially restricted public contact. However
traditional system of forest protection basing on forest beats has •
depended heavily on supportfrom local villagers and fear and respect
for law. As years passed, there was dilution in public perceptions on
conservation of natural resources. This and increased general
lawlessness threw the traditional philosophy of forest protection out

......-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DlnstituteofAndhra
Pradesh-----I
268 NEERU - MEERU

of gear. This, coupled with increased workload, has put the

organizational structure and functionaries in the forest department
under great strain. In this background the initiative of Joint Forest
Management, which is now leading to Community Forest
Management,basing entirely on participationof local forest dependent
communities has provided a ray of hope. In the light of this, an analysis
of strengths and weaknesses of the Forest Department and VSS
has been made. Certain institutionalreforms, restructuring and efforts
for capacity building and empowerment are suggested.

1. Forest policy: The Indian Forest Policy has its genesis in British
colonial rule. Forest management in India began with the policy on
reservation of large extents of forested lands for forest management.
Initially forest management had a limited purpose of exploiting the
timber resources. Subsequently as more and more trainedforesters
started practicing scientific management of forests, it gained
importance. Concepts like normal forests, sustained yield, forest
conservation etc. have evolved through years. A review of evolution
of forest Policy in India and in Andhra Pradesh has led to Community
Forest Management is given below:

a) First Forest Policy, 1894 highlighting intention of the state to

recognize forestry as a land use distinctlydifferentfrom agriculture
and earmarking area for such land use. The major objective was
timber production. Meeting needs of local people was not on the
top of list of priorities. This Policy paved way for legislation and
the process of settlement that followed the reservation of forest
areas. The Policy provided for state ownership and regulation
and had very little for the local communities.

b) The 1952 Policy essentially affirming forestry as an important

land use category, and insisting on one third of the country's land
area remaining under forest, elaborating the tenets on protecting
hill slopes and land from degradation, desertification, and earning

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 269

revenue from forests on sustainable basis. This policy quantified

that atieast 1/3rd of countries land shall be under' forests. Here
again commercial exploitation of the forests received preference
and needs of the local communities received a back seat despite
the fact that the Policy did mention the same.
Various states took a number of initiatives. Some of the issues
relating to Andhra Pradesh are:
i. Abolishing system of forest contracts and encouraging
departmental working,
ii. Establishment of Forest Development Corporations to attract
investments,
iii. Social Forestry, Agro Forestry and Farm Forestry,
iv. Bio diversity conservation and enactment of a special Act for
the purpose,
v. Widening the scope of Forest Laws-to cover specific issues
such as timber in transit, regulation of tree felling in private
lands, regulatingsaw mills and timber depots in private sector
etc.
vi. The Forest ConservationAct 1980 - a landmark in the history
of forestry in India singularly responsible for containing the
diversion of forestland for non-forestry use),
vii. Wasteland development. . The National Waste Land
Development Board was constituted in 1985 attracting the
focus of the country on the urgency of need for afforestation.
c). The 1988 policy: The various initiatives taken were formalized in
this Policy, highlight of which was however recognizing local
villagers' need for meeting their requirement for fuel, fodder, etc.
The other feature is that the Government of India took upon itself
the responsibility of approving management plans and thus
heralded a regulation for reduction in tree felling. Green felling
was discouraged unless its silvicultural necessity was proved.

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270 NEERU - MEERU

d) As a sequel to 1988 Policy, the Government of India issued a

circular for encouraging community participation in afforestation
and management of degraded forests. This paved the way for
the concept of Joint Forest Management. The Government of
Andhra Pradesh adopted this philosophy of forest resources
management through a Government Order during 1992.

e) Developments in the early 1990s witnessed a major shift in

approach to forestry in India. The focus shifted from 'estate
management' to 'joint' or 'community management'. The
Government of Andhra Pradesh came out with its state forest
policy during 1993 focusing on participatory management of
forests.

Focal theme of Forest Sector Vision is sustainable

management of forest resources focusing on the protection and
regeneration of forests and forestland. At the end of the decade, the
role of foresters at least in respect to.the participatory management
of forests is likely to change. The forester is more likely to be a
facilitator,a social mobiliserand an extensionworker. Improvedforests
protection and management systems in place, reduced dependence
on forests, self sufficiency of communities managing forests, greater
transparency are the intended end results.
Past Experience; lessons learnt - way for future
Joint Forest Management has been accepted as the central
theme for all the forestry activities.State is providingbudgetarysupport
from all the possible sources. Even though the World Bank aided AP
Forestry Project gave a fillip to JFM subsequently the VSS were
supported from the funds by the district administration. The number
of VSSs supported through the district funds was more than the
number supported under APFP. Subsequently the state took a policy
decision to support VSS activities under RIDF scheme of NABARD.
Among other aspects of JFM, the following need a careful look:

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O·lnstitute ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 271

• Joint Account System and transparency

• Involvement of NGOs
• Women Community Volunteers as instruments to address
Gender issues

Following are the independent observationsof the

assessmentteam:

• Forestry and environment improvementcan directly influence

the poverty problem to a great extent. Chall~nge is how "to
reach the unreached" or "the poorest of the poor" through
their active participation in planning, implementation and
monitoring.
• Rapport with the stakeholders by the Forest Department
builds up the trust relationship. A viable micro plan, its
implementation and concurrent monitoring by the
stakeholders after understanding the situation and analyzing
various factors then becomes the reality.
• Establishing and maintaining backward and forward linkages
as well as integrating gender concerns for overall
development of rural and tribal families can be better done in
a group rather than an individual.
• With the Increasedand active lnvolvernentot local population,
JFM has and can successfully conserve and improve the
quality of the existing forests and plantations, as the forest
area was and is under different stages of degradation. A
portion of these areas can also be re-clothed.effectlvely by
taking up afforestation with commercially viable species by
VSS. This would achieve three main objectives namely,
improving the environment, creating employment and
reaching the unreached population. -
• Combinedtrainings/orientations/re-orientations/deliberations/
field exposures/ inter-actionsworkshops are found to be quite

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
272 NEERU - MEERU

effective tools for advocacy, capacity building, social

mobilization, improving performance and skills of VSS
members, NGOs and functionaries or facilitators.
• Integration of Forestry Micro-plan with Village Development
Plan, Trial Development Plan and Resettlement Plan for
rehabilitation of those who are likely to be adversely affected,
would go a long way in effective and overall development of '
the village and the forests.
• Coverage, continuity and cost effectiveness of operations
by VSSs for their own sustainability as well as for achieving
the goals require top attention and consideration by the State
and/ or district administration.
• Empowerment of women and addressing gender issues are
very crucial for the success of the program.
• Environmental education, social mobilization, capacity
building, awareness creation among VSS members as well
as villagers along with frontline facilitators (functionaries) has
significantly contributed to the whole process. It should be
further strengthened or reinforced to keep up the tempo built,
to sustain it and coordinate various process indicators and
key performance indicators.
• Ensuring adequate preparedness in terms of policy,
institutional and technological aspects before project
expansion is crucial and vital.
Thrust areas for the successful implementation in future are:
•. Sustainability
• Rehabilitation of degraded forests
• Improving rural economy
• Strengthening poverty alleviation initiatives
• Increased education and literacy
• Increasing aqrlcultural productivity

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 273

• Improving communication and other infrastructures

• Land development on watershed basis including non-forest
land
• Upgrading the skills of the rural artisans
• Dovetailing other rural and tribal development programs
• Marketing and processing of NTFPs
• Human Resource Development
• Coordination with other agencies
• Associating Non-Government Organizations.

Forest Management:The activities here are intended to improve

forest managementand improvereturns to the community asset base..
Following is a brief account of activities contemplated:

(a). Improvement of forests within and outside the designated

forests through community management: A series of
treatment practices have been suggested for improvement of
forests. Rejuvenation of degraded Teak, Miscellaneous non teak
hardwoods, bamboos and Red sanders forests coupled with
conservation and cultivationof species valued for their non timber
and medicinal value and fodder species are planned. The
technique of management of natural regeneration involves
seedling coppicing of viable rootstock in the. forests under
treatment by cutting back flush to the ground and coppicing the
high stumps and repeatedly clipping the resultant coppice shoots
retaining the most promising ones. Coupled with this, repeated
cutting back of rank growth and thorny bushes encourages the
establishment and healthy growth of the coppice shoots that are
retained. Fire and grazing management, and soil and moisture
conservation works are the essential subsidiary sylviculture
operations. Afforestation of village common lands and farmlands
are the other activities that will be taken up under the project in
areas outside the designated forests. A total of 315,800 ha is

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

274 NEERU - MEERU

planned to be covered with such treatments under the project.

In addition, maintenance and tending of a further extent of 70,000
ha of forest for which treatments were initiated prior to the project
are also planned.

(b) Forest Inventory ~nd Management Planning: A full-scale

inventory of all production forests is' planned during the fourth
year of the project. The inventory design will consider the
dynamics of the degraded forest being treated through VSSs
and the need to establish reliable estimates of NTFPs, small
timber and the regeneration potential. Identification and design
of permanent sample plots for periodic measurement of forest
growth and yield potential will be included.

(c) Research and Extension: To facilitate two-way communication

between researchers and VSS members, a massive research
and extension activities are planned. Broad areas are: Seed
technology, Tree improvement and Forest management.

(d) Forest Management Information System: Computerizationand

development of an integratedcomputer-based MIS Packagewith
due integrationwith spatial database is planned. Such a package
will provide for assessment and analysis of performance at
various levels and will link investments and inputs to productivity,
production and outputs. Development of hi-tech connectivity for
ensuring quick dissemination of data in the form of a web site
and wide area network are planned.

C. Community Development: This component is to assist the VSS

in planning and developing community infrastructure and
enhancing opportunities for income generation and skill
development among the marginalizedgroups. Support to engage
NGOs and community women volunteers are planned. A
comprehensive and focused tribal development plan,
resettlement plan to mitigate adverse social impacts due to the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 275

project implementation,if any and an environmentalmanagement

plan are included. The following are the activities:

(a) Micro planning: A massive benchmarking and micro planning

exercise through PRA will precede all investments in the VSS. A
format in this respect is given in this report.
(b) Community infrastructure development: Development of
critical physical and social infrastructure would be essential to
inculcate, foster a sense of cohesion and togetherness and raise
the motivationlevel of the VSS. This also ensuresa proper rapport
between the Forest Department and the VSS to engage the
community on issues related to forest management. These
investments would only complement similar efforts of other
government agencies in the village.
(c) Income Generation Activities: This is aimed at reducing
poverty among the landless and forest dependent families in the
fringe villages by improving the skill base and providing avenues
for alternative income generation. During the process of micro-
plan preparation, the VSS would identify the most eligible
marginalized individuals or households for income generation
activities. The activities will be group based and the range of
options will include NTFP processing as well as other non-farm
activities.
(d) Fodder development. Development of silvipastures in and
outside the designated forests and augmenting fodder resources
will receive adequate attention. Fodder and livestock are
<, inseparably linked. Appropriate mechanisms for coordination
between Forest and Animal Husbandry Department at district,
mandai and VSS levels are needed to ensure that fodder and
pasture developmentactivities to reduce pressureof grazing over
the forestlands.

Study objectives and methodology: The overall objective of the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh------'-
276 NEERU-MEERU

study is to examine social and environmental issues in the forestry

sector in Andhra Pradesh and its implications on the project design
and implementation including development of a comprehensive and
effective environmental management and social development plan
to enhance environmental and social objectives for mitigating the
potential adverse impacts of the proposed project. The specific
objectives are:
a) Social aspects:
• To identify vartous socio-economic factors influencing the
living conditions of the forest dependent poor communities
and examine its relation with the forest development
• To identifyall stakeholdersand their roles and responsibilities.
• To assess socio economic status of primary stakeholders
and evolve strategies to deal with different groups.
• To establish transparency and accountability norms and
develop indicators for regular monitoring.
• To establish a two way communication for disseminating
information to the interest groups and receiving feed back
for maximizing benefit.
• To identify the likely conflicts that may arise during
implementation and suggest conflict resolution measures.
• To assess the present status of women and suggest
measures to enhance their involvement.
'. To study the land use pattern, tenure and customary rights
of private and common properties; examine the existing legal
aspects affecting such rights and suggest ways to address
these issues including developing an entitlement framework,
• To suggest ways for increasing the capacity of existing
institutions for making the partlcipatory process focal point
of Project or nature of alternative institutions for establishing
the process,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 277

• To assess the socio-economic implications of the practice of

Podu cultivation vis-a-vis JFM and suggest ways for better
land use and design measures to mitigate any adverse
impact.
To assess the impact of JFM on other stakeholders including
. head loaders, cultivators, grazers and other forest dependent people.

SUCCESS STORIES
AN EXPERIENCE OF SUCCESS IN BEHRUNGUDA VSS
(Vana Samrakshana Samithi)
Location & Background:
Behrunguda village is located in Dandepally Mandai of
Adilabad District in the State of Andhra Pradesh. All the inhabitants
are tribals with 101 House holds spread over 5 gudems (Hamlets).
This is typical tribal village having 62 families of Gonds and 39 of
Naikpods.
From the forest protection point of view the village is
strategically located. Behrunguda is bounded by the hill range of rally
forest block on North, East and West. On South there are all
agricultural plain wet lands and well irrigated due to Kadam canal
water. The main occupation of the villagers is dry land agriculture. As
canal water doesn't reach the fields of Behrunguda, during lean
season most of the people used to go out of the village to work as
laborers in the adjoining town ship and cities. As the village is
strategically located on the Tri-junction point, forest produce is
smuggledfrom Bellampally,Mancherialand Jannaramforest divisions,
bringing timber by head loads and cart loads from interior forests;
sold at Dandepally, Luxettipet and across Godavari in Karimnagar
district, used to pass through Behrunguda. The villagers of
Behrunguda lost their surrounding forests of teak and other Non-
timber Forest Produce and due to repeated hacking, the adjoining

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
278 NEERU-MEERU

forests up to the foothills become inferior quality scrub with lot of

weed growth.of Mahaveera grass.
Formation of Behrunguda VSS - A Humble beginning:
Any efforts to protect the valuable forest by the forest
department could not result in stopping the smuggling. In the year
1990 the village heads of Behrunguda could see that there is no
timber no firewood no grass for cattle and their lively hood is
threatened. The villagers one day resolved to protect the forests at
any cost and take whatever steps were needed to rejuvenate the
natural resource around them. This was the humble beginning of a
genuinely community initiated forest protection committee official
sanction was yet to come. 1993 was another landmark for
Behrunguda. Timber smugglers from the neighboring villages
Dandepally, Venkatapur, Maderipeta, Muthyampet had not taken
kindly to the formation of a committee to protect the forest and had
lodged war against the Behrunguda inhabitants. In one battie, the
thieves came armed with chilli powder and the bone of a camel.
However the local residents lay in wait and thrashed the intruders,
peace returned to the forest of Behrunguda. However one person
died in the skirmish. The captured trophy (a mid riff bone of a camel
has become a symbol of past struggle and is now displayed at
important village meetings for good omen. Another landmark was
the official recognitiongiven to the VSS Behrungudavillage committee
by the State Government forest department. The General Body
meeting was conducted on May 18th 1993 and the villagers elected a
female President Smt.Gourubai and with 50% reservation to Women
out of 12 members elected 7 were male with 5 female members.
Joint Account was opened on 6-5-94 in Sri Saraswathi Grameena
Bank, Dandepally.Bank Account No. 2838. The Governmentformally
recognized the village forest protection committee VSS (Vana
Samrakshana Samithi) .On May 23rd 1_993Behrunguda became the
first VSS in the State of Andhra Pradesh to gain official recognition.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhraPradesh-·
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 279

Active participation in forest protection-Since formation of

VSS the members have been actively participating in regeneration
works in the degraded forests. The villagers have taken upon
themselves the task of protecting the forest. They have made
arrangement to patrol the forest and prevent smuggling of forests
produce with co-operation of VSS members, and the departmental
succeeded in booking 36 cases involvingtimber worth Rs.70,676 and
collected Compounding Fee of Rs. 54,928 and the timber valued
Rs./- 1,48,391 was sized and booked under unknown culprits. Due
to regular vigilance by the VSS members smuggling of forest produce
has completely stopped in the forest adjoining Behrunguda VSS
During 1993 a notorious smuggler Sri Rama Swami of
Rajampet of Luxettipet Mandai attacked the Vana Samrakshana
Samithi patrollinggroup with camel bone.The determinedgroup could
not withdraw from the battle and won the first war against notorious
smugglers by seizing two carts of teak and captured the trophy a
huge bone of camel. Immediately the forest department with staff
visited Behrunguda and booked the forest offence case against the
notorious smuggler Sri Rama Swami, Rajampet and his associate
Banda Suri and collected fine of RS.8000/-from the accused.
APFO's contribution - This timely assistance of the Forest
Department brought villagers and forest department much closer
relation and proved way for effective joint venture in protection and
management of the forest under Behrunguda VSS.
Due to liaison of the forest department with the other development
department
• One check dam was constructed for irrigating to their dry
lands which was pending since long time.
• One bore well was sanctioned
• A road was provided connecting Behrunguda to Tanimadgu
under Janmabhoomi programme.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
280 NEERU-MEERU

Since the villages were stopping the head loaders/carts

coming from adjoining villages, smugglers resorted to new routes
through adjoining villages Rajuguda,Dammannapet,KoyaRoshiguda,
Kancharbai, Karnapet subsequently these villages were covered by
VSS with the formation of a network of VSS all the smuggling routes
have been blocked and protection has improved in almost the entire
hill slope surrounding these villages.
Village Development Activity!-
It has been the experience-that to get good co-operation form
the people their long felt needs are requiredto fulfilled. In this direction
with the co-ordination of the district the followingvillage developmental
activities were taken up in Behrunguda VSS.
The net revenue realized by the VSS is Rs.3,59,500 As per
the Government Order of JFM, 50% of this will go to the VSS member
for utilizing as they want and 50% will be used to improve the forest
by giving wage employment. Income to this extent can be obtained
on a sustained basis with further increase due to improvement of
forests. The 50% income that is ploughed back to the forest is a
major gain that will ensure continued improvement of the forests.
For those who have been working of relentlessly in managing
the forests for the people, it is matter of great satisfaction. It is hoped
that the news of this successful experience will spread far and wide
giving a new sense of belonging to the forests that was kept away
from the people for long.
The incidents that improved the relation between the people
and the Forest Department need special mention as they have
profound influence in the success of Joint Forest Management
Programme.
In other VSSalso there is a tremendous success. A gist of
which is shown below:
• VSS members at Chengicherla in Rangareddy District -got a

-----Or.M:C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 281

revenue of Rs. 2.26 lakhs from sale of grass in the p~st 6

years. From the same area earlier the Government used to
realize hardly Rs.SOOOper annum.
• Due to generation of adequate employment in the village itself,
the migration of villagers to urban areas has reduced by more
than SO% in many VSS and totally stopped in some VSS.
• The natural regeneration in forests has improved appreciably
- in Kondapur VSS in the drier region of Nalgonda district, the
VSS members were proud to record the revival of 26 new
species in their forest due to effective protection.
• In Venkatapuram VSS of Chittoor district, Neem regeneration
has improved so much that what was once a barren hill now
looks like a neem forest.
• Harvesting of teak poles in 8ehrunguda VSS of Adilabad district
has fetched the VSS members an amount of RS.3.60 lakhs
• In above VSS area, prior to the formation of VSS, the forest
was highly degraded with hardly any pole crop.
• T-he production of bamboo has improved under JFM. In
Sonapur VSS of Adilabad district, the members have already
realised about RS.60,OOOfrom sale of bamboo.
• Andhra Pradesh can be proud of the fact that as much as 24000
hectares of forest land which was under cultivation could be
reclaimed through the efforts of VSS members.
• Today the podu areas in Visakhapatnam and Adilabad districts
are affording more income to the people under forestry than
when they were under rainfed agriculture.
.. Members of 8elgaon and Ooderna VSS of Nirmal were
instrumental in busting one inter-state timber smuggling racket
operating from Maharashtra. They have helped in booking 5
cases with the value of seizures being around Rs. 5 lakhs.
• The production of Non Timber Forest Produce has gone up in

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
282 NEERU - MEERU

VSS areas resulting in the villagers getting more income fron I

collection of soaonut, seethaphal etc.
• In Sircilla Range of Karimnagar district, members of 9 VSS
could extract seethaphal worth Rs.2.67 lakhs during the year
1999 from the VSS area.
• Members of two VSS in Chittoor district Gopalakrishnapuram
and Peradam, earned about RS.1.5Iakhsfrom sale of tamarind
grafts in the VSS area.

Impact Assessment Of SMC And Tribal Development Works

Nizamabad Circle - A Case Study
Nizamabad Circle is comprising of Nizamabad & Medak
district, having 2,66,816 Ha. of Reserved Forests, out of which about
72%was identified as degraded. Till recent past forest growth was
damaged in direct proportion of its value.
In the Circle so far 452 VSS & EDC have been formed by
bringing an area of 1,32,753 Ha. under their protection umbrella. So
far an area of 43,225 Ha. has been treated under Participatory Forest
Rehabilitation method ( TP-1) with major emphasis on Soil and
Moisture Conservation on watershed basis. The VSS members have
taken interest in protecting the forest area from fire and ·practicing
differed grazing in most of the VSS.
This has lead to regeneration of degraded forest area and
re-emergence of species, which were reduced to rudiments in the
past and dormant.
The SMC works taken up are low cost structure viz.
Percolation tank / Check dams, cost is ranging from Rs. 32,000 to
Rs. 1.5 Lakhs.
The District Collector, Nizamabad and Watershed team,
visited few structures and impressedwith cost effectivenessand utility
has sanctioned Rs. 40 lakhs for taking up such structures in the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 283

villages for water mitigation.

The SMC works taken up helped in ground water recharge
as well as re-emergence of grasses. In the Circle about 320
percolation tanks and Check dams have been constructed in the VSS
areas.
Increased water availability has helped in bringing more dry
area under irrigation and increased cropping intensity, ultimately more
yield and income per Ha.
Direct involvement of the people in protection process has
also resulted in increased tree density in the area.
In this paper attempt has been made to analyze the impact
of these SMC works and for this purpose study is being continued in
30 VSS. This impact analysis is limited to the direct beneficiaries of
the works, who or whose land is very near to these structures. Six
VSS have been taken for detailed discussion.

Case Study - Oddepally VSS

This is a case study of successful Natural Regeneration of

Forests Resource & Management practices through VSS.
Oddepally is a small village in Nizamsagar Mandai of
Nizamabad District having adjoining Reserve Forest area having pole
crop forests till 1988 and there onwards people have even started
uprooting the remnants of root and stumps portion of trees to meet
their daily need of fuel after finishing the pole crop. As a result area
became highly degraded and denuded with exposed rocks and the
growth turned to scrub not more than 1 meter. This was repeatedly
and indiscriminately hacked for fuel wood. Average rainfall is about
900 mm.
This has given a realization of limited resource left over and
the people started searching for remedy. The new concept i.e. "Joint
Forest Management" was discussed and accepted by the villagers &
"Van a Samrakshana Samithi" was formed in the village on 4-11-1993

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
284 NEERU - MEERU

under chairmanship of Sri D. Ramulu.

Management Micro Plan was prepared in confirmity with the Forest
Conservation Acts and highlighting specific local needs and
community development priorities for percolation tank, irrigation bore
wells, loan for housing to weaker section of the society, milch cattle
for self-employment and lift irrigation.

Achievements
SI. Dept.Share VSS's
No Nature of Works Phy
Rs. Share
1 Augmentationof irrigation
(drilling of bore wells,
ixing of submersible
pump and pipes in
Pvt. Land) 5 Nos 1,37,900 45,965
2 Construction of
Percolation I
tank (in RF) 7 Nos 3,23,511 0
3. Gully plugging 1045 cmt 98,340 0
4 Contour trenching 26,892 Rmt 78,024 0
5 Hand pump for
drinking water 3 Nos. 43,520 0
6 Smokeless Chullahs
& Biogas 175&1 Nos 7,300 0
7 Fuel wood supplied
to villagers 600 tonnes 0 0
8 Motivated other
villages to form VSS 30 Nos 0 0
9 Families involved 452 0 0

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D InstituteofAndhraPradesh=
----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 285

10 Total area treated 311 HA. 2,42,541

11 Other Viz, Community

hall, fruit plants etc. 60,594 30%

Total 9,91,670

Degraded forests are of 485 Ha. was allotted for treatment &
Works were started during 1995-96, upto September 1999 an area
of 311 Ha has been treated by taking up Coppicing and Singling
(Natural Regeneration) witj1 main emphasis on Soil & Moisture
Conservationworks viz. Contour trenching,gully plugging,percolation
tanks (7) have been constructed on watershed basis which are
profusely recharging the ground water and rehabilitating micro
environment.
The first percolation tank was constructed during December
1996. Efforts have been made to trap the rainwater where it falls.
Tribal Development works
Downside to these percolation tanks (PT), 15 families were
identified, having their agricultural lands adjacent to each other and
for a group of 3 families one common point was selected, where bore
well was drilled and submersible motor along with pipe line etc., fixed.
Thus, for the group 5 bore wells and 5 submersible motors were
fixed during March 1997.
Forest Department has borne the cost of these bore wells to
the extent of 70%. Each family has shared about four thousand
rupees. Under these bore wells 9 Ha. area, which was earlier rain-
fed, for the first time has been brought under irrigation during 1997-
98 for raising of paddy and ground nut.
The annual increase in the income of each family is about
Rs. 12,000 and this was possible due to augmentation of irrigation,
which has resulted in raising of two crop of paddy.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 286
NEERU - MEERU

The impact analysis of the SMC works in helping ground

water recharge and ultimately bringing more dry and private land
cultivation,is being taken up separatelyfor the 6 P.T.and gully plugging
and the 7thPercolation tank which is directly helping in irrigating the
private land.
In the vicinity of the 6 percolation tanks before construction,
there were only 10 bore wells and 2 open wells, which were used for
irrigation and cropping pattern was usually one crop of paddy and 2nd
crop of maize.
The cropping area was about 200 Ha. And paddy yield
estimated was 20 to 25 quintals/Ha. The total villagers were reluctant
to go for new bore wells in the area as water yield was not assured.
After two years of construction of these check dams people
have seen the improvement in ground water recharge and they have
ventured to go for more bore wells adjoining to the forest area and
were happy to see good yield in all the new bore wells drilled.
As on September 1999 in the adjoining area 39 more bore
wells have been drilled by bringing additional area of 70 Ha. under
irrigation. Now about 270 Ha. is under cultivation that too, two crops
of paddy is common from the same agricultural field which was giving
one paddy crop or no crop at all.
Thus now per ha. yield is reported about 50 quintals worth
Rs. 25,OOO/Ha.
The 7thP.T. has been constructed at a place where old kunta
got damaged, and since then, agricultural land in the adjoining area
was not irrigated and only one rain fed crop was raised.
A meeting of the VSS members with the Divisional Forest
Officer has seen approval for construction of this new P.T.
The 31 familieswhose land is adjoiningto this P.T. have taken
up cultivation of paddy in about 8 Ha. It is expected they will get

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 287

about Rs. 3.87 lakh worth benefit in the first year itself by raising two
crop of paddy against earlier of Rs. 1.76 lakhs.

Pocharam(S) VSS
This is one of the VSS which is located about 120 Kms. from
the District HO, main inhabitants are STs. The common agricultural
practice was raising of rain fed crop and certain areas were left follow
almost permanently for want of lack of irrigation potential. The village
area is an ideal water shed zone but till formation of the VSS no
check dam or gully plugging structures were taken up.
During 1998-99 under Tribal Development Plan 7 bore wells
were drilled and submersible motors were fixed with 70% contribution
from the Forest Department. 30% contribution was made by the
people beside taking up land levelling and mounding. Under these
bore wells 18 Ha. land of 21 families were brought.
A visit on 21.10.99 and a meeting with the VSS members
revealed that this land is now under paddy a Sunflower crop and few
of the beneficiaries have put their land for the first time under plough.
The members are expressing their happiness with the expected
income.
Sri Laxman could get Rs. 2,000 from his 0.1 Ha. of land by
raising Onion.

Dharmaram VSS
Sri Vithal whose land is abutting the check dam construction
and area treated in Dharmaram VSS has started raising Sugar cane,
paddy due to increase ground water instead of raising one crop of
maize and paddy. He is requesting for another check dam in the
vicinity which will further help in increasing the crop production and
profit.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 288
NEERU - MEERU

Janakampally VSS

It is a small village abutting the forest area, before formation

of VSS during 1996, villagers were frequenting with sale of fuel wood
in the local market about 7 Km. away. These people were helped in
augmenting their irrigation source and development of land by drilling
of bore wells and fixing of submersible pumps 3 Nos. for better
agriculture. This has created better income. Creation of awareness
and motivation has brought remarkable change in their understanding
for protection of forests. As a result the entire patch of forest under
the VSS is fully protected. The "People" who were once felling the
forests are today saving the growth from outsiders and rationalising
its use in the village by adopting Fuel saving devises.
Manikbander VSS

It is a small hamlet, main inhabitants are STs. Under Tribal

Development Plan an Electric Transformer was supplied with 50%
contribution from the members. This is yielding un-interrupted power
supply to the submersible motors 18 existing in the area as a result
two crop in the VSS. As a result an area of 564 Ha. of degraded
'forest has been fully reclothed. New species viz. Buchnania lanzan,
Madhuca latifolia are re-emerging in abundance. Panthers became
a part of the eco-system because of good protection and creation of
check dams.

Ramannapet - vss
The forest area which was dev.oidof hardly any tree cover,
except with root stock of Teak, Buchnania, Lagerstromia that too in
bushy form has been regenerated due to good protection given by
the VSS members and treatment practices coupled with SMC works
(3 check dams and gully plugging). The VSS members have collected
Buchnania seeds worth Rs. 2 lakhs during 1998-99 for itself self-
consumption. Its yield is expected to grow further.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 I
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 289

The Forest area which was once denuded is now fully clothed
with singled out growth of Chenangi, Teak, tirman, Somi and crop
_. height is about 4 meter and top height 9 meters. Some species viz.
Basla latifolia, Bucnania lanjan, Pheronia elephantum and Aegle
marmelos etc. are again re-emerging. The growing stock has put in
the growth of about 11 cum per Ha.lyear. Movement of Panther is
recently reported beside Deer and Peacock have inhabited this area.
.This is leading to put more confidence on participatory
approach of the people under Joint Forest Management and in turn
better rehabilitation and protection of degraded Forest and
development of the people.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Landunder Afterconstru- '"
<D
No. of No. of o
cultivation ctionof P.T.
SI. Name of bore bore
before landunder Remarks
No VSS wells wells
percolation cultivation
before before
tankin Ha. inHa.
1 Vallore 21 84 0 10 Filling of Village tank has helped in
bringing more area and raising of two
crop of paddy.
2 Oddepally 200 270 10 49 Additional area as well as intensity of
crop increased to two crops of paddy.
3 Siddapur tanda 150 200 20 38 Do
4
5
8andepally tanda 125
Shivampet 1.5
165 20 40 Do .
2.5 2 2 Increased output
6 Ibrahimabad 8.5 11 10 10 Do
7 Pocharam 3.0 21 0 7 About 10 ha. has been brought for
(S) 21 families the first time under plough.
8 Dharmaram 3.0 3 2 2 Increase in water yield and change in
cropping pattern to sugar cane and z
m
m
paddy from paddy and maize. ;:0
9 Jankampally 9 Dry crop 9 Wet crop 0 3 Increased crop intensity.
.
c
s::
rn
m
(Source:- www.ap.nic.in/apforest) ;:0
c
 Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 291

Rejuvenating India's Decimated Forests Through Joint

Action: Lessonsfrom Andhra Pradesh 1

Across Andhra Pradesh, a large state on the eastern coast

of India, a dramatic change is afoot. The state government has
introduced on a massive scale a new approach to protecting forest
resources known as joint forest management. Under this approach,
local people living on the fringes of forests are forming Vana
Samrakshna Samithi (VSS) village organizations established to
protectforests and arejoining forces with the state forestry department
to work in partnership for a common cause: rejuvenating Andhra
Pradesh's degraded forests. Together they now share the
responsibilities and benefits .of forest restoration, protection, and
management.The initialgainsfrom this people-centeredmanagement
strategy are impressive, and a huge effort is under way to support
and sustain the change. The Forestry Department, once regarded
as a rule-bound and hostile bureaucratic police force, is now often
heralded by rural people as a friendly promoter of their development.
A dramatic change indeed, in perception and attitudes, brought about
within the past four years.

Bringing Back the Forest

. "My village is my country,my backyardis my forest, my wealth

is my trees, my people, and I will protect them," thunders a proud Mr.
Ramu, chairman of the Thanimadugu VSS, to any visitor. And why
not? He and his fellow villagers working together with the Forestry
Department have saved 500 hectares of forestland adjoining the
village that was virtually destroyed by illicit felling and transformed it
into a luxuriant and productive forest. Their backyard, the forest, now
provides a livelihood to all 70 households of this fringe village of the
Gond people an ancient and distinct tribe of Andhra Pradesh.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
292 NEERU - MEERU

Less than a decade ago, ruthless and unchecked illicit cutting

of trees had turned this forest into a parched landscape of dying
stumps and scorched bushes. At this time, the villagers; who stood
as sad Witnessesof this plunder, found that their very existence was
under threat: drinking water sources were fast drying up, and there
was no bamboo or grass available to repair their huts and renew the
thatched roofs. Despite the vast forest in their backyard, they had to
purchase roofing materials elsewhere. They appealed to various
agencies to protect the forest and their interests, but to no avail.
Thus, when the Andhra Pradesh Forestry Project was
launched, introducing joint forest management, villagers of
Thanimadugu readily came forward to.form a VSS, elected a woman
as first chairperson, and started protectingand rehabilitatingthe forest.
The Forestry Department provided the technical support,
assisted in the formation of the group, and helped plan for the
restoration of the forest and for its protection. Teak tree stumps were
cut back to ground level, and the regenerating shoots were carefully
managed; bamboo was planted; measures to improve soil and
moisture conservation were introduced; and the tender new growth
was protected from encroachers by the villagers through group action.
As a result, the backyard is now green and the VSS has a bank
balance equivalentto US$ 8,000from the incomeearned from forestry
activities and the produce of natural regeneration. This money will be
used to maintain the forest in the future and to contribute to village
development needs identified as priorities by the VSS. Such success
stories abound throughout Andhra Pradesh.

The Joint Forest Management Approach Takes Off

At present there are more than 5,000 VSS busy rejuvenating
more than 1.2 million hectares of degraded forests in the state. By
the year 2000, the Forestry Department hopes to foster about 7,000

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 293

vss to help manage 1.7 million hectares of forest. A World Bank-

assisted forestry project with a large [oint forest management
component is helping to make this happen. The state government,
spurred by the enthusiasm of the Chief Minister, has been proactive:
it quickly perceived the potential, picked up the joint forest
management strategy, and extended it throughout the state with its
own funds. There are now two streams of thejoint forest management
program in Andhra Pradesh: one funded with credit from the World
Bank's concessionary lending arm, the International Development
Association (IDA), and another with other state resources. Both have
common aims and approaches.

Government PoliciesPromote Participatory Forestryin India

Andhra Pradesh is not alone in these efforts:throughout India,

state governments are experimenting with ways of involving people
in the restoration and management of public,forestlands. The World
Bank has been an active partner in supporting the efforts of six states
to this end. The situation of India's forests is critical. The average
forest area per capita is 0.07 hectares, one of the lowest proportions
in the world, and the productivity of these remaining forests is well
below capacity. Degradation of forest resources resulting from more
than a century of overexploitation, increasing human and livestock
pressures, and inadequate conservation has been of great concern
to the nation and has especially taxed the poorest of the poor, who
have long been the most reliant on these natural assets.
In 1988 the Government of India introduced a new forest
policy that called for substantive and significant change in the
management of the sector. This policy radically altered the aims of
forest management, shifting it from a commercial and industrial focus
to one that stresses restoring environmental forest functions and
meeting the basic needs of people living in, or near, forests. The

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstituteof Andhra

Pradesh-----
294 NEERU-MEERU

policy clearly directs that forests be managed first as an ecological

necessity, second as a source of goods for local populations, and
only third as a source of wood for industries and other non-local
consumers. It envisages that the bulk of industrial wood demand will
be met by farmers and private investors. As S. D. Mukerji, head of
the Andhra Pradesh Forestry Department, notes, "The policy marked
a new era where, for the first time, the rights of people living in and
around the forest were recognized as an essential requirement in the
governance of forests, where for the first time they were considered
partners of the Forestry Department, and where the demand of the
people was recognized as the first charge on the forest produce."
In support of this new policy, in 1990 the Government of India
directed the states to develop a particlpatory approach in their efforts
to restore the nation's degraded forests. By 1998, the vast majority
of the states had introduced joint forest management programs and
policies. These programs build from the varied and considerable
traditions of people managing their own forests, as well as from the
pioneering efforts of foresters in West Bengal.
Forest Decline in Andhra Pradesh

As in other parts of India, forests in Andhra Pradesh were

under serious threat from timber smuggling, overexploitation by
industry, deteriorating law enforcement, ravaging fires, uncontrolled
grazing, agricultural encroachment, and unmanaged exploitation for
firewood and other basic needs. The state owns and manages 6.4
million hectares of forest (effectively 23 percent of its area), but 45
percent of this state-owned forestland is degraded. Past management
strategies had focused on timber production, and government-
enforced protection failed to reverse the trend. Even social forestry
programs introduced in the 1980s, to promote fuel wood plantations
on communal lands and tree growing on farms, had not yielded

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 295

significant results because local people were not involved and the
programs focused on lands outside. state management control. To
address the continuing crisis, the government approached the World
Bank for assistance in 1992.

The Andhra Pradesh Forestry Project

The Andhra Pradesh Forestry Project builds on the
experiences of the social forestry era of the previous decade. In
particular, the decision to use joint forest management techniques in
its project design was heavily influencedby lessons from the foresters
in West Bengal, who had developed th~ approach in the 1970s and
success fully introduced it with support from IDA under the West
Bengal Forest Project during the 1980s and early 1990s. To convince
the government leadership of the potential and importance of this
new approach, the World Bank organized study tours of West Bengal
as part of project preparation. The project's sector approach, which
firmly rooted joint forest management within the context of wider
institutional reforms, was consistent with the findings of the India
Forest Sector Review, the World Bank's forest policy and strategy for
lending in the region, and above all with India's new forest policy.
The Andhra Pradesh Forestry Project is a Six-year program
that began in February 1994. Its goals are to increase the productivity
and quality of forests, J:*)tect the environment, alleviate poverty, and
strengthen and streamline the pollcles of the forestry sector to be
consistent with these objectives. To achieve them, the project will:
• Introduce people's participation in the protection and
management of publi~ degraded forests uoint forest
management)
• Institute better practices and new technologies to increase
forest productivity
• Promote private sector participation in forestry sector
-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh---..---
296 NEERU - MEERU

development
• Maintain and even improve biodiversity
• Strengthen institutions involved in forest sector
management.
The total project cost will be US$89.10 million, and IDA is
providing US$77.4 million of ·this in credi~ The project is complex,
addressing problems and opportunities across the sector, and it is
\
focused on reform and renewal of the Forestry Department through
changes in policy, training, and direction; improvements in planning
and conservation management; technology development' and
research; development of joint forest management;and the promotion
of private sector involvement in forestry.
The project supports forest rehabilitation and development
on 354,600 hectares, and 50 percent of its budget is reserved for
restoring forests through joint forest management. The main forestry
investments are for the protection of degraded areas with viable
rootstock; treatment of natural regeneration of forest vegetation;
enrichment planting, particularly of non-timber forest products (such
as bamboo) cherished most by local people; and soil and moisture
conservation works. The project further supports joint forest
management by:
• Funding training andstudy tours for village leaders
• Providing initial incentives for community efforts through
support for improved drinking water facilities
• Reducing fuel wood consumption through the introduction
of alternative energy technologies
• Helping to meet priority development needs identified
during initial negotiations
• Providing development assistance to tribal groups

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh----.---
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 297

• Fostering NGO participation.

Thus, joint forest management is a central component that
absorbs a major portion of the investment in the project.
Unfortunately, the project got off to a slow start. Some of the
villagers were hesitant to come forward and assume responsibility
for forest management. Forestry Department staff had their own
reservations about the suitability of joint forest management for
conditions in Andhra Pradesh. As Mr. Mukherjirelates,"Initiallyofficers
had to visit the villages over and over again to convince the people to
join them, In one instance, it took 29 meetings to convince people
that the departmentwas serious;there were occasionswhere villagers
refused to attend meetings. The barrier created due to years of
regimental functioning of the department was coming in the way of
working with the people." In 1994, the first year of the project, only a
few VSS were formed; by the second year, 263 villages had signed
on and were working with the Forestry Department to protect the
forests, but by mid-1998, the number of VSS had increased
exponentiallyto 5,051 (1,665 of these are supported under IDA project
funds and the balance by other state funds). In a review of the joint
forest management program, Mr. Mukherji concluded that "the major
hurdle in Andhra Pradesh was to change the habit of its employees,
from doing everything departmentally to involving the people as equal
partners. Once forest officers start believing in the people and are
mentally prepared to help the poor, then half the battle is won.
However, for this change of mind-set, some dedicated officers at the
helm of affairs must be available."
At the outset, foresters had to spend a great deal of time in
meetings trying to convince people of the value of the program; now,
in 1998 the situation is quite reversed. After seeing the benefits of
joint forest managementnearby,villagersare demandingthe formation
of VSS in their own villages. The problem now for the Forestry
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 298 NEERU - MEERU

Department is meeting these demands and expectations.

Andhra Pradesh's Policiesand Procedures Shape Joint Action

, The joint forest management program is framed by a

government orderthat sets out the principles and procedures for VSS
formation, the roles and responsibilities of the VSS and the Forestry
Department, and explains the benefit-sharing policies. Andhra
Pradesh's benefit sharing policy is the most generous and ambitious
of all the states' policies in India. It stipulates that VSS will share all of
the non-timber forest produce (grasses, fuel wood, fruit, medicines,
and so forth) amongst themselves, and that they will also receive
100 percent of the income from the harvest of timber and bamboo
. resulting from their protection efforts, providing that they set aside
half of this income for the future development and maintenance of
the forest. Thus, the policy ensures resources for the long-term
sustainability of the forest and recognizes that government support
will be required only in the first few years while the forest returns to a
productive state.
How Joint Forest Management Works

The Forestry Department is responsible for organizing and

providing technical and administrative support to the VSS. Villages
on the fringe of the degraded forests are carefully selected. To the
extent possible, socially homogeneous group~ are brought into one
VSS fold. Persons from all households are eligible to become
members, but those from the most deprived section of society the
scheduled castes and tribes are automaticallyeligible to be members.
Generally, two people from each household become members, and
one of them must be a woman. Most VSS range in size from 75 to
150 members. This general body elects a managing committee of 10
to 15 members, 30 percent of whom must be women, who in turn

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Vana SamrakshanaSamithies(VSS) 299

elect a chairperson to oversee and manage the affairs of the VSS.

The Forestry Department participates on this committee through its
field officer, who acts as a secretary. It is proposed to transfer this
task to the committee over time.
The primary purpose of the VSS is to protect the forest from
encroach~ent, gr~zing, theft, and fire, ·and to improve the forest in
accordance with an approved joint forest management plan. This
local plan, known as a microplan, is formulated in stages. The
discussion about what to do with the forest is initiated through a
participatory rural appraisal. In this way, all members of the VSS get
a chance to take part and express their views. The Forestry
Department surveys the forest adjoining the village and demarcates
boundaries at this time. Keeping the conclusions of the initial
discussions as a framework, a detailed microplan for forest
development is prepared by the committee and the forester. Where
available, locally based non-government organizations (NGOs) help
facilitate this planning process. Thereafter, costed annual programs
are worked out and submittedto the ForestryDepartmentfor approval.
The microplans are designed to ensure protection of the forest and
aim to restore its productive capacity as quickly as possible. All of
the planting. silvicultural operations, and soil conservation works are
undertaken by members of the VSS and paid for out of project funds.
A legal memorandum of understanding between the VSS and the
Forestry Department formally details the duties. functions, and
entitlements of everyone involved.
As compensation for protecting a particular forest, a VSS is
entitled to all of that forest's produce. The income so generated must
be distributed equally among the members of the VSS. However, in
most instances, it will be a number of years before these degraded
forests start generating any income. Thus, at the outset, to help
motivate people and to address some of their most pressing social

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof Andhra Pradesh-----

300 NEERU - MEERU

needs, the Forestry Department provides some support to village

development. For example, micro-plans promote women's thrift
groups and provide for drinkingwater facIlities,community halls,water
storage facilities, fishponds, household biogas plants, low-cost
smokeless ovens, and small-scale irrigation facilities. The project
supports some of these "entry point"activities, but mainly the foresters
must seek the assistance of other government departments or NGOs
to facilitate this broader rural development. In many instances, this
experience has encouraged the government to assign foresters the
task of .coordinating all rural development assistance within their
localities. This trend illustrates the transformation of the Forestry
Department, which now successfully integratesthe conservation and
development aims of the government.
The works and funds of the VSS are handled in a transparent
manner jointly by the chairperson of the VSS and the forester who
acts as the secretary. This transparency helps to ensure the quality
and cost-effectiveness of all activities.

The Impact of Joint ForestManagement

The present arrangement is well received by the people who

participate in [oint forest management. They are aware of their
responsibilitiesand entitlements.With protection,the degradedforests
have sprung back to life. Timber smuggling has almost been stopped.
Cattle grazing is under control. There is no further encroachment by
agriculture on lands vested with VSS. Between 1983 and 1993, 45
percent of the forest in the Adilabad district was lost to these
encroachments. Since joint forest management was launched, this
trend has been reversed, and there have been no reports of forest
loss in any areas currently managed by VSS. Village labor is gainfully
employed, and out-migration has declined. Women participate in ali
VSS affairs as equal partners and get the same pay as men. The soil

----...;_" Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
Vana Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 301

conservation works have resulted in higher water tables in many

areas, leading in turn to improvementsin agriculturalproduction.There
is a general improvement in the flora and fauna of the area. To monitor
these changes, the governmentof Andhra Pradeshhas commissioned
an independent evaluation.
The gains are impressive. Joint forest management has
become a mass movement in the state. Standing on a high ridge
overlooking the Odepally forest in Nizamabad district, a forest
regenerated with the assistance of a VSS, the conservator, Mr.
Pandey, said: "The smugglers had removed even the stumps from
the forest. But with VSS protection, the forest has bounced back to
life. See the swaying trees, hear the chirping sounds of birds, and
melodious note of the fast-flowing stream. Nature has so much vitality
to revive if only human vandalism is stopped."

Sustaining the Momentum for Change

The swift expansion of the joint forest management approach
in Andhra Pradesh has been driven by the spectacular regeneration
of forests and the resulting economic gains of local people, and by
the personal involvement of the state's Chief Minister, who turned
the strategy into a mass movement and ensured access to resources
from different sources. The rapid, visible, and tangible results paved
the way for growingenthusiasmand participation.A band of committed
and visionary forest officers, benefiting from substantial training, and
the involvement of NGOs, contributed to.this rapid stride.
To sustainthe efforts and gains of thejoint forest management
program, integrated development of the fringe villages is critical. This
includes developing technologies to increase the productivity of
forests, changing enforcement regulations, focusing on the
regeneration of common wastelands to reduce pressure on forests,
providing new skills and employment to people, and introducing

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
302 NEERU - MEERU

measures to improve the quality of life. The state has focused its
attention on these issues by pooling resources and directing
developmental efforts through coordinated action at the district level.

Effective Collaboration Is the Key to Success

Joint forest management differs from many earlier attempts
to promote forestry oriented to meeting people's needs. The essential
difference is that it builds from the roles played by both local forest
users and the professionals employed by the state to act as
custodians. The head of the Forestry Department, Mr. Mukherji,
concludes that the "experience in Andhra Pradesh has shown that
deforestation cannot be stopped by the Forestry Department alone.
Experience has also shown that communities on their own cannot do
much. It is the combined effort of community and government that
seems to be the best solution under prevailing circumstances where
a large section of the people are illiterate and poor, and are unequal
to the dominant group. Government intervention is needed to ensure
equity, transparency, and to strengthenthe voice ofthe poor. Similarly,
particlpatlon of the people is absolutely necessary to keep constant
vigil against all odds and to protect the forests. NGOs playa very
vital role in bridging the gap between the bureaucracy and the people.
VSS should not be viewed only to develop the degraded forests but
as an instrument for an overall development of village resources and
its people."

Key Lessons
There are many lessons to be learned from the successes
and difficulties experienced by the foresters and villagers as they
have embarked on [oint forest management in Andhra Pradesh. It i's
still very early days for the program, the forests are only just starting
to rejuvenate, and many institutional and technical challenges lie

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Van a Samrakshana Samithies (VSS) 303

ahead. However, lessons that have emerged so far include:

• Managed natural regeneration, together with effective
protection from fire and grazing, provides a cost-effective
means of rejuvenating large areas of degraded forest.
• Rapid natural reger1eration provides a major incentive for
increased participation in joint forest management.
• Sharing of benefitsand responsibilitiesfor forest management
can provide sufficient incentive for people's participation in
the restoration of forests.
• Training and reorientation of frontline staff is essential from
the outset of the program.
• Committed leadership,particularlyat the politicallevel, makes
a huge difference to the pace of reform.
• The participatory forestry approach will lead to a radical shift
in the orientation and "managementof the government forest
service; it will result in a service that is less insular, more
client-oriented, and responsive to the conservation and
developmental needs of the local people.
• NGO involvement improves the quality of participation and
helps facilitate joint action by the bureaucracy and the
villagers, but it can be effective only when there is demand
for NGO services at the field level.
• VSS management of funds and accounts contributes to the
sense of ownership and responsibility for the sustainability
of the program.
• Forest conservation and development need to be undertaken
in conjunction with village development in order to improve
rural livelihoodsand reduce poverty,and strong linkagesneed
to be built between these two related objectives in order to

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

304 •
NEERU - MEERU

sustain people's commitment to forest management.

• Success begets success: the initial success with joint forest
management caught the attention and imagination of
politicians and leaders and has in turn resulted in the
exponential growth of the program.
Conclusion:-

It has been observed that increasing the availability and

productivity of scarce resource viz. Water, through technical and
economical inputs, helps in ensuring the success of forest protection
and conservation measures and it can be possible if the people get
of perceive suitable benefits from the works taken.
An agreement of faith with local people is established to
exchange protection and conservation helps for access to resource
and benefits can be realised by the community.
The sought after resource in the villagewas water I increased
fodder and fuel wood, for which VSS is protecting the forest area to
varying degrees, as a result increase in their production and rational
use.
The effective use if Natural Resource (on largely submarginal
and fragile land) requires increased level of inputs and regulations
and increased capabilities of the people for which external support is
essential.
Increase the potential of earning capabilities of the poorest
of the poor will help in making the protection good.
Additional economic inputsare neededto ensure participation
of IJjghpercentage of households.

(1-Source:- http://wbln1 018. worldbank.org/sarlsa. nsflOI

acf2b8a3eb9f69878525687f00605632?OpenDocument )

----'--Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 12
NEERU - MEERU
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
The organization and tech~ical implementation of
programmes related to conservation of water by diverse
means is perennial and is a massive effective action. In this
context, the technical approach to water conservation is quite
relevant and a basic means to carry on the operations. The
report of the Technical Committee under Water Conservation
Mission is a guide to several institutions and operations in
respect of conservation of water. Though the documentation
is mainly to focus on efforts made by the State of Andhra
/

Pradesh in water conservation, the Technical Report that

follows is quite relevant as for continued action.

INTRODUCTION:
Watershed Development activities were introduced in the
drought prone areas of India in the 1970s. In the beginning they
remained largely as Government linedepartmentprogrammeswithout
participation of the stakeholders. The situation vastly improved in
1994-95, when the Governrnent of India in the Rural Development
Department issued detailed guidelines on organization aspects,
finances, programme content, training and the most important issue
of the stakeholders' participation. Technology on Watershed
development for different hydrogeological regions and agro climatic
zones will have to be developed in order to maximise the benefits.
. \
The author has developed a technology in 1989- 1992,while working
with CIRDAP (Center for Integrated Rural Development for Asia and
Pacific) as Water Resources Consultant for "Eleven Asian and Pacific

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
306 NEERU - MEERU

countries". This was named as "Integrated Four Waters Concept".

The four waters are, rainwater, soil moisture upto water table level,
Ground water and surface water. Technical aspects of watersheds
pertaining to five science and Technology departments (Irrigation,
Agriculture, Soil Conservation, ground water and geo-engineering)
are integrated in this concept. This was tried on a pilot basis in several
countries (China and Vietnam) and some parts in India. This
technology was also discussed and refined in the international
conference on "Water Policy" held at the Cranfield University, UK in
September, 1996, when the author presented the same. The results
were encouraging, since the benefits due to this technology are three
times more and recharge ten times more (for the same cost) than the
conventional technology. This does not mean that the other aspects,
such as proper utilization of funds, people's participation etc., are not
important. In fact, for any technology to succeed, these are the basis
building blocks, since the technology cannot stand alone. The
concepts are clearly explained in this paper comprising of 18 pages
note with annexures and 35 pages dr.awingsand Ready Reckoner
Tables. This technology emphasises on water spreading techniques
to facilitate recharge to ground water, in the upper areas of watershed,
through mini percolation tanks insteadof the conventionalcheckdams
in the main valley; recharge through gully percolation tanks, and
sunken pits; cover crops to prevent soil moisture evaporation..
Methods for keeping open dug wells full and tapping this water for
irrigation, (instead of bore wells in the hard rock areas); making the
main stream perennial and divert surface flows for irrigation (two or
three crops) by means of low cost structures; subsurface dams to
conserve the recharged ground water etc. The field technical and
non-technical staff, implementing the programmes can easily follow
the plans and estimates. For the convenience of staff, ready reckoner
tables are prepared giving dimensions of difflMentsizes of structures

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Neeru-Meeru .
307
Technical Committee Report

as well as estimated quantities of work' for each' size and type' of

structure. There is no necessity to prepareseparate plans and
estimates, unless a special type of work is needed. Thus,by following
the type designs and ready reckoner tables, the preparatory work for
plans and estimates would be reduced to a minirnum, and the
execution of works can be speeded up. Watersh,ed.Committee
members, with some training can.also follow the drawings and Ready
Reckoner Tables. This would lead tobetter people's partlclpatlon in
planning and execution of works and also subsequent-mainte'nanCe.
FOUR WATERS'CONCE~! SUMMARY
WORKS:
~ MINI PERCOLATION TANKS NEAR RIDGES, GULlLYS.
.~ BOUNDARY BUNDS AND CONTOUR BUNDS TECHNOLOGY.
~ SUNKEN PITS IN SERIES IN GULLEYS.· .
~ ';'DIVERSldN STRUCTURES IN STREAMS (LOW COST).
~. SUB SURFACE DAMS IN ALLUVIUM AND DIS.
~ TRENCHES AL~()UND HILLOCKS,' MOliNDS (CONTOUR)
CCTs, GULLY CROSSING'S,MINI PERCOLATION TANKS,
. ~. '. ;:

~ TANKS, LIVE STORAGE, '$EDIMENTATION l:RANSPORT-

SUPPL.Y CHANNELS. .' ." '~

~. .PLQU<?HIN9_ACI30SSSLOPES., .
- '. ..
~ CIRCULAR DUG WELLS WITH RqUGH STONE STEINING.
VEGETATIVE:- , _, " :':

~ COVER CROPS.
'j.' ALLEY FARMING. . .... ',',. -; ,
.~ TREeS fi'{RIDGE' BORDRS,'WASTE LANDS. FORESTS.
. ~ -z

~ TREES IN FIELD BU~D$ (PEEP ROOTED, NON

INTERFERENCE WITH CROPS).
 308 NEERU- MEERU

WATERSHED DEVELOPMENT - PROCEDU.RE

~ SELECTION OF VILLAGES AND PIAs.
~ WDT (WATERSHEDDEVELOPMENTTEAMS (APPOINTED BY
PIAs FOR 10 TO 12 WS (Multi'disciplinary)
~ TRAINING OF WDT.
~ PRA EXERCISE (BY WDT).
~ BASIC SURVEY (BY WDT) C<?NTOURMAP.
~ IDENTIFY COMMUNITY LEADERS, VILLAGE VOLUNTEERS
(BYWDT).
~ WATERSHED ASSOCIATION (WA) OF MEMBERS OF
PANCHAYAT - ELECT PRESIDENT - REGISTER (MIN-
2MEETINGS I YEAR).
~ WATERSHED COMMITTEE (WC) - DAY-TO-DAY WORK-
ROTATION (9+2).
~ APPOINT WATERSHEDSECRETARY(WS) BYWC- FULLTIME
~ PAID AND VOLUNTEERS (3) PAID.
~ OPENING WS PROJECT ACCOUNT (JOINT-CHAIRMAN, WC,
WDT MEMBER AND SECRETARY WS- two to sign).
~ PREPARATION OF WATERSHED PLAN (WITH RIDGE
~OUNDARIES (About 500 Ha.). MARK ALL VALLEYS, DIPS,
MOUNDS, SUB RDIGES, SUB VALLEYS- CONTOUR MAP.
~ PREPARE SOIL CLASSIFICATION AND LAND USE PLAN,
COVER CROPS, TREES.
~ PLAN LAND AND WATER DEVELOPMENT INTERVENTIONS
CONTOUR/BOUNDARY BUNDS, FIELD DROPS, GULLEY
PONDS, MINI PERCOLATIONTANKS, PERCOLATIONTANKS,
SUNKEN GULLY PITS, CCTs, DIVERSION WEIRS, SUB
SURFACE DAMS.
~ START IMPLEMENTING THE PROGRAMME.

-- .........
-Or.M.C.R.H.R.DInstitute
ofAndhraPradesh----
 Neeru-Meeru 309 -
Technical Committee Report

PARTICIPATORY TECHNOLOGY FOR WATERSHED

DEVELOPMENT

FOUR WATERS CONCEPT - DETAILED PLANS AND ESTIMATES

1.Checkdams: There will not be a general need to construct a

diversion weir structure (called checkdam) in small watersheds of
500 Ha. area in a routine manner as presently being done in most of
the watersheds. However if there is a need to construct these
structures in special cases, such as recharge zones in upland areas,
it is required to follow the design norms described here. Catchment
area at the structure will have to be demarcated in the top of sheet
(Survey of India). Maximumflood discharge willhave to be calculated
as per the norms being adopted in the Minor Irrigation Department
(vide Guidelines issued by Chief Engineer, Minor Irrigation in 1986 _
Printed book): The checkdam structure will have to be designed for
passing the maximum flood discharge. A free board of 0.90m to the
abutment (above M.F.L.) will have to be provided. The free board to
the earthen bank sections on either side of the structure will have to
be 1.20m. (Fig 15.). The length of the checkdam will have to be
designed based upon existing site conditions, to matchwith the.bed
width of the stream and side slopes. The height of body wall may be
kept to a minimum (say about 1.00 M), in order to make the structure
economical. High body walls would need wide aprons (Concrete
and rough stone), and also the thickness of aprons would be.more,
to withstand uplift pressures. A high body wall would also result in
the increase of afflux, necessitating higher abutments and
embankment connections. If proper bank connections with enough
of free board are not provided, it would result in breaching at flanks
and out-flanking the structllre .. Poorly designed structures hitherto
executed have. resulted in failures. Also when the quality of
construction is not maintained, it would result in damages on the
down streamside aprons as well as failure of abutments and bank

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 310 NEERU-MEERU

connections: The designs so far adopted in Andhra Pradesh are

, - based on the drawings and ready reckonertables preparedfor surplus
weirs (spill ways) as given in the guidelines for Minor Irrigation(1986).
In the absence of special' deSigns" this would serve the purpose.
Howevereconomiescould be made in this design to suit the checkdarn
structures across the streams. One important economy would be to
reduce the uplift pressures on the down stream aprons. Drawing
No.15 gives details of design of a checkdam structure to be followed
in the Watersheds. These dimensions vary, depending upon height
of body wall and head of flow over thebody wall. The tables give
values for heights of body wall ranging from O.60mto 1.80m and fOF
heads of flow varying from O.60mto 1.50m. The thickness and lengths
of ,s-olidaprons are minimized in this design, by introducing porous
,concrete blocks for the release of uplift pressures. The details of
porous concrete blocks and the reverse filter to be provided are clearly
explained in the drawing.' Graded metal and sand filters are provided
fOr each of the porous blocks asshown in the plan and cross sections.
'The locations of these blocks are staggered as shown in the figure
With a spacing of 1m centre to centre. Economics are made in this
design as' against the minor irrigation,surplus weir design, and the
same are discussed below. When the uplift pressure is reduced by a
safe device like this, it is possible to reduce the thickness of aprons.
, Also the length of solid apron is designed in a manner to contain the
hydraulicjump within the solid apron. Similarlythe depths of upstream
and down stream cut of walls are accordingly reduced to meet the
'requirement of the reduced uplift pressures; The rough stone apron
on the down stream side of the cut off wall is designed to dissipate
the energy of flowing water as well as to behave as a launching apron,
, in the case of any scours forming on the down stream side. For easy
estimation a fable of quantities of various items of works such as
, cement concrete, wearing coat, rough stone apron revetment are
'Calculated for different heights of body wall and different heads' of

---__;_-Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D InstituteofAndhrafl.radesh-__,__,--
Neeru-Meeru 31'1
Technical Committee Report

flow. These details are given in Table NO.B. Stop logs with grooves'
are introduced at either end of the body wall. These are intended to
scour the silt' formed on the upstream side. They have to be kept
open during the flood period and closed during the time of recedi!'1g
floods (wl1enspilling over body wall stops). The farmers'and members
of Watershed Development Committee can be trained to follow th.
drawings and ready reckoner tables. It is possible to execute eveO"a
complicated work ofthis type, by following the type designs and ready
reckoner tables. Generallytherewill not be a ne.edto prepareseparate
plans and estimates for these checkdam structures. However-when
a separate need arises the saIT;lecan be prepared by the technical
staff in the field (W.D.T. Members), 'adopting..the design prihciples
given in this,chapter.

2.Mini Percolation Tanks: As mentioned earlier, it would be possible

to construct about 35 mini percolation ponds in a 'watershed 0(500' .'
hectares. A checkdam across the main stream would cost about
Rs.2.50'lakhs.
- -
Within the same cost, a large number of mini
~.
percolation tanks can be constructed in the watershed areas, close
to the ridges, across the first order of streams as given hi Figure~4. A
typical L.S. of earthen bundfor mini percolationpond is given in Figure-
6. Cross section of a typical bund is given in Figure-7.· Plan showing
a typical bund, as well as the borrow area for excavation
. of .soils-'are.
given in Figure-B. There is no necessity to provide key trenches or a
cut of wall, for the earthen bund. A key trench would have no'speciai
advantage and on the other hand, would become a problem area,
due to improper compaction. There is no necessity for cut off trench
for'a small structure of this type,
.~
where the emphasis
._ .
is on recharge.
.,

It is essential to prepare the base of the earthen bund by removing -

the topsoil, 'fo.ra thickness ~ofabout 0.1Om. When the depth of roots
of grass or weeds is more, the stripping depth can be increased
suitably. the stripped soils can be deposited as separate heaps all
along the downstream of bund to be used later on, for spreading

-----Dr~M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
312 NEERU - MEERU

over the bund. Since the topsoils are fertile, this would encourage
growth of grass on the top and sides of the bund. The earthen bund
may be formed by soils obtained in the borrow area which can be
located within the submersion area. The details of location of borrow
area, the minimum distance from the toe of earthen bund, width and
depth of borrow pit, are given for various heights of earthen bund, in
Figure-B. The top layer in the borrow pits would have roots and
vegetative growth. A layer of 0.10 to 0.1Smts depth in the borrow
area may be removed and heaped separately all along the upstream
toe of the bund. The excavated soils below the stripped layer may
be used for formation of the bund. Soils may be deposited in layers
of 0.20m thick and consolidated by means of one-ton roller or by
trampling of animals. If the soils are not having adequate moisture,
water may be added to the required extent. The stripped soils from
borrow area may be used for spreading over the top of the buhd to
promote vegetative grown. Ready reckoner tables are prepared for
the earthen dam for various heights ranging from O.SOmto 2.60m.
These quantities are given in Table No.1. For different heights of
body wall, bottom width, quantities for stripping soils, earthen bund
quantities etc., have been given and costs of the same are worked
out. The drawing as well as the tables prepared in this connection
would make the estimation work very simple. The only field data that
would be needed, isthe longitudinalsection (L.S.) of the ground profile
where the structure has to be built. The drawings and tables given,
can be readily used for estimation purposes and execution later on.
There is no need to prepare separate drawings and estimates. Since
thousands of suth small ponds will have to be constructed, this work
is made easy through preparation of type designs and ready reckoner
tables. The percolation ponds will have to be provided with spilling
arrangements to take out the flood discharge. The spilling
arrangements, would be a simple low cost roughstone paved bye-
wash, Structural details of the paved bye-wash are given in Figure.9.

----""-. Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 313
Technical Committee Report

The length of the paved bye-wash willhave to be designed according

to the quantity of maximum flood flow, it has to spill. A ready reckoner
table, giving peak flood discharge, for catchment areas ranging from
5 to 20 hectares is given in table.2. In this table, the length of the
paved bye-wash as well as the quantities of earthwork excavation, •
roughstone revetment are given. The only requirement is to assess
the extent of catchment area for the structure of percolation pond.
This can be done by identifying the ridge lines of the catchment in
the tapa sheet, or the contour map of the watershed. The ridge
boundaries can also be located approximatelyfrom the drainage map,
in the absence of contour map or a tapa sheet. Peak flow discharges
given in the Ready Reckoner table would be applicable for most of
the semi arid tropics. However if there is a need to change the values
of C. & I (in the formulae 0 = CIA+360), in specific and the special
cases, it may be done and the maximum discharge figures can be
calculated. A model calculation for arriving at the length of the paved
bye-wash, as well as the various quantities of work involved are given
in table.2. There is no need to have costly roughstone revetment for
the bund on the water side, as the wave height would be lnslqnlflcant.
With the help of this table, members of watershed committee, as well
as the farmers, can prepare the estimates and execute the works.
Cost of each pond may work out from Rs.5,OOO/-to Rs.10,000/-, for
I .
catchment area of about 10 hectares.
Maximum flood discharge ('0') varies depending upon the
intensity of precipitation, duration, type of soils, slope and vegetative
cover in the catchment, and this varies from place to place. If a
higher '0' than that designed occurs, the depth of flow over the weir
would exceed 0.4 m and it would encroach into the free board (of
0.6m provided). In such cases, the concerned farmers will have to
strengthen the bund by raising-the TBl at the vulnerable places. In
case the actual '0' is less than that designed, the depth of flow over
the weir would be less than O.4m, resulting in more free board and

-----Dr.M.CR.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

314 NEERU-MEERU

the structure would have no pn?blem.

3.Percolation tiriks:'~WhEm mini percolation tanks are constructed

in all the first order streams, dips and valleys near ridge and sub-
ridge boundaries; the need for bigger percolation tanks may not be
felt within the watersheds. However if there is any:such need, they
can':be designed' and constructed as per the norms given by the
Irrigation'Department and State Ground Water Department. In
- -. . _" . . "'{ _",

addition to these norms, 'the following aspects may be observed.

of
There is no necessity for a cut trench for blinds upto 5in height.
Key trenches atthe base may be avoided as they do not serve any
usefulpurpose.To economize the cost and at the same time satisfy'
, ,- ; " ,

the technical requirements, the rough stone revetment may be limited

to the waVe zone and n'earab()ut.' In'steadofstartin~ revetment from
the toe, it can be started from a'level 2m below FTL (Full Tank Level)
and takerrupto TBL (fop ~f Bund Level). This is ana'l~goust<:>starting
the revetment from LWL (Lowest Water Level) instead of the toe, for
earthen dams in' major projects.
-, ' !
4:Sunken,gully pits: Tbe present method of constrYc.tingroughstone
ro~kfjll checks,in the ,gullies" is servinq a limited purposein the, first
few .
years, ln the,semi
.'
arid.tropic ~
-
areas.
.'.
Since .the spacing. of. these
"

rockfill checks could not be kept close enough to farm terraces in the
steeply sloping streams, they are not giving the desired benefits. A
better method of providing sunken pits in gullies was found to be
useful, serving the twin purpose of erosion control in gullies: as well
as increasinq th~ recharge. Details of the gully'i?jts~are oivenin
figure.14. Revetment is provided at the entry side of the pit, to prevent
scours and retroqression. A small rough stone apron in the bed 'Of
pit, is provided to with stand the''falling f1~w'Ofwater. Th~r~ is no ,
need
"
to .provide
:.
rough
.'
stone revetment on the exit side of pit, as the.
water
,
levels would gradually
,
build
"
up before outflow
.
occurs.
'I
It is
necessary to provide a.silt trap' for a' set of three pits. Details of silt,
':" :','~ -, " ' ' , , ' " "I ' ,

--.,.:---.....-~, Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D InstituteQf Andhra Pradesh-----

 Neeru-Meeru 315
Technical Committee Report

trap, revetment on. the upstream side of the sunken pit, and flow
pattern. of stream in the gully are given in Figl~re.14. TRe sllt
~ accumulated in the silt trap will have to be periodi,:aUyremoved by'
the farmers whose lands are close to the gully!. Such silt would add
to the fertility status of the soils and the farmers would be too willing
to use the same for enriching their soils..The length, of pit at bed level
can be about4.00m and tbe clear distance fro~{1onepltto another pit,
can also be 4;00 meters; A silt trap may be Ilf1tFoducedafter every
three pits. These pits will have to be executed starting from the foot
of the hill or end of the steep slopes. Such pitswill have to be executed
in all the first order of streams and also in the second order streams.
Wherever such pits were executed it was found that there was a
good base flow in the streams down belo~. sbil erosionI.in the gullies
c." -...... • ; ~. I

was reduced to a minimum on account Of storiagescre~ted within the

gully., The. velocity of flow within \t the g,ully
.' was~ also1:.less and. '" the
erosion was .
minimum wherever ,such,Iworks \were executed.'.
At. the '
starting point of the gully pits, a m',nipercolation pond rrl'aybe formed
very close to the foot of thehill, 11r ~t the:'~ndoftl:le'steE~pslope. 'The
design for such mini ponds, wou~dbe the same as the rnlnlpercolation,
'. . d .,'.
pond alrea,~ydescribed. The flo ws corninq from hillflope.s and steep
slopes, would get i_nterceptedthrough such rnlnl storages, and the
p~a~ flOW.~ischargewould gel' .at.tenuated.Forord'lflary storms, the.
mini storages on the upstream Side of gully would ,get filled and the.
water would percolate down below. Only when a 'very heavy
precipitation occurs, this sto' age will spill and the quantity of .spill
would be much less than the peak flood flow in the gully. Thus erosion'
in the gully' can be drastically reduced 'with stojaqe' built on the
upstream side, and series of pits on the down stream side. The'
stored water inthe upstream pond'wouldmake enough of soil moisture'
available for any perennial crop (horticulture) that would be grown on'
the down stream side of hi!\'slopes. Where such storages were buill;
it Was seen thafthere was 'no nked for irrigating horticultural crops

------Dr.M.C.RH.R.,D Institute
ofAndhraPradesh-----
 316 NEERU - MEERU

even during summers. The members of the Watershed Committee

can make use of drawing given in Figure.14 and the ready reckoner
tables given in Tables 5 and table 6 and execute the works. The
ready reckoner tables gives details of earth work excavation and
roughstone revetment for the gully pits. It is possible to follow the
details given in the drawing very easily, and cost of the same can be
worked out using the ready reckoner tables. These type designs
and ready reckoner tables would facilitate quick preparation of
estimates and speed up execution of works by the farmers
themselves.

5. Cover crops, soil moisture and organic manure: Detailsofthese

aspects are given separately (Annexure-I). There is' no need to
prepare any drawings or estimates for this activity. Only cost of the
seed will have to be provided and seed made available, for dibbling
before the end of the crop season. However there is need to
periodically test the fertility status of soils every year, say in the month
of July for the first five years. If the operations are successfully carried
out the organic carbon content would get increased to 0.90% during
the 3rdor 4ui year. Also the phosphatic content (Pps) would get
increased to about 75 kgs per hectare during the 3rdor 4thyear. If
periodical increase of these parameters is not noticed, appropriate
steps for changing the type of cover crop or density of dibbled seeds
etc., will have to be considered.

6. Boundary bunds and contour bunds: Farmers' preference to

boundary bunds as against contour bunds, and the need for technical
designs for boundary bunds were discussed in chapter 1 and 2.
Details of typical sloping boundary bunds are shown in Figures 11
and 12. There is no need to form the boundary bund all along the
.~ sloping length. As shown in Figure 11, the boundary bund can be
restricted to the lower portionsfor a length qf say 50meters as against
80 meters of the length of bund, There is no need for a bund at the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 317
Technical Committee Report

higher places, since no water would get collected at these places.

However a small demarcation bund would be needed at such places.
Details of longitudinal section and cross sections of the bund at various
places are indicated in this figure. It may be seen that the height of
bund varies from 0.30m to O.BOm. At the lowest ground level, the
height of the bund is maximum. This is to ensure that the top of the
bund may be at the same level through out the length. The spilling
arrangement should be provided at one end of the bund as shown in
the drawing. In Figure.12, a different type of slope is depicted. Here
also, no bund is needed at the higher ground levels:Ready reckoner
table for a boundary bund of 50m length is given in table 4. The
cross section area of the bund varies from place to place along the
bund, and the details of the same are given in this ready reckoner
table. Since the costing of this work is also given in this table, it is
possible for the members of the Watershed Committee to estimate
the quantities of work and also the cost of the same. This will facilitate
quick execution of the boundary bunds. lncldentally this item of work
is not receiving the due attention in the field, with the result, the contour
bund sections are being adopted .uniformly all along the sloping
boundary, and this is resulting in breaches and erosion below the
breaches. Watershed Development Committee should take special
interest in this item of work while bunding along the boundaries. In
Germalem watershed (MYRADA, Bangalore), boundary bunds were
constructed by the farmers adopting the above principles.

7. Dup wells and bore wells: Any watershed development

programme should aim at making the dug wells function during most
of summer. Presently most of the dug wells have very low water table
levels (10 to 15 m.b.g.1.) even during rainy season and would be
virtually dry, during the non-rainy season. It has to be ensured that
water table level is brought to, two or three m.b.g.1. during the rainy
season, such that the wells yield water during the entire summer
period. Many villagers in South India in recent times, have abandoned

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
318 NEERU-MEERU

their dug wells as they have gone dry and have resorted to bore
wells This is not a good development considering that there are about
e ,

18 lakh dug wells in Andhra Pradesh alone. In several villages iii

Ranga Reddy Di.strict in Andhra Pradesh, initially bore wells were
drilled (during the late 80s) to a depth of Sam. In the late 90s the
bore wells were drilled to a depth,of 150m to get the same yield, lt.is
a misconception to think that more ground water can be 'obtained by.
dnilling more number of deep bores in the hard rock areas. When
there is no improvement in the.recharge, water table levels fall down
significantly year after year. Appropriate technology is therefore.do
ensure that ground water is stored in the weathered zone aquifer, in
an adequate manner as already described. In hard rock areas, the
ground water divide, usually coincides epproximatelywith the surface
water divide. As such there will not be ground water flow from the
neighbouring watersheds, which would be having their own ridge
boundaries .. If additional ground water-has to be pumped, i.t is
necessary to increase the recharge in the weathered zone aquifer,
within the watershed. As discussed in Chapters 2 and 3, there is a
need for obtaining the entire irriqatlonrequirernent through weathered
zone aquifer. To facilitate this, new dug. wells will have to be
constructed to utilize the increased recharge to ground water,
facilitated by the Watershed Development Programme. The wells
can be circular in plan and prcvlded.with the revetment with 0.225m
thick roughstone, forming steining of the. well.. Above the ground
level, a small parapet wall about 0.50m height, (pointed with cement
mortar), may be constructed. Depth ofthe steining below G.L., can
I . . . .
be upto nard soils viz., disintegrated rock. Care should be taken that
\ .
no surface run off enters the well at any point. sucha surface run
off, will have to be diverted through simple open channels constructed
outside the well. The depth of well can vary from 10-meters to 15
meters, according to the depth of the weathered zone. There is no
need to excavate in the hard rock strata, as this i~ not cost effective,

-----Or.M.C.R.H.RD Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Neeru-Meeru 319
. Technical Committee Report

and also this would not give significant additional yields .. The depth
upto hard rock will usually vary from 10 to 15 meters in the semi-arid
tropics. An electrical driven pump set-or diesel driven pump set can
be used for. pumping water from the dug wells., The cost of such dug
well and pump set, would vary from Rs.30,OOO/-to Rs.50,OOO/-. The
drilling of bore wells, and installation of submersible pump sets for.
pumping irrigation water, may be avoided for the reasons mentioned
earlier. To facilitate utilising the weathered zone aquifer fully, the
watershed development techniques as already described will have
.to be done,starting from ridge 10 valley.·

8. Continuous Contour Trenches (C.C.Ts): Rectifications for C.C.Ts.

and details with regard to new C.C.Ts. are described in Annexure~lI.
In order to facilitate easy understanding and execution of this important.
work, a type design and ready' reckoner tables are prepared. Aligning
of C.C.T. at the foot of hill (or at end of a steep slope), and cross
section orC.C.T. are given in Figure.10. The c.c.r. should be
continuous and aligned striclly along the contour. There should.be
no breaks (Chaptas) in its length till it joins a gully. If the C.C.Is. are
executed according to the details given, there would be no problem
of silting up of C.C.T. or non function of the same, .However the
C.C.T. ,WOUld be over~flowing when there is a continuous heavy
precipitation. To facilitate easy discharge of such flows, and preventing
the breaches of the bank along the C.C.T., it is necessary to join the
C.C.T. to th.e nearest gully or stream course. The manner in which
this has to be done is described in this figure. A rough stone spill will
have to be provided at the end-of CCT,where it joins the gully. This
would facilitate storage of water 'in C9T and safe overflow into ·the
gully, during very. heavy rains. Excavated soil of CCT will have to be
deposited giving a clear margin of 1~OOmberm, as-shown in the
drawings. Also ..side slopes of the cutsection will have to be according
to the norms given ,in the drawing. This should be 1 horizontal to 1
vertical in ordinary soils and 1/2 horizontal to 1 vertical in hard gravelly

-----Dr.M.C.R.H;R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 320
NEERU-MEERU

soils. Close to the foot of the hill, a mini percolation tank will have to
be constructed across the gully to store the additional inflows coming
into the gully through the C.C.T. In the absence of such a tank, it
would lead to increased erosion in the gully down below due to the
heavy flows. The design of the mini percolation tank would be the
same as described in para 2. Staggered trenches will have to be
excavated along the slope of the hill as indicated in this drawing.
Ready reckoner table giving details of earth work excavation and
costs for C.C.T. are given in table NO.3. Wherever such staggered
trenches and C.C.Ts., are executed it is seen that soil moisture in the
root zone of crops has increased on the down stream side and the
crops have withstood droughts during the Khariff period much better
than the places where these were not constructed. The catchment
area for the C.C.T. is considered for a length of about 100 meters. If
the catchmentaraa is longer suitable number of C.C.Ts. parallel to
each other will have to be constructed. It is seen that the amount of
reacharge contributed by C.C.Ts. is highly cost effective, and as such
this activity needs emphasis in the watersheds.

9. Sub-surface dams: The need for sub surface dams is brought

out separately (Annexure-III). To facilitate easy execution of this
work, type designs are prepared and are indicated in Figures 16 and
17. This work will have to be executed at a suitable place on the
down streamside of the watershed. Geo-physical surveys will have
to be conducted to determine the exact location. Excavation of trench
for the sub surface dam may be done manually adopting a trench
section. 'ln order to avoid bailing out of water and easy excavation,
this has to be done during the summer period. Puddle clay from the
nearest tank bed will have to be conveyed and filled in the trench for
a width of 0.90m. The puddle clay will have to be mixed with water
and made into plastic balls of about O.4mdiameter and deposited in
the trench and trampled with legs. On either side of the puddle clay,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 321
Neeru-Meeru
Technical Committee Report

an H.D.P.E. film of 200 microns thick may be provided to ensure that

this forms a positive blanket cut off wall. As the puddle clay wall
comes up, earth filling on the sides will have to be done, and such a
measure would not need a separate support or centering for the
puddle clay. The puddle clay wall can be terminated at a level of
0.1"5meter below the bed of the stream. On the flanks of the stream,
excavation of the trench will have to be done. Puddle clay wall with
H.D.P.E. film will have to be constructed on both the flanks also, up
to the point where hard rock level is above the bed level. Cost of
such sub surface dams for small streams may work out to about
Rs.30,OOO/-. These are highly cost effective since they facilitate
retentionof ground water and usage of the samewithin the watershed.
In order to reduce the length of the puddle clay cut off wall, site
selection may be done as shown in figure.17. in the absence of any
hillocks or steep high ground, a location with high flood margins close
to the stream may be selected. As shown in this figure, ground water
exploitation can be done all along the stream as well as in the flanks
of the stream.
10. Tanks: There are views expressed in various quarters that on
account of taking up watershed development works, it has resulted
in reduced inflows into the M.1.Tanks located on the downstream
side. Though this is true to some extent this should not automatically
lead to stoppage of watershed development works. In most of the
cases the problem is not as severe as it is made out in some quarters.
This aspect can be analyzed by dividing.the issue into three major
types:
a) tank having adequate catchment areas, which contribute
more yield (75% dependable) than what is required, by the.
tank.
b) Tank having yield from the catchment,which isjust sufficient
to meet the requirements under the tank.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 322
NEERU-MEERU

c) Tank having yield from catchments, lesser than the

•
requirements. There is no possibility for this, since the tank
would not be constructed if this were the case.
In the type (a) above the tank will not get affected by
watershed developmentworks, since there-isadditionalyield available
within the catchment of the tank. If watershed works are executed to
utilise this additional yield, there would not be any problem of affecting
the inflows into the tank; Even now there are several catchment areas
in the semi-end tropics where the 'full yields of catchment are not
exploited. In sUch cases there is no problem of effecting the tanks
when the watershed development works are executed. In the case
of type (b) tanks, any abstraction of water in the catchment area
would lead to reduction of yield into the tank. It is not preferable to
stop all watershed development activities in such type of catchments.
A policy guideline will have to be arrived in all such cases. Soil
conservation Works including gully control-works, will have tobe any
waY' executed, in any type of catchment to prevent soil erosion.
However the water spreading techniques such as mini percolation
ponds, percolation tanks, checkdarns, etc..•would be harnessing the
flows and this would Jead to lesser .flows to the ·existing tanks. In
·most of t/1e existilJg tanks, conjunctive utllizatior»of ground. water
with surface water is IJOW being practiced. Even though ·there is a
reduced. surface water yield, to the tank, this is adequately
compensated by w.ay of increase in recharge to ground water. in the
command area. Thus the farmer in,Jhe command area,' has. the
advantage of using groundwater for supplementing the surface water
flows'. He has.also got the advantage of raising a second crop with
' •• , >i4"

the increased grpurd":,,ater:,that he.would be available on.account of

recharge from the tank. The upper area farmer who owns lanos near
the ri~ge boundary and the uplands, has no such advantage. These
farmers are the' poorest of the poor and ha've'no dependable source
. of water. The lands near f'idge boundanes would be costing about 1/

---- ....... Instituteof AAdhra Pradesh----_

--·Or.I\4.C.R.H.R.O
Neeru-Meeru 323
Technical Committee Report

5th of the lands in the valleys, due to non availability of ground water
and poor fertility. It is interesting to note that these farmers are the
givers of water from their fields to the farmers in the command of
tank. Thus a giver of water to the downstream area, has no means
of utilising any water available in his area, unless the watershed
development works are carried out. It is therefore, necessary from
equity considerations, as well as development considerations, that
these farmers should have facilities to atleast use some portion of
water coming from their fields. As a rough guide, the amount of .
water that can be intercepted and used by the, upland area farmers
could be about 30% of the water resources, and to that extent the
surface water resources of the tank would get reduced. The need for
taking up watershed development works in the upper areas is more
important than enhancing or protecting the downstream use under
the tank. Thus a policy decision, is necessary to enable that 30% of
water resources are utilised for spreading techniques by interceptions
in the upland areas, even though it may reduce the surface water
yield to the tank down below. However there will be some regeneration
of surface water, and additional flow into the tank, on account of
interceptions and irrigation in the catchment area of the tank. In type
(b), most of the tanks would have been partially silted as they were
constructed several decades and centuries ago. In such cases, the
tanks would not require the full yield of the catchment and hence any
upstream interceptions under the watershed development would not
be affecting the tanks. From the foregoing it could be seen that
watershed development activities would not sertoasly affect the
functioninq of tanks in most of the cases. However the percentage of
abstraction of flow through the watershed spreading techniques may
have to be limited to say 30%, in type (b) tanks.
Thus it is necessary to,execute watershed development works
in the catchment areas of all types of tanks in the semi arid tropics.
Apart from hydrological reasons, principles of equity and eradication

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute of Andhra Pradesh-----

 324 NEERU - MEERU

of poverty, would have to be taken, as guiding principles in the

watershed development activities.

11. Diversion structures: Base (spring) flows would develop in all

the streams due to the construction of water spreading devices (mini
percolation ponds), sunken pits in gullys, soil conservation works,
raising cover crops in rainfed lands and trees in wastelands. A single
activity of sunken pits in gullys has resulted in spring flows during dry
.season in the Germalam project (MYRADA,Bangalore). These spring
flows can be diverted by constructing low cost rough stone diversion
weirs and water taken through contour canals, on either side of the
stream for irrigation purposes. This concept is followed by the Tribal
farmers in Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and Madhya Pradesh, during.the
past several decades. They are even now irrigating small extents of
lands, on either side of the stream, by diverting the spring flows. It is
interesting to note the native technology adopted by these tribal
farmers in correctly aligning the canals along a contour (with a
permitted slope) in an undulating hilly terrain, without the use of any
modern surveying instrument. However the temporary stone checks
constructedby the tribalfarmersare not accordingto the safe hydraulic
design norms..As a resultthese stone checks get breachedor washed
down during the times of medium and heavy floods. The farmers
repair them whenever a breach occurs.
The proposed diversion weirs in the watersheds will have to
be designed adopting the appropriate hydraulic norms. Figure 24
gives details of a rough 'sto~e diversion weir that can be constructed
. across streams in the watershed. The height of the rou!;jh stone
structure is limited to O.60m since it is not attempted to have.any
storage on the upstream side. The purpose of this structure is mainly
intendedto divert the low flows and spring flows availablein the stream
to the gravity canals. When medium to high floods occur, the same
will pess over the weir structure and the design has to take care of

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 325
Technical Committee Report

stability under such conditions. Main canals on either side of the

structure will have to be taken along contour, giving the required slope.
Since the command area would be limited to a small extent ef 10 to
20 hectares, a full supply depth (F.S.D.) ofO.30M would be adequate.
When low flows of one or two cusecs (about 40 LPS) occur in the
stream, such flows will have to be diverted and hence the height of
the diversion weir need not be more than 0.60m. A pipe sluice at the
sta'1ing of the canal, would be needed to control the flows through
the canal, during floods. An open head canal has the disadvantage
of flood flow entering the canal and causing breaches at vulnerable
places. 0.225m thick rough stones may be used for farming the stone
check. Upstream slope of 1:1 and down stream slope of 6 horizontal
to 1 vertical may be provided. Top width of the stone check may be
0.60m. A rock toe may be provided on the down streamside as per
the dimensions given. A 0.30m thick murram layer may be provided
for the rough stone check as indicated in the drawing. The purpose
of this layer is to arrest the silt and sand that would percolate through
rough stone check. Ultimately the rough stone check would get filled
up with river alluvium and make it less permeable. During the time of
diverting spring flows, farmers would not like any water to leak through
the stone check. The common practice is to plug upstream holes in
the roughstone packing, with brushwood clayey etc. After the passage
of a high flood, the down stream apron may get disturbed and would
assume a natural stable profile over a period of time. However if any
scours occur, in any portion of the stone check, the farmers will have
to make good by dumping and packing additional stone. To facilitate
this, required quantity of stone (about 10%) may be stacked near the
structure, on the bank. After a few years of functioning the rubble
stone check will establish a re.9ime and only some minor repairs may
be needed later on. A ready reckoner table giving quantities of
earthwork excavauon. and rough stone dry packing, for various bed
widths of streams, ranging from 2.00m to 10.00m, is prepared. With

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-"""'_---
 32!5 NEERU - MEERU

the help of Figure.23, and the ready reckoner table, the members of
Watershed Committee can easily estimate and execute the work.
The rough stone check is keyed into the stream banks on either side
for a distance of O.30m. thedetails of pipe sluice are given in the
drawing. This is a simple structure, similar to field channel outlet in
canals and it can be closed by a stone/grass/clay during floods. Cost
of roughstone diversion weir for a stream of 2.00m bed width works
out Rs.3134/-. Depending upon the availability of base flows in the
streams, it is possible to construct such low cost diversion weirs at 3
or 4places within the watershed. This type of surface flow irrigation
by gravity is the cheapest when compared to storage tanks, as it
works out to about Rs.2,500/-perhectare. Hydraulicallystable section
is provided for the stone check by providing a slope of 6 to 1 on the
.
downstream side, as against 1:1 provided by the tribal farmers.
'

i 12. Soak pits and trenches in urban areas: 'It is also necessary to
- incfease the recharqe to ground water in all the urban areas. Land
use in urban areas is different from that of the rural areas (agricultural,
crops). Most of the urban area would comprise of paved roads, built
up areas, open grounds (Play grounds, parks etc.,). The amount of
deep percolation taking place in the rural scenario predominantly
having an agricultural cover for the lands, would be appreciable.
Wherel!lsin the Urbanscenario, most of the land use, would not permit
deep percolation. Thus a predominant quantity of rainfall woeld flow
as run off. The run off occurring within residential premises can
preferably be made to percolatewithin the premises itself, by a simple
structure. FOrnormal rains there should be no flow from the premises
,to the roeds. The percolation devise within the premises will have to
be designed to store and facilitate percolation into the ground. In the
case of high precipitation, the excess water would go out of the
, premises to the roads." The run off occurring on the roads as well as
on open grounds can be collectedatsultable valley points and a big
size percolation pit can be provided there.

------' Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru
327
Technical CommIttee Report

In most of the premises, it is possible to provide a percolation

trench within the set back areas available. Even in the case of multi-
storied flats, these set back areas are available. The percolation
trenches were hitherto constructed as per the details given in
Figure.18. The trench is filled up with graded filter materialcomprising
of big size metal or stone in the bottom layer, covered by small size
metal (broken stone) and sand. This virtually behaves fike a slow
sand filter. Such filters have percolation rates ranging from 0.1 liter
per second per square meter of area to 1.5 liters per second per
square meter of area. If the inflow into these pits or trenches is at a
higher rate (usually about 15 liters per second) most of the,flow due
to rainfall runs off, would pass over the pit. Thus the graded filter
material would not facilitate recharge of the entire inflow that occurs.
There is no necessity to provide a slow sand filter and purify the
water for the purpose of recharging the water table. Actually such
purification is done by the Mother earth, through various layers of
, soil and the weathered zone, in a natural manner in the process of
recharging the water table. Also to provide this filter material, it would
add to the cost of the work without serving any useful purpose. It is
enough if the sides of the trench are reveted with rough stone and
the top of the trench provided with an R.C.jally. Water will be collected
in the trench and the stored water would gradually recharge the water
table. Detailed drawings giving the size of percolation trench, rough
stone revetment for the sides and R.C.Jally cover and silt trap 2Ir&
given in the drawings provided. Most of the run off from the premises
would flow over the filter and hence such a type of construction is not
recommended. Also this type of work, is COstlydue to providing a
graded filter material. Instead, a percolation trench as shown in
Figure.19 may be constructed, Th'iscan be about 1,00m away from
the compoundwall or the main building wall, as shown in the drawing.
Depth of the pit can be one meter and clear width 0.80 M. In order to
retain the vertical sides of the trench, rough stone dry rubble packing,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 328
NEERU - MEERU

0.225m thick may be provided for all the four sides of the trench as
shown in the drawing. The trench may be covered with perforated
R.e. jally, the details of which are given in the drawing. A small silt
trap of 0.60Mx 0.60 M and 0.30M depth may be provided for collecting
the inflow and admitting the same into the trench. This silt trap would
arrest flow of silt into the trench and is thereforeessential. Silt collected
in the trap can be periodically removed, and used for gardening. A
trench of 2.00m length would be needed for every 100 Sqm of flat
area, for the rain fall conditions in the Semi arid tropics. During
continuous heavy rains the rainwaterwouldbe overflowing the trench,
and as such a free passage from the trench to the road would be
needed. The trench should not have any bed slope. If the ground is
having a slope and if a long trench is needed, it can be divided into
compartments keeping each at an uniform level.

13. Public soak pits: As discussed above there is a need to provide

.separate soak pits of bigger size to collect the rainfall run-off occurring
on streets and open grounds. These pits will have to be located at
suitable places where the flow can be gathered by gravity. The design
of the pit may be as shown in Figure.20. For every 10 hectares of
urban area, a soak pit of size 22mx22mx6m depth would be needed
to facilitatecollectionof run off and providefor deep percolation. These
pits can be constructed in open areas, parks, play grounds,
Government lands, public Offices etc. If sufficient ground area is not
available, smaller pits can be constructed at more number of places
to facilitate recharge. A silt trap as shown in the drawing will have to
be provided to prevent silting of the pit. Since this pit would be of the
open type, a small parapet wall would be needed all-round the pit, to
prevent accidental falls. Over flowing water from such pits, will have
to be collected and lead to the natural drains and stream course
within the urban area.
By increasing the recharge through soak trenches and

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 329
Technical Committee Report

common pits it is possible to bring the water table level to 2.00m

below the ground level in the urban areas. This would enable
availability of adequate ground water for the usage in urban areas
including non-drinking purposes. The municipal treated water supply
can be exclusively used for drinking purposes. In order to prevent
the ground water flow during the dry period, there would be aneed to
construct a sub surface dam across the main streams in the urban
areas. The design of the same would be on similar lines. as described
earlier in the watershed programme.
14. Increasing recharge in heavily silted tanks: Some of the
: _.. . .
percolation tanks constructed about two decades back are silted
appreciably, arid this has resulted in reduction of recharge. Cases
were observed where the evaporation losses of the water body or
more than the percolated water. It is therefore necessary to provide
for quick deep percolation within the tank bed and minimize the
evaporation losses through the water body by minimising the storage
period. If the period of storage is reduced, there will be lesser
evaporation losses and this can happen when the deep percolation
is faster. To facilitate quicker deep percolation, a trench as shown in
the Figure.22 may be provided within the tank bed. This would be a
longitudinal trench parallel to the tank bund, excavated at a minimum'
distance of 5 H (where H is the height of the bund). The depth of the
trench can be H/2 and the bottom width of the trench can be 1.00m.
the side slopes of the trench can be % to 1 or 1 to 1 depending upon
the type of the soils met with. There is no necessity to fill the trench
with any material, stone, broken metal etc., since the same has no
additional purpose in facilitating deep percolation. Over a period of
time, this trench also may get silted up layer by layer starting from
the bottom of the trench. Even under such siltation, there will still be
seepage through the sides of the trench which in turn would facilitate
deep percolation to water t~ble~ However if the siltation occurs upto
half the depth of the trench', there would be a need for desilting the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 330
NEERU-MEERU

trench. The desilted materialcan be used by the farmers for increasing

fertility of their lands and if there is no such use, It can be deposited
on the top of the bund or on the down stream side of the bund. This
soil would facilitate good growth of grass over the bund, which in turn
would prevent erosion due to rains.

15. Summary of Recommendations:To sum up, the following are

the important works that will have to be. executed, as per the
technologies developed in the" Integrated Four Waters Concept," in
order that maximum benefits are derived in the watershed. This
technology is generally applicable to the Forest areas also.
Rain Water:
•
• Ploughing should be done on rainfed lands along contour (across
slope).
• Contour bunds should be formed strictlyalong contours,wherever
farmers agree. Where farmers do not prefer this, and want only
boundary bunds, they may be formed adopting the technology
now given.
• Instead of rough stone rubble dams for gully checks.sunken gully
pits with silt traps may be provided as per the technology given.
However rouble dams may be co~structed in special situations,
where it is possible to provide the same at close intervals such
that the top (crest) level of downstream rubble dam is at the apron
level of the upstream rubble dam. A slight slope of 1% can be
permitted in these levels.
• Mini percolation tank may be constructed at the head of gully,
very near the foot of the hill as per technology given. Such
tanks are mandatory at the places where CCT joins a gully and
on the upstream side of sunken pits in gullys, (where the
catchment area is about 1Oha.)
• Continuous contour trenches (CCTs) should be taken on the

-----Or.M.CR.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh------,.-
Neeru-Meeru 331
Technical Comrnitt&e Report

contour without any slope and should be terminated at a near by

gully without any breaks (septas) or gaps, and the details of end
(

connection, cross section, spacing etc., should be as given.

Soil Moisture:
• Cover crops have to be raised on all rainfedlands and the mulched
material incorporated in the soils as specified. This not only
increases ~ rainfed agricultural productivity three fold, but also
Significantly increases the recharge to ground water.
• Trees should be planted in all wastelands, uncultivated lands,
Forest areas with in the watershed and intermixed with scrub
growth as per details given.

Ground Water:
• Mini Percolation tank on first order streams and dips may be
con~'tNcted at the rate of about 30 per watershed of 500ha, as
per technical details given.
• There is no necessity to construct a high cost cement based
check dam structure, across the main stream of the watershed,
I
(which is invariably located in a major valley), as a routine work,
unless there is a special need for the same in the upland recharge
areas, and its necessity is well established hydrogeologically.
• Circular dug wells may be constructed in the weathe~edzone, to
exploit the grourd water made available through-the recharge
works and the full irrigation requirement will have to be met
" ,
through open dug wells. Usage of bore wells in hard rock areas
may be limited fur
the purposes mentioned above.
• Oesilting of silted percolation tanks, may be done as per details
given. Oesilting of irrigation tanks should not be done for the
purpose of increa5iQgthe:--lacha.rge,since the stored water will
have to be conae~.for,irrlgation purposes.
~
• Subsurface dam at a suitable plaee on tbe downstream side of
.!',,:

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Inilitu&e_Qff\ndhra
Pr~sh-----

of:\.
332 NEERU-MEERU
"

watershed (to conserve ground water), may be constructed as

per the details given. This would prevent flow of ground water
through the streambed to the downstream side of watershed.
• Percolation tanks second and third order streams may be
constructed in select cases where there is specific need, following
the guidelines given in the irrigationdepartment. Rechargetrench
may be exacted for silted percolation tanks, wherever needed
(as given in the Minor Irrigation guidelines)

Surface Water:-
• Oesilting in the live storage area of tanks for the purpose of
additional storage (and'additional irrigation) is not cost effective.
However this can be done in select cases where farmers are
keen to use the silt for their rainfed lands. A ceiling of about
RS.1.00 lakh per watershed may be considered for excavation
costs in the initial stages of the programme. When the farmers
see the benefits they would excavate silt during the subsequent
years at their own cost.
• Water courses (or drainage lines) conveying catchment area run
off into the tanks need no improvements, since the flow will any
how find its way into the tank. However supply channel from a
major stream diversion work, feeding 'System' tanks, would need
desilting or improvements and this work can be done under
irrigation component. If it is contemplated to divert the.run off
coming from the neighbouring catchment areas (or slopes of
adjacent hills), the same can be done in this programme. Such
courses will have to be designed properly with inlet and FSL
outlets, in order that these channels'are sustainable in the long
run. The surplus weir of the tank will have to be improved to
facilitate discharge of additionalflood flows or otherwise the tanks
would get breached (as already observed in some cases).

---__;_-Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Neeru-Meeru 333
Technical Committee Report

• Low cost diversion structures may be constructed to divert the

base flows in streams for irrigation purposes as per details given.
General:
• Topographic survey for the watershed may be done and contour
map prepared, to facilitate appropriate planning of works and
this should be the first technical activity in the watershed.
• Insteadof using hydraulic excavators- back hoes, (wronglycalled
as Poclains I Proclines, Proclainers, in Andhra Pradesh), for
excavation of earthwork, manual labour (through S.H.Gs) may
be deployed.
Urban Areas:
• Soak trench may be constructed for all individual premises as
per the design given. There is no need to use any filter material
inside the trench.
• Common soak pit may be constructed in public places for every
10ha of catchment area, as per the details given.

ANNEXURE-I
SOIL MOISTURE
1.Soil moisture management: Soil moisture is available in the
unsaturated zone i.e. the zone above the water table level. This
zone consists of root zone of crops and the deeper layers, which
support tree growth. The unsaturated zone can retain moisture upto
its field capacity, (where water is held under capillary suspension),
and any further increase in water content will gravitate below and
recharges the ground water. In the red soil areas of drought prone
regions it is estimated that about 60% of annual rainfall would be
stored in the unsaturated zone and .Iater lost through evaporation
and transpiration. This would vary fr~m place to place, depending
upon the porosity of soils, depth of unsaturated zone, rate of

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 334 NEERU - MEERU

precipitation, annual raintaHetc. The balance 40% of rainfall would

be in the shapes of ground water and surface water. Apart from any
percentages, it has to be appreciated that a substantial or major
quantity of rainfall is held as soil moisture. This component is almost
fully consumed during the cycle of a year through transpiration of
crops (and trees) and evaporation. Throughout the year, evaporation
of soil moisture takes place and the same is more significant during
dry whether, droughts and summer. If a management practice or
technical intervention can be devised to reduce the soil moisture
evaporation, it would be a great leap forward'in conserving water
resources and is therefore extremely desirable. Is this possible?
The answer is fortunately Yes! If mulching is done on all the rainfed
agriculturallands during the dry period, itwill reducethe direct radiation
of Sun on the soils, and thus soil moistureevaporationwill get reduced.
This is practically not possiblesince the requiredmulch materialwould
not be available. As an alternative, cover crops can be grown on all
the rainfed lands. Details of these crops are given in the subsequent
paras. Seeds of cover crops may be dibbled in the soil, just before
the harvest of Rabi crop, when there is still some moisture in the soil.
,The germinated seed will spread on the ground and partly cover the
I
(iiSOilduring the first year. The crop would survive during the winter
I. upto February and starts withering in March.
During the early rains in Mayor June, the cover crop would
be implanted into the soils when the firs,tploughing is done. This
operation improves the soil structure and the crumbly quality would
retain more moisture than before. Also the soil fertility increases due
to organic green manuring (details discussed later).. During the
second year of rai~ing the cover crop, the leafy cover would last tUi
April, due to the increased fertility and moisture holding capacity.
During the third year, ,he cover crop would last till the month of May,
afJdwould cover the entireground area. The soil Moistureevaporation
will drastically get reduced from the third year onwards. Even of the

-----Dr.t.1.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradash-----
Neeru-Meeru 335
Technical CormIItIiee Report

cover crop withers, There will still be some shade to reduce the soil
evaporation. Another advantage in this type of cover crop is that soil
erosion is reduced (even totally prevented) when the first rains occur
in the month of May/June. When there is a vegetative cover on the
soils the beating action of raindrops and dislodging of soil particles is
grevented. Thus soil erosion is prevented right at the source where
it occurs. This is exactly the phenomenonhappeningin a well-wooded
forest. The under growth, dead leaf cover, creepers etc would prevent
'soil moisture evaporation and soil erosion. Due to conservation of
soil moisture more' rainwater will recharge the water table. The
increased ground water levels would make ground water flow as
surface water in the valleys. Thus many of the forest streams will
have good base flows even during the dry season. In this cover crop
technology, attempt is made to imitate the Nature (a natural forest)
for increasing the recharge to ground water and preventing soil
erosion. The streams flowing through a well-wooded forest, will have
clear water due to practically no soil erosion. The same thing is
possible of the cover crop technology is adopted in the watersheds.
The farmer also gets the advantage of soil fertility equal to
Rs.2,500/- per hectare of equivalent chemical fertiliser cost. Oft
account of this, as well as the increased organic carbon and microbial
activity, the farmer will be able to increasethe Kharif rainfedproduction
to three times the previous figures, for the same agronomic practices.
Another advantage is the facility to withstand a.drought spell of 25
days during the Kharif period. It is a common observation that in
many parts of semiarid tropics of India drought spells of 15 days to
30 days occur during the Kharif period. Crops suffer damage during
such periods. The increased moisture holding capacity of soils,
resulting out of soil structure improvement (due to green manure),
will enable crops to withstand the drought periods. Thus the cover
crops would also enable the farmers to obtain assured yielqs during
the Kharif periods. The cover crops would therefore be'nefit the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute·ofAndhraPradesh-----
336 NEERU - MEERU

farmers as well as increase the recharge to ground water in a

significant manner.
Reducing the soil moisture evaporation is a very crucial issue
in the watershed development process. Even if 50% of the existing
soil moisture evaporation is saved in the sernl arid tropics, it would
be quite huge, since it would almost be equal to the surface and
ground water resources put together in that area. Soil moisture thus
conserved would be available for crops and trees. In view of this,
there would be lesser demand for irrigation. Surface and ground
water resources can be conserved and used for irrigating greater
extents of areas. It is estimated that soil moisture evaporation would
be reduced by 50% as per trials conducted elsewhere in the world
(Central America). However these observations will have to be
actually conducted in the drought prone areas, watershed wise 'in
order to obtain the realistic figures. Another major advantage is the
increase in recharge to ground water. Since there will be some
moisture in the soil, lesser quantity of water is needed than before, to
being the Soil to field capacity and there will be more percolation to
the water table. When the soil is dry, large quantity of water is needed
to bring the soil to the field capacity and hence the recharge to ground
water will be less.
2.Methodology: As discussed earlier, the extent of watershed that
is programmed to be developed would be about 500 ha., and let the
following be the distribution of major land uses.
Ha.

a) Uncultivable areas (rock out crops etc.) 16

b) Waste lands cultivable 50
c) BuNtup areas, roads 4
d) Rainfed Agriculture 400

-..,...---Dr.M.C.R.H.RD Instituteof Andhra

Pradesh-----
, Neeru-Meeru 337
Technical Committee Report

e) Irrigated agriculture and water bodies 30

Total: 500

Soil moisture management will have to be done for items 'b'

(50 ha) and 'd' (400 ha). All the cultivable waste lands, banjar lands
within the watershed and neighbouring denuded forests if any will
have to be planted with trees. There should be a good mix of various
types of trees such as fruit bearing, fuel wood, leguminous (green
manure) and other local varieties which grow well for those climatic
and soil conditions. Exotic species will have to be avoided. Fast
growing woody shrubs should be planted in between the trees. The
under growth and leaf litter will not only prevent soil erosion but
reduces the soil moisture evaporation especially in summer. All the
unproductive lands under farmers' possession should be, similarly
treated. A good amount of extension work would be needed and
W.As will have to be actively involved in this regard. The second
step would be to treat the rainfed agricultural lands (400 ha) with an
appropriate technology. Raising Green Manure or cover crops in
these lands is an activity, which has to be taken up in the entire dry
land (Rainfed agricultural lands). Details of forage cover crops are
given in the subsequent paragraphs. It would be possible to increase
the irrigated area by about 100 Ha and this would be possible due to
increased ground water availability and base (surface) flows within
the watershed. These aspects are discussed in the subsequent paras.
-, '

3.lmprovement of Soil Fertility in Rainfed Agriculture: Green

Manure Cover Crops (CCs) are suitable for the climatic anosou
conditions in the drought prone areas. There are traditional practices
of intercropping these legumeswith sorghum (Jowar) or millet in some
areas. Some of the legumes like lablab beans are highly drought
resistant. Raising CCs on raiilfed lands is not only beneficial for
improving agricultural soils, but also gives benefits of additional income
to small farmers. The practices are easy to understand and require

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
338 NEERU • MEERU

little or no extra labour' and financial costs. Wsing green manure

legumes has resulted in fixing the equivatent'N' of 150kgslha. (costing
about Rs.2500/ha in the form of chemical fertiliser). Chemical
Fertilisers are not eco friendly and if used extensively, would deqrade
the soils in the iong run. Green manure crops have the additional
advantages of fixing organic carbon into the soil and smotheringweed
growth. The release of 'N' take place slowly unlike the chemical
fertilisers.
4.Advantages of cover crops for farmers: The already proven
advanteges -of cover crops are incredibly numerous.
CCs !IrQcapable of adding to the soil up to (and occasionally
more than) 50 Tlha (green weight) of organic matter to the soil during
each.application. This organic matter has, in tum, a whole series of
positive effects on the soil, such as improving its water-hOlding
capacity, nutrient content, nutrient balance, friabUityand pH. This is
. in addition to prevention of soil moisture evaporation during summer
& non crop periods. The farmers should not expect any cash returns
or produce from the cover crops. He has to dibble the seed and
almost forget about it later on. This organic matter is also adding
significant quantities of organic carbon and nitrogen to the farming
systems.
The addition of organic matter and N to the soHhas, in dozens
of programI, increased soil fertility significantly. As a result, programs
in Brazil and throughout Central America now speak not just of "So~
Conservation"but of "Soil Restoration"or "Soil moistureconservation".
These additions of organic matter and N are achieved with
no transportation costs. They are produced right in the field, and are
already well..;distributed.
CCs require no capital outlay whatsoever, once the farmer
has purchased his first handful of seed.
CCs can also be an important factor in reducing weed control

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh.....,...----
Neeru-Meeru 339
Technical Committee Report

costs, when used as a mulch. This factor is especially important in

drought prone areas where weeding is 'a major limiting factor to
agricultural production in general.
Thus, these crops cannot only reduce the use of chemical
fertilizer, but they can also reduce or eliminate the use of herbicides.
They may, in some cases, also reduce the need for other chemical
inputs. The velvet bean, for instance, has also been proven to be a
wide-spectrum natural nematicide, while sunhemp can. be used to
control grain storage pests.
The soil cover provided by many GGs can be very important
for soil conservation. A careful study has shown that farmers
cultivating monocropped maize on 35% slopes with a 2,000 mm
rainfall in northern Honduras are actually increasing the productivity
of their soil year by year, even without any soil conservation practices,
(except for the fact that the soil is covered by velvet bean ten months
in the year). This experience is very much relevant in the case of
drought prone areas where the soil erosion is a serious problem.
The experience of thousands of farmers in southern Brazil
and on the north coast of Honduras shows that after four or five years
of heavy applications of organic matter to even heavily deteriorated
soil, farmers can move to zero-till systems that retain high levels of
productivity. Farmers in northern Honduras, without using chemical
fertilizer, maintain yields of monocropped, non-rotated maize of OVer
3 T/Ha, and achieve yields of 4 T/ha, with small applications of
chemical fertilizer. In Brazil, farmers using rotation and medium
application of chemical fertilizer along with velvet beans regularly
harvest 7 to 8 T/ha of maize without having tilled the soil in over five
years .. Weeding and ploughing are the two heavy operations.
Each of these advantages should be analyzed and weighed
when we choose GGs and when we promote them. It is quite
infrequent that farmers are primarily attracted by the GGs ability to

--...;_--Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 340 NEERU - MEERU

increase soil fertility, or reduce soil moisture evaporation. Much more

commonly,farmers are most motivatedby the CCs potentialfor human
consumption (usuallythe most importantadvantage), its weed-control
capabilities,
.
or the possibility
.
of no
.
longer having to till the soil. If this
is the case, the CCs should be promotedon the basis of these factors,
not that-of increasing soil fertility or productivity or reduction of soil
moisture evaporation (which though true,will not catch the imagination
of farmers initially). But in spite of all these advantapes, the use of
CCs by farmers continues to be unsatisfactory and hence special
steps are needed.
-- '
5. Promising Species of Cover Crops: 5.1 For low elevations (0 to
1500 rn) and w.armweather, velvet bean is one of the best biomass
producers, one of the best 'N' fixers (150 kgs/ha) and one of the bes.t
weed suppressors. It grows well in very poor soils and resists both
droughts and heavy rains quite well (as long as drainage is fairly
.good). It is an aggressive climber. Although the velvet bean is very
frequently the best legume to control major weed pests, it is also
probably true thatonce it has achieved better soilfertility (after three
to five years), farmers should switch over to lablab beans or other
legume,
5.2. Lablab bean has a whole sedes of advantages over the
velvet bean. It is edible and good tasting without any special
processing. It grows just as well as the velvet bean and produces
nearly as much biomass. It is the most palatable for animals of all
the CCs we use, witfl a 23% protein content. Lablab beans are
perenniafs, often staying green and producing seeds through four to
five months of drought; and it is significantly rnore drouqht-tolerant
than the velvet bean. Nevertheless, in some cases the lablab bean
has been fairly demanding of good soil fertility and in others has
suffered insectattacks.sufficientlyheavy to Significantlyretard biomass
production.

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D
,.,
Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-------
 Neeru-Meeru 341
Technical CommIttee Report

5.3 Jackbeans: This is by,far the most hardy of the known

ecs, the jackbeanwill grow where either the climateis so droughty
?r the Soilsso poor that virtually nothing else will grow. It fixes more
.N than the velvet bean (230 kgslha) and is perennial. And the tender
pods can be eaten like stringbeans. Further more, these are both
bushy and climbing varieties, althoughall the bushy varieties.weknow
of, ~o some climbing when grown under shade. In some areas of
Hunduras,farmers who startedwith velvet bean intercroppedin maize
are now converting to jackbeans in orderto avoid the prunklQwork.
However jackbeans produce about 10% less biomass than velvet
bean and do not control weeds well. Also, jackbean plants and seeds
are not palatable for animals, nor is it advisable to use jackbean for
human consumption, unless heavily boiled.:
5.4. From the foregoing discussion it is-clear that activities
related to raising green manure cover crops, mulching etc. will have
to be practiced by all the farmers in the watershedareas. This requires
a good amount of training, persuasion and extension methods.to be
adopted. These activities should be preceded before taking up any
execution of construction works within the watershed area. It is seen
that there.ls no such activity in any of the watershed development
. programmes. In order to effectively implement these activities on
the field, active involvement of farmers and W.As should be forth
coming in an abundant.measure. Training the farmers will play an
important role in this direction. Mere spending of hundreds of crores
,of rupees on constructionworks will alone, not give the desired results.
After having discussed briefly the two waters, i.e., rain water and soil
.moisture, letus discuss the management of the third water - Ground
water:

6.SUMMARY: A perusalof the total water balance studies conducted

in the lagro climatic zones of Andhra Pradesh State indicates that
65.8% to 71.6% of rain fall is lostthrough transpiratiOhand evaporation
from the soils. A great portion of the soil moisture evaporation takes

--....,._--Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
342 NEERU • MEERU

place during the non-rainy period from October to May when there is
no crop on the lands. This evaporation can be reduced by pro',(iding
suitable agro based cover on the rain fed lands, during the period
from October to May. This can be done in a natural way by providing
cover crops in all the rain fed lands. The seeds (velvet bean or lab
lab bean) can be dibbled into the soil during the end of the rain fed
crop period, just before harvest. The seed will germinate due to the
residual moisture in the soil and cover the land partially upto the
month of February during the first year. When this is implanted into
the soil during the ploughing operations conducted in the month of
June, the moisture holding capacity of the soil, as well as fertility will
increase and the cover crop will survive upto end of March during the
second year. During the 3m and 4th years, the cover crop will spread
the entire area of the land and survive upto the month of May. The
soil fertility that will be built up, due to growing this green manure
cover crop would work out to a benefitof Rs.2,500/-per hectare.(during
the third year), when calculated on the basis of equivalent cost of
chemical fertilizers. Due to this high fertility in soils the farmers can
increase the rain fed crop productivity by 3 fold through better
agronomic practices. Also there will be a better facility to withstand a
drought spell of duration of 25 days during the Khariff period, due to
the increased moisture holding capacity of soils (due to crumply
structure of soil) resulting out of enriching with green manure. Due
to covering the land with a green crop the soil moisture evaporation
is reduced. This is similar to what usually happens in a well-wooded
forest. It is possible to save ablaut20% of water, through thereduction
of soil moisture evaporation.This means,that the rechargecomponent
to ground water can be increased by this extent of 20%. Thus with
no extra structural cost it is possibleto enhancethe rechargeto ground
water by about 20% if this is practiced in all the watersheds. To
facilitatethis, seed will have to be procuredand suppliedto the farmers
during the next Khariff period.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Neeru-Meeru
343
Technical Committee Report

ANNEXURE-II

Old Continuous Contour Trenches (C.C.Ts): It is advisable to take

.up the rectification works, where defects were observed during the
implementation of the earlier programmes on priority. Many of the
Contour trenches were excavated with machinery, keeping vertical
sides, for the cut section. Manual labour will have to be engaged for
easing the side slopes to one horizontal and one vertical in thecase
of ordinary soils, and half horizontal to one vertical, in Hard Gravelly
soils. In many cases it is seen that the excavated soil is,kept close
to the vertical cut trench section. In such cases the spoil (excavated
earth) will have to be re-handled and deposited providing a clear
.margin of one meter berm from the cut section. In some cases the
C.C.T. is not continuous. Gaps (Chaptas) were given in order to
accommodate for difference in levels due to site conditions. Such
gaps are not desirable since this will lead to erosion on the
downstream side when the trenches getfilled and overflow. ttls
necessary to connect the C.C.T. to the nearby gully, through a rough
stone spill. However this would result in, increased flow in Gullies
than before. As such a mini percolation pond will have to be
constructed on the down stream side immediately below the joining
of C.C.T. Detailed drawings and guidelines have been prepared for
enabling field officers to follow the above technical details.

ANNEXURE-III
Sub-surface Dams: The increased recharge of ground water
achieved through the various recharge works, will have to be
conserved and used within the watershed. Even if the ground water
is not pumped, the water table levels would go down on account of
the ground water flowing out of the watershed. Such flows deplete
the watertable levels predominantlyduringthe dry season. To prevent
this flow and conserve the ground water within the watershed, a
subsurface dam on the downstream side of the watershed would be

_____ Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstitute
of AndhraPradeshl--""---
 344
NEERU - MEERU

necessary. In the downstream regions of the main stream of the

watershed, there would be possibilities to have valley fills or alluvial
streambeds. It.islikely that the depth of alluvium may be 10m. During.
the rainy season, these alluvial beds would be saturated and any
rainfall run off coming from the catchment would cause surface flows
in the stream. During the post rainy period, there may not be any
surface run off, and the base flow if any is likely to disappear by
December. During the dry season from January to May, there would
be flow of ground water to the downstream side, influenced by the
.ground water gradient (transmissibility of the aquifer). On account of
this, the ground water levels within the stream bed alluvium, would
fall down, and the s~me would not be available for usage within the
Watershed. It is in this context, subsurface dams would be useful in
storing.ground water (creating a sanctuary) and preventlnq the loss
of ground water from the watershed Fig.16, 17 show sketches of
typical L.S.'of stream bed and plan where it is possible to construct a
subsurface dam. The subsurface dam shown in the sketch would
preserve the ground water sanctuary on the upstream side of the
structure and prevents its draining to the downstream side during the
SlJfI'M'I1er period. Without the sub surface dam, the water table would

be at the rock level of the streambed, or even below. The-&Ilbsurface

dams will have to be constructed in the pervious alluvial zone upto
the impervious zone of clay or hard sheet rock. In most of the drought
prone areas, sheet rock would be available within about 10m below
the bed of the stream. In order to economize the.work, it would be
preferable to locate the same in a gorge site, in order that the length
of the structure would be a minimum. However the dMl will have to
be extended on to the flanks for.sufficient length, on either side, till it'
strikes the impervious strata at a level corresponding to the bed level
of the stream. This is with a view to ensure that the ground water
may not out-flank the structure and flow towards the downstream
side. The sub surface dam may be of the type of a positive cut off

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D lnstitute
ofAndhr,a
Prade.sh-----
 Neeru-Meeru 345
. Technical Committee Report

wall buried within the riverbed. It can be lined on either side with
HOPE film. To facilitate placing this diaphragm puddle clay wall, the
work may· be executed during the summer period when the water
table would be the lowest. .A simple trench may be excavated in the
alluvium upto hard rock level. Disintegrated rock and loose formations
of rock may further be excavated for a width of 1.5m (l.e.the puddle
clay wall width portion). After this excavatk>nis completed, puddle
clay and HOPE Film may be placed in position. As the clay wall
comes up, the sides of trench may be filled with the excavated
material. This is necessary since the puddle clay wall would need
the back fill to remain in position. Cost of sub surface dam, in terms
of per hectare irrigation,would be about 114th of a conventionalground
water work. This is therefore highly cost effective. Wells can be
. located all along the streambed as shown in Sketch Fig. 17, on the
upstream side of the diaphragm wall. Depending upon the length of
streambed, bed slope of stream, more than one sub surface dam
can be constructed at different locations alQng the stream. The
downstream area of a subsurface dam would be deprived of ground
water flow from the upstream side. Hence a subsurface dam would
be necess8:ryfor the downstream area, to conserve the groun~ water
there. Thus a series of subsurface stOragereservoirs can be created
in the alluvial riverbed, in the downstream areas. The ground water
in the alluvial bed can also be used for drinking purposes and would
be of a great asset during the droughts summer periods and also
during successive drought years, whenever they occur.

ANNEXURE-.IV.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE FIRSTMEETING HELD ON 14..9.2001

1. Government in G.O.Ms.No.274, dated 4.9.2001 in Panchayet Raj

& Rural Development (RD.II) Departmenthave constituted a technical
comrnlttee to examine certain technica1issues pertaining to Neeru-
Meeru programme arid suggest suitBble measures for making the

~----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
346 NEERU-MEERU

-
programme more effective. The first meeting was held on 14.9.2001
in the meeting of hall of Commissioner, Rural Development under
the Chairmanship of Sri T. Hanurnantha Rao, Engineer-in-Chief
(Retired). The.following members of the technical committee.have
attended.
1. Dr. S. Nagabhshana Rao, Director, Engineering Staff College
of India (ESCI), Hyderabad.
2. Sri E.J. Mohana Rao, Director, State Ground Water
Department, AP., Hyderabad.
3.. Sri B.S.S. Prasad, IFS, Conservator of Forest (representative
of Principal Chief Conservator of Forests) AP., Hyderabad.
4. Sri Anil C. Punetha, I.A.S., Chief Executive Officer, Water
Conservation Mission - Member Convenor.

The following persons have represented the other members.

1.. Sri T.J. Rego, Senior Scientist, Soil Science, ICRISAT (on
behalf of Dr. S.P. Wani, Programme liaison ICRISAT,
Hyderabad.
2.. Sri Ch. Ananda Reddy, Joint Director of Agriculture, (DLD)
(on behalf of Commissioner, Agriculture AP., Hyderabad)

The following special invitees have also attended the meeting.

1. Sri Sanjay Gupta, IFS, Additional Commissioner, Rural

Development.
2. Sri Y.J. Pardhasarathi, Regional Director, Central Ground
Water Board, Hyderabad.
3. Prof..R.V. Rama Rao, Principal (Retired), Andhra University
Engineering College, Visakhapatnam.
- ..
4. Dr. P.R. Reddy, Senior Scientist, Geology Division,
N.R.S.A.,Hyderabad.
5. Sri Y. Lavakusa Reddy, Chief Engineer, Minor Irrigation, AP.,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 347
Technical Committee Report

Hyderabad.
6. Dr. Venkata Swamy, Joint Director (represented on behalf of
Chief Engineer, Panchayat Raj, Hyderabad).
7. Sri Dr. M. Singa Rao, Professor, Soil Physics, ANGRAU,
Hyderabad.
An in-depth discussion was made on all the points by the
members present.
The technical committee has arrived at a number of
recommendations and the following is the gist of the same.
2. FOUR WATERS CONCEPT:- In the Neeru-Meeru meeting held
on 23.8.2001, the Water Conservation Mission has decided that the
four waters concept should be adopted in all the watersheds and that
the technical guidelines prepared for the same by Sri T. Hanumantha
Rao, Member, Water Conservation Mission should be widely
popularized. The technical committee has gone through the cost
effectiveness of the structures proposed under this concept and the
effectiveness of the same. The four waters concept includes cost
effective structures as well as several other issues pertaining to
watershed development. A detailed note of 18 pages related to
detailed plans and estimates of works was prepared in addition to 35
pages of working drawings and ready reckoner tables. These are
prepared in such a manner that the field level staff can easily follow
and execute the same. Some of the W.D.T. members can also
understand and follow the same with certain amount of guidance in
the beginning. The type designs and ready reckoner tables prepared
in this connection wouJdenable quick estimation of the cost of works
as well as preparing designs for structures. In other words, the work
of the field technical staff will get simplified, since plans and estimates
can be prepared using these type designs and ready reckoner tables.
As indicated in the note, mini percolation ponds will have to be
constructed to the extent of about 30 Nos. in each watershed of 500

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
348
NEE~U-MEERU

ha. The total cost of the same would be about RS.2.00 laf(hs (l.e.,
the average cost of one cement based checkdam). 'It is emphasized
that in lieu of checkdams these mini percolation tarlks may be
constructed to maximise,the effectiveness of recharge and also to
'benefit the upland area farmers. The cost effecUveness of the
structures and the increase iA recharge (10 to 20 times more) when
compared to a checkdam are mentioned in detail. However
checkdams can be constructedin special cases, for a specific purpose
of recharge in the upland area where percolation ponds are not
feasible. This should not be executed in a routine manner as is being
done ROW. This teci:lnologyalso includes details pertaining to contour
bunds, sunken guHypits, continuouscontour trenches, covered crops,
tree plantation, dug wells, desilting of percolation tanks; sub-surface'
dams; cost effective diversion' weirs,' topographical survey,' soak
trenches in house premises, community soak pits etc. By adoption of
this technology, it is possible (as observed elsewhere in the world) to
bring the watertable levelsfrom 18 meters belowground level (MBGL)
to 3MBGL. This is due to increase in.the recharge by 1o times more
and reducing the soil moisture evaporation. It is also possible to
increase the rain fed agricultural productivity three times more (than
the present), Alsolt will enable withstanding drought spells of 20 to
30 days during the Kharlff period. Since this technolopy is highly
effective and increases the benefits at the same cost (as is being
spent now) the committee decided that these recommendations,
drawings and ready reckonertables (35 pages) alongwith the detailed
note (18 pages) may be circulated to all the district officers for
immediate adoption. 'The Additional Commissioner, Rural
Developmenthas informedthe technical committee that immediate'
action Will betaken on this.

3. WATER AUDIT METHODOLOGY~fter a' brief discussion the

Chairman in consultatlon with the Director, State Ground Water

of AndhraPradesh-------
---...,.....-Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
 Neeru-Meeru
Tecbnical Committee Report

Department has formulated a simple format related to ground water

audit, which can easily be maintained by the village groups.. "'Phis
takes iAto account the fluctuations in water table levels as measured
in one.of the drinkingwaterbore wells locatedin the viliage. Panchayat
Raj Department has ensured that the water levels in such wells (one
ina vmage) will be recorded by their field workers once in a mooth.
The Committee suggested that recording of water levels should be
~
done in· the presence of one of the office bearers of the wstersbed
committeeor "Ulagecommitteeand the record of the same maintained
also by the Watershed Committee or v~lage group. The technical
committee has finalized the proforma and the same is enclosed
(Proforma-1). The committee desired thatthis may becommunicated
to all the distrlct officials for adoption with immediate effect. Monthly
fluctuations in water table levels would give an idea of balance of
ground water available. Details of usage of ground water will have to
be estimated (as given in the tabular statement) by the village groups.
A sense of awareness of the usage of the ground water, would enable
the farmers to work out appropriate solutions, cropping patterns, mid
season corrections etc in order that the demands would match.the
resources.
With regard to surface water, several methods of working
out the water audit were discussed in detail. Though there is no
record pertaining to storage of water for various levels in the tank, it
was thought that an indirect computation of yields (inflows) based on
rain fall-would be possible. However Panchayat Raj Department had
expressed that none of their tanks (about 70,000) have details
pertaining to catchment area. In view of this the committee felt that a
proforma for surface water audit will have to be based on an
approximate idea of storage in the tank; as per local villagers'
experience. The proforma is worked out on this basis (Proforma-2)
and the same may be communicated for adoption for all the janks.
Based on the monthly review of stora~ in the tanks, the farmers can

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof Andhr.a

Pradesh-----
350 NEERU - MEERU

decide correctionsto cropping pattern,conjunctiveutilizationof ground

water with surfacewater contingencyplan etc. With regard to ensuring
equity in distribution of surface water the committee recommends
that the cropping pattern should be the same for head end farmer as
well as tail end farmer in a given tank. The water users associations
under the tank will have to ensure that water is distributed to the tail
end, if necessary by partially cutting the supplies in the head reaches.
The water management practices cropping pattern etc as stipulated
in the Act (Water Users Association) will have to be strictly
implemented.
4. COVER CROPS: Green manuring was suggested for adoption in
all the cultivated areas. The committee felt that the technology as
given in the four waters concept namely cover crops will have to be
adopted in all the rain fed lands. This will not only provide green
manure, but also reduces the soil moisture evaporation. The soil
structure will get improved and along with it the moisture holding
capacity in the root zone will get increased. It is usual to have drought
spells of 15 to 30 days during the Khariff rainy period. Wherever
cover crops are grown and implanted in to the soil the rain fed crops
can withstand drought spell of about 25 days on account of increase
in the moisture holding capacity of the soils and better fertility. Details
of the cover crops and the methods that have to be followed during
the first, second and third years are given in the enclosed note. The
committee decided that seeds for cover crops namely velvet bean,
Lab-lab bean may be procured immediately in all the districts and
given to the farmers before 151h October, 2001. This would facilitate
the farmers to dibble the seed before the harvest of Khariff crop when
there is still some moisture in the soil. As mentioned in the note
enclosed the cover crop methodology would enrich the soil fertility
through organic matter an this would be equivalent to chemical
fertilizers amounting to a value of Rs.2S00/- per hectare.

-----Or.M.C.R.HR.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 351
Technical Committee Report

5. The Committee recommends that the following specialists may be

included as members of the technical committee.
i. Regional Director, Central Ground Water Board ,
Hyderabad.
ii. Prof. R.V. Rama Rao, Principal(Retired),Andhra University
Engineering College, Visakhapatnam.
iii. Dr. P.R. Reddy, Senior Scientist, Geology Division,
N.R.S.A.,Hyderabad.

6. AGRONOMICAL ASPECTS: The committee recommended that

improved agronomic practices pertainingto vermi culture composting,
organic farming, appropriate cropping pattern etc., which are all the
normal activities of the agricultural department will have to be
emphasized in the Neeru-Meeru Programme. The gufdelines
prepared by the Agriculture Department may be widely circulated to
the farmers groups. It is represented that there- are about 24
agricultural engineers working in the Department of Agriculture and
that they are not actively engaged in the Neeru-Meeru programme.
The committee recommends that these specialized officers may be
utilized for the implementation of the various programmes under
Neeru-Meeru.
7. TRAINING: The committee recommends that training on "four
waters concept" along with demonstration on field would be needed
for proper understanding and implementation. District level officers
can be exposed to these concepts in a session of two hours at
Hyderabad followed by a visit to a watershed nearby to illustrate the
concepts. Similarly district level programmes for P.I.As., W.D.T.
members, M.D.T. members and line departments staff will have to be
conducted. These training programmes would facilitate clarifying
issues and quick adoption of the concepts. The committee felt that
when the benefits are three times. more and recharge is 10 times
more then the earlier methods, this technology will have to be quickly

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 352
NEERU - MEERU

implemented in order to take advantage of the same. Training is an

important aspect to facilitate the same.

8. FARM PONDS: The mini percolation ponds suggested under the

'four waters concept' relate to recharge to ground water and they are
different from the farm ponds concept. The mini percolation ponds
will have to be constructed across dips, valleys and the first order
streams. Farm ponds are usually dug out pits,constructedin a farmers
holding at the lowest level in his field. This is not only to collect
rainwater run off occurring in the farmers field. The collected rainwater
will be used for giving at least one life irrigation for the cropped area.
To facilitate this, a purnpsst and pipeline would be needed. Also to
conserve the stored water in the pond and reduce the percolation
and seepage losses, the sides and bottom of the pond will have to be
suitably treated. This is essentially a water conservation structure
but not a recharge structure. The committee recommends that the
farmers can take advantage of this concept wherever it is technically
feasible and financlelty viable.

9. The committee suggested that rectifications may be carried out

in all the watersheds as per recommendations gtven by Engineering
Staff College of India in their report. It is 8"0 recommended that
Phase-IV of Neeru-Meeru programme eoml'Tlencingfrom October
2001, may be suitably formulated. adopting the above
recommend&tiOAsof the ted:lQicai. COf-'FIfTlIftee.
(T. HANUMANTHA RAO)
CHAIRMAN, TECHNICAL COMMITTEE
WATER CONSERVATION MISSION.

----..;_Or.M.CR.H.R.D.lnstitute ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 PROFORMA..;.
·z
MONTHLY GROUNDWATER AUDIT m
2
DISTRICT: RANGA REDDY- DISTRICT GEOGRAPHICAL AREA (Hectares): 1550
MANDAL: SANKARPALLY
VILLAGE: SANKARPALLY
TOTAL NO.OF AGRI<;ULTURAL PUMP SETS: 40 ·f
I:;>AILYAVERAGE QUANTITY Of WATER PUMPED PER PUMP SET @ (*) 4 LPS =0.004. cum.p.s x 3600 x 9hrs per day =
129cum/day
RAINFALL CHANGE IN
(MM) BALANCE
GROUND WATER
RECEIVED· DRAFT GROUND
STORAGE
WATER TABLE WATER
DURING THE WATER LEVEL DURING THE APPROXIMATE
FLUCTUATION SPECIFIC AVAILABLE AT
MONTH· DURING. END MONTH(W.r. t.
DURING THE YIELD THE END OF
SL OF MON:rH IN PREVIOUS
MONTH MONTH in m. FRACTION PUMPS IN !.ISE THE MONTH REMARKS
NO M BELOW MoNTH DUE TO
VILLAGE I
MANDAL
GROUND
LEVEL
(W.r:l.
PREVIOUS
MONTH)
..
(INDICATIVE)
( )
RECHARGE AND
DRAFT) in CUM QUANTITY
FOR FUTURE
UTILISATION I \

RAIN NO (+<-;) DAYS OVER DRAFT

(CoI.S x PUMPED
GAUGE IN CUM
geographical area IN CUM
(xx)
x 10x Co1.6)

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
1 MAY'2001 13.83
2 JUNE'2001 136 13.65 0.18 0.02 55800 35 20 90360 55800
3 JULY'2001 11 14.14 -0.49 0.02 -151900 35 15 67725 -96100
4 AUG'2001 147 1.3.8 0.34 0.02 w
105400 35 20 . 90300 -46500 ·01
w
 w
5 SEPT'2001 ~
6 OCT'2001
7 NOV'2001
8 DEC'2001
o
... 9 JAN'2002
3: 10 FEB'2002
o
;U 11 MAR'2002
J:: 12 APR'2002
;U
b 13 MAY'2002
S"
~
C
CD
sa.
»
::::J
a.
=r
ii.l
~ (*) AVERAGE DISCHARGE OF PUMPSET WILL HAVE TO BE ESTIMATED BY THE VILLAGE
a.
a=r GROUPS.
z
m
m
AJ
c,
s::
m
m
AJ
c
Neeru-Meeru 355
Technical Committee Report

NOTE: SPECIFIC YIELDS FOR DIFFERENT AQUIFERSTRATA

FOR EACH VILL'AGE I MANDAL WILL BE FURNISHED BY THE
STATE GROUND WATER DEAPRTMENT

(**) INDICATIVE VALUES - CHANGES ACCORDING TO

STRATIFICATION WHERE WATER TABLE OCCURS

,
(++) This includes Electrical driven pump sets of protected water
supply scheme in the village.

(xx) Indicates the difference between the previous and present

month of col.no.7. Negative figures indicate that the draft is
more than recharge and farmers will have to therefore
manage aquifer suitably.
1 SPECIFIC YIELDS OF WEATHERED ZONE RED SOIL
0.06
2 SPECIFIC YIELDS OF WEATHERED ZONE BLACK SOIL =:
0.04 TO 0.02
3. SPECIFIC YIELDS OF WEATHERED ZONE MIXED SOIL = 0.05
4. SPECIFIC YIELDS OF WEATHEREDZONE SEMI WEATHERED
/ FRACTURED ROCKS = 0.03
5. SPECIFIC YIELDS OF WEATHERED ZONE HARD ROCKS =
0.01 TO 0.005

--------Or.M.C.R.H.R.OlnstituteofAndhra Pradesh
.........
----.,..--.,..-
 PROFORMA - 2
MONTHLY SURFACE WATER AUDIT

VILLAGE: MANDAL:
DISTRICT: 1

GEOGRAPHICAL AREA OF THE VILLAGE: Hectares

NORMAL RAIN FALL: mm
SOILES IN THE CATCHMENT AREA: RED/BLACK/MIXED SOILS
A: DETAILS OF SURFACE WATER BODIES IN THE VILLAGE

TOTAL STORAGE CATCHMENT AREAIN HECT

SL NO.OF SPREAD CAPACITY AYACUT
NO TANK AREA AT ATFTLIN IN HECT
DIRECT INTERCEPT . TOTAL
FTL IN Hec. Ha.m.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
z
200 15 215 m
1 X 8 16 28 - m·

2 Y 10 20 33 300 25 325 ..
::0
c
s::
·m
m
3 ::0
c
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WOl- J\ON L a...
~OOl- .180 9 ~
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179'£ , «
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>IN''l ···· .. ·········X..············· ~O::llian" A1HlNOW

<1>
Z ·S
358 NEERU-MEERU

DRAWINGS & TABLES

..•
,"
:l
rI

,t ,.,.,
.,......_,,.....,
.;".-+•.,,-..•.,,-r-r·T, -",.....-1', "".:ar-t•.."r'I"-t-1t
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N:IH'I.~

DEPurrtNG WATER TABLE

LEveLS IN mURSHI;QS
("'OTTO~

-~--- Dr,M,C,R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh----'---
Neeru-Meeru 359
Technical Committee Report

G.l
__ J!9

UNMlUllAfI. '0'"
i--
"[' IZIj

~!!!!!'.!'~:! •.:.-.!.~~
...-------
- -~-
",!.! lPOIr... OIt,oglf'...
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- = _-.,,:.=~.==--::_---.=:--..;-=--:...-:::--== =.
- --
I4fClIlAU. UIII
,..

-- - -- - --- - ---- - -- - -- - -- - ------1 ..

IMPROVED WATER TABLE LEVELS

DUE TO WATERSHED MANAGEMENT
(NOTTOSCALE)

.<

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradeshi-----
 w
m
o

,..rr.c-n.,.t
.•11tl", Jlaift'

II) All ,orll .,. 'i....

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wa'.n tPM .1,. ,~c.It.h)_ CaplJkJrl u'f/U.':"". WQt.,
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•• flr .ilC ,fe-it.l.- 1It.I.w will .. t Irnlttor • c:a.t.don nii ,«1Icl.....
to r.c.h_t. fII'OI.JU
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z
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MOISTURE HOLDING m
:::0
CAPACITY IS SOILS C
~
m
m
:::0
C
Neeru-Meeru 361
Technical Committee Report

~----.c"-----
I.~
~--

. ""'~'AU.~'."""l'
"
I

"
I~DEX
-,

*'.U.s.'.·U. ""
UIU.U"S
"

su.ltr. ,.....
MU" ,.,,'GUno .. lI)a;D'
V.tL....Cl .D.#MiQ,Mf

MINI PERCOLATION TANKS

AND SUNKEN PITS IN
WATERSHEDS
~
(NOT TO SCALE)

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
, 362 NEERU-MEERU

.... _
+ .'uc
_ .. - (---~ .... --... -......
WAiP ,., ...

...a:t.'
~_" .'c;
~.

RECHARGE & PISCHARGE AREAS. CROSS SEqUON OF STREAM

.........i (~-.
u._. ; "'~l
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: II W.
I

REPRESENTATION OF
RECHARGE AND DISCHARGE
AREAS IN WATERSHEDS
~
(NOT TO SCALE,
VERTICLE SCALE IS EXAGGARATED

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh_----
Neeru-Meeru 363
Technical Committee Report

fig-I

A~"J;; )4,,( •• :J~ lurNDI0""

• ,,.. II .. ICC1INI

.. .. ..
I

L.S Of EARTHEN QAM

_1I1l1I A1eU,I' IrtlCJo't .11I"tr.wt

It .. Uti ....... ALI'" LI. or
CAM(1 CC"WC'IIO

".Lt. ",,'.f(."ltt
"Hr. UH..a ...

MINI PERCOLATION TANKS

L.S. OF EARTHEN DAM
(MODEL 'CALCULATION)

I'i"

._90"",
......
D«:t'-:.:ftU'.""
+--- !!l:.
~
~ __ .-
_
~ ....
tD"_~' __

I
.....

TIPICAL CROSS SECTION OF

EARTHEN BUND FOR
MINI PERCOLATION TANK IN WATER SHEDS

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 364
NEERU-MEERU

1'19-8

CI
·f ..

....
,....

.... 5.1...... fU ......

BORROW AREA SCHETCH FOR

FORMATION OF
MINI PERCOLATION TANK IN·
WATERSHEDS

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 365
Technical Committee Report

TABLE -1
READY RECKONER TABLES FOR EARTHEN DAM

_ ...._-""
(For 10 running metres for various heights of dam).

,: ":.!

I-!
-
G.L[It

._
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----.--Or.M.C.R.H.RD Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
366 NEERU-MEERU

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CROss 51:CTIQN

CONSTRUCTION OF PAVED
BYEWASHFOR
MINI PERCOLATION TANKS IN
WATERSHEDS

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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ofAndhra Pradesh-----....
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370 NEERU-MEERU

FORMATION OF BOUNDARY BUND

IN RAINFED LANDS OF
WATERSHEDS
•

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh--- __
Neeru-Meeru 371
Technical Committee Report

Fig·12

15J:CJlONAIfl EYADON
(NOT TO SCALE)

,.11').,
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Iw'" "on "ODl"[O I

1.-0..' ,
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I

FORMATION OF BOUNDARY BUND

IN RAIN FED LANDS OF
WATERSHEDS

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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Neeru-Meeru 373
Technical Committee Report

Fig-13

! SOF!!TgfeCHECKSINSTfFpGI!!I Y:S
{NOT TOSClllf!'.

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ROCK FILL DAMS (R;F.Ds.)

IN WATERSHEDS
(NOT RECOMMENDED)

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 t J ....\.. C...,. ~

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FORMATION OF SUNKEN PIT :::tJ
c
IN GULLIES "IIALAS)
IN WATERSHEDS) s::
m
m
:::tJ
C
Neeru-Meeru 375 .
Technical Committee Report

TABLE-5
SUNKE~ PIT IN GULL YS (WITH SILT TRAP)

-
MODEL CA&.CULATION: ~ anda>atarilc.llallian madefarOJiO m'" 01 sunlcenpil
"'N".tGUlp).

• ~ N....~L) a..a.IthCB UtpIII(U) ~ ~ ..

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No of..",. 1_ mil.
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I I I .r..uUrn zaua !If;1,1J1;

Tat" IlL13fJIC

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
376 NEERU-MEERU

TABLE-6
SUNKEN PIT IN GULLYS (WlniOUT SILT TRAP)
MODEL CALCULAnON,
In Nalas (GuI)a).

GIoI
I"" .
_of_. Ou6nllQeuMco5lcakUaHon IIIIldoforO.t-()'" dcoIh oI&tnkcn

......
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M'"
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r.«

.... ....
1 I 2
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a • • 7
--- • • .....~.

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lint.ilia! _""""" 00110,
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I
8Ob(SS208)
I I I

f.......-.piI l' z.-te""J.C! 4.W_ U.1iIIJ

.---....1).112.I· .f.--
, 2 2 !
Apron I 1 0.110 I O.~ 0.2.25 0.01 I
Rovelnlenl oklpe 1 1.MlI 2.«lOO.1IO D22a 0.411 !
2
TIIIng.Jar_ 2 112.>11.45.0.90 Il.22S 0.29 I

,UZCltm 211.110 '911.DIl

I 2 ~l_ftlUgt\dry
Fcr_1nIp 1 2.011110.11 1.-45 0·22&1 O~ .

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I 11.6[,11 ~811.~~ 2<W.UU
TuW RaMS.1II

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 377
Technical Committee Report

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ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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SUB·SURFACE DAM IN
WATHERSHEDS
(NOT TO SCALE).

-------Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 381
Technical Committee Report

Fig-'7

..•~ f 11'HI!R UDE

fLAM HI~L(I'IC
(NOT TO 1lCA:.E) f '1itIiFUI:,6Il.&: I..X/.1D'I ..Of! suo
SURP'"ce P""f:I "'·DUU::· D( "TWee.·
I.tou".s OR: <iJlLQCI(I )

LOCATION OF SUB-SURFACE
DAM ACROSS STREAMS IN
WATERSHEDS

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
382 NEERU - MEERU

fiIJ-18

FlilE RED WAlER

m5 FILTERBEDDESIGNISHOTRtCOt.'.M;NOEO fORRECHAROE TO
CIlOU'ID W"TER.,I£OO FLTERNO OF RAlN'IIATER18NEEDED
(INSTEAD THE DESIGN GI\IEN IN FI(l.19 Mot."r8E AOOPTBl)

(NOrTa SCALe)

RECHARGE TRENCH FILLED

WITH FILTER MATERIAL
(NOT RECOMMENDED)

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neetu-Meeru 383
Technical Committee Report

Fig.1!i

•
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RECHARGE TRENCHES
FOR RESIDENCIES

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
384 NEERU - MEERU

Fig-20

CROSS SECDON

,.-
=1...... w

k-

PE~COLATION
POND IN URBAN AREAS (ONE FOR 10 ha.)
NOT TO SCAlE)

-.;......---Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhraPradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru 385
Technical Committee Report

.•

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
386 NEERU-MEERU

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-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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ROUGH STONE DIVERSION WEIR
IN WATERSHEDS
388 NEERU-MEERU

£":;;}~~~!;:::~ ;:=~
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RECHARGE THROUGH OPEN

DUO WELLS
Oelaia or lilt trap.
_p a pipe
SeGII.: _1m

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh---
Neeru-Meeru 389
Technical Committee Report

TABLE ,,9

51
No
- =
wilt.
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10 a~ 1611.:10 3120.17
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2. Rolet rotor. T.......... octbn 1or2VOO-ZOO'
¥Q!)£b C...lCVlADQN (21'11 ~d _. 2m Clepll 01m_ anilido oIope 1:1)
~ aI •• uc=ue ..... ,. bod..uJo" 2(HoiGhI 01_. x 1.0) 12(aI:Iu kO)'lntinoidc """ cIoFol
• 2.00 ':l(Q.'~ 1.0}+2iO.3C1
- 2.00·1.za • O.G4• ).1 ..

!'ARTH WORK nCAYADpN

~.IMida_oIopft -2><1l2lcl:20"O.IIO.O.110 ·.0 &7c.un
~ck_' .2.0~o.5x'.725 '..,O.731C1.I'1\
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[)' ... ~ .... 1oo...... WldIm I..S • 0.1D cum
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- U.OO ...... xR ••2II.6~ • Re.'''M
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T~~pcriofIIWII 'l.I,.Ia.o.!IO>oO.M
~d pooIion(O/s)
-iongtIIxlCi "."U •• I I»<J)I """ ... Ci_Vlllg' ...... )Q
-l.Ih (l.hO.GO. :z.g22~)oIl ·4.23NT1
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7••I •• m
DocMt {-I (r.v-c... ) • UKO.J76.o.30 HO.43 GUllI
IoU .....
~ (in _ poo!IOr\) LS • 0.12 ....
Tnbol .5.10e....

C... -8.7. R'.21S30

/IIJd 00<11'or 0.30 .. eM ftCC pIptt. "1Ii1g ... IIl..... .11 11ruaI>.wood aM eLi,
. • (500.00 + 201.00 130..00) ·RLn7.ot

TIlTAt.coSrCl' ROUGHTSTONEDMRelONwm FOil Uo",WOT" or .... EAIoII

. • (RIA1U() • It14.:0• 737.00) . - R.. lUUO

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
390 NEERU-MEERU

ERRATA
SI.No. PaglJ No_ Read R~fRr.neaAt For

1. 68 rer Coll:Jnn3 Pcr

2. 69 ~"'f'br .., I(},linc ~I
l. 69 9(J.300ml 1I"1lne 90,3000m'
4. 70 (Rain P<J8C) Prolilrma III) lRain;:ll:lle)
(l1l.rUlul8lioll~Mly)
S. 71 .'t.\scssed l"'lilw Aoswne:]
6. 71 .~ .. I 3'"" ASGWmd
7. 76 Hardy 2"Pltulu Hardty

- ..--~
Elg-US;CUQNQAA

..
....
..
i:

( -=======

Source:- Neeru-Meeru, Technical Committee Report, Water

Conservation Mission, Government of Andhra Pradesh.
www.aplivelihoods.org/ArchivelTech-comm-Report%20(1l.doc

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 13
PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION
IN
NEERU - MEERU PROGRAMME
In the massive, vital and intimately related to farmers and
non-farmers in rural and urban centres in respect to their occupation
and survival, their participation in Neeru-Meeru is indispensable.
Though the focus is on people's participation in this programme, the
discussion that follows, embraces people's participation in all
developmentand welfare activitiesand the diverse aspects of people's
participation at the rural community level.
People's participation, in Neeru-Meeru, in a broader sense,
means their total involvement with government departments in
deciding the programmes and activities, fixing up of priorities, taking
inifiative and carrying out the projects as partners by the contributing
of their ideas, interest, material, labour and time. The. scope of
people's participation depends upon the nature of the activity, the
duration of its execution, its technical nature, the clientele it covers,
whether it is an individual project or concerns the total or some
segments of the community,its location,the amountof funds it involves
and, above all, what the development agency stipulates about the
kind of participation at different stages of activity and the quantity
and quality of participation it expects from the people.
Of late, several terms have come into development
terminology in respect to involving people for their betterment. Terms
like people's participation, popular participation, community
participation,target group partieipation,public communityparticipation,
citizen's participation and so on are in current use meaning almost

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
392 N!=ERU- MEERU

the same thing that people as partners in their development.

Participation is a comprehensive concept embracing all the facets
and phases of development beginning with people's initiative and
unto their sustaining the activity.
In respect to Neeru-Meeru programme initiated by the
Government of Andhra Pradesh, the participation of people could be
as diverse as follows:-
1. Responding to the programme, accepting the process and
. adopting technology and innovations;
2. Extending moral support;
3. Participation in decision-making, cooperating in
implementation;
4. Contribution of money, material and labour;
5. Taking initiative, mobilizing people andresources; and
6. Assuming leadership and ownership of projects.
People's physical and monetary contributions also
irrespective of the nature and degree of people's involvement in the
development prOgrammesare recognized as people's participation.
This kind of contribution ofmaterial; money and labour, rather modest
in quantitative and qualitative terms depends on the affordability on
the part ofthe people. In other words, people's economic participation
depends upon their affordability.
People's participation is a question of values, giving
importance and recognizing individuals and groups in communities
as equally important and significant in the overall development and
welfare of the total community .. People's participation is not just
complementary to what the development agency does, allocates,
spends, but it is more than that. Social participation in terms of policy
support in declslcn-rnakinq,adoptionof strategiesand implementation

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh---___;.-

 People's Participation in 393
Neeru-Meeru Programme

of development programmes depends on the social structure, social

status, traditional role expectations and role boundaries of members
in a rural community.
Participation is a process and it could be viewed as a means
to an end and in one sense as an end in itself. In a broader sense,
people's participation is beyond rural or urban development. It is
organizing, building responsive, active and democratic communities.
Participation is a learning process. It is transferring knowledge and
skills to the people while they participate in development activities. It
is a non-formal education and educationthrough activity. Participation
is a democratic process and it provides equal opportunities and
strengthens democracy.
Participation of. the clientele in Neeru-Meeru programme
throughout the life of a project will prepare people knowledge-wise
and skill-wise to sustain the activity after the development agency
withdrew from the scene of action. Participationis people's response;
a matching support from the.people and their local institutions. It is
activating dormant groups, enabling them discover their talent,
potential, capabilities, resources and strengths. It is participative
planning, development and management of development activities.
This massive movement is instrumental to people's participation.
Community organization is a means and a measure to facilitate and
. secure people's participation .: Participation is a contributing and
. stabilizing factor to community organization and its strength.
People's participation in activities that concern them, is
providing them equal opportunity to share their ideas, views, plans
and other materialand non-materialresources. Most of the developing
societies are ridden with economic and social disparities, racial, ethnic
and religious. They stand stratified with graded inequalitiesand suffer,
from social and cultural communication and restrictions. Some of
these graded social structures with privileges and denial of these

-----Dr.M:C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-.-----

 394 NEERU - MEERU

privileges are centuries and decades old. In such a social structure

wherein economic and social inequalities operate in varied degrees,
people of all segments participating in the individual and community
promotional activities would work against social and ethnic barriers
and rigidity gradually breaking down the graded compartmentalized
sanctions for and against participation. This is manifest in Neeru-
Meeru.
Enabling and encouraging the disadvantaged and the poor
people to participate in the programmes that affect them and the
local community at large is one way of empowering them. It is
legitimizing the diverse roles that may be played by different groups
standing at different distances in respect to social positions and
. interactions. People's participation is bringing people together
functionally. It is physical, psychic and emotional involvement of the
clientele with the development activity as conservation of rainwater.
It is training and organizing the community for self-reliance,
responsiveness and leadership. Process-wise, people's participation
is drawing people from periphery to the center of action, widening
their sphere of thinking, contacts and contributions. It is bringing
people from relative to total isolation to mutual interaction.
. .
OBJECTIVES OF PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION

As mentioned earlier. people's participation in Neeru-Meeru

is an educational process. It is a training for development involving
people in the projects, making them their own. It is to create a sense
of awareness, a sense of participation, a sense of belonging, a sense
of possession and ownership. It is to develop self-reliance, self-
confidence, competence and managerialcapacity. It is to train people
to take initiative, accomplish and sustain their activities. It is to build
up and reinvigorate communities and generate social action. It is to
enable people to discover their strength, increase their. aspiration
level, mobilize and channelizetheir resourcesfor productivepurposes.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 People's Participation in 395
Neeru-Meeru Programme

Participation is bringing people to the core from the periphery, to

activeness from passiveness, and to be thinkers, decision makers,
doers and implementers from acceptors.
Further, participation facilitates discovery, promotion and
encouragement and utilization of new ideas, views, talents and new
resources. It is sensitizing the people, Participation creates a sense
of individual and group worth, creating awareness of rights, duties
and obligations on the part of the members in a community. In a
larger sense, society with its culture and civilization is a product of
people's social, economic and politic participation.
Neeru-Meeru is a substantive and basic programme of rural
and urban development. It is building a new social order, wherein
every individual and group will be active participant in community-
wide activities, and thus contributing to a certain degree of
minimization in social distinctions and differences. Paradoxically,
though caste differences and social distance are apparent in the Hindu
society, there is to a larger extent smooth running of family and
community affairs at the village level.
One could go at length speaking of the objectives and effects
of people's participation. It creates esprit de corps and ensures dignity
of labour when it is labour contribution by the people. It is a means to
foster social responsibility and community ownership among the
people, and it is organizing and reorganizing groups and community.
As a human resource development, people's participation facilitates
utilizing and adopting indigenous knowledge system for new
programmes. It is a measure to understand people's interests their
nexus of relationship with other groups in the community and it also
functions as an aperture to understand the ethos, the strengths and
limitations on the part of the clientele community. Involving people in
development activities is a kind of political education.
To participate is to identifywith a cause, purpose, self-interest

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
396 NEERU - MEERU

and interest in the good of the larger community. It is to legitimize, he

or she being a member of a group, to make one's presence felt, his
or her contribution recognized. It is common interest and common
concern that bring people together fostering collective social action
especially at the grassroots level. In people's participation, in Neeru-
Me~ru activity, new grouping and new alignment emerge and the
participants are to learn new ways of adjustment, contribution and
coordination which may be termed as re-socialization or neo-
socialization.
The Neeru-Meeru project on its completion is to be taken
over and sustained by the people and so there is a need to involve
them in the project activity all through or at crucial stages, so that
there is a smooth change over of management of such projects to
the people from the development agency.
In the ultimate sense, the whole purpose and process of
people's participation is Human Resource Development (HRD) - the
development of human and inner material resources, with stimulus
and support external to the community. Unless we create this culture
of people's participation, democracy will not grow.

A Brief Account of People's Participation in the Third .

Neeru-Meeru Programme.
Right from the inception of community-rural development
programmes, the question of securing and sustaining people's
participation in several kinds of community works (roads, school
buildings, community hall, etc.) has been a major objective of
development. The response from the people and their contribution
in terms of labour, material and money has been varied depending
on the work and the community. Often the response from the people
has not been spontaneous. One~f the reasons being, tneyotd not
feel the importance of the work in which they had to participate. It
was not so close to their need. But when it comes to conservation of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of AndhraPradesh-----,,.....---
Institute
 People's Participation in 397
Neeru-Meeru Programme

water in Neeru-Meeru movement, one could see the spontaneity of

participation of the people in the programme. It is obvious to see that
you don't have to labour so much to persuade and motivate the
villagers to participate in desilting and removing of the rubber plants
andweed from irrigation tanks and supply and irrigation canals. This
activity is crucial to their livelihood and survival.
In this regard, we may have to consider another factor. In
some cases, some of the irrigation tanks, supply or feeder canals are
so large and lengthy and wide, for want of funds and lack of users'
solidarity, the farmers sometimes, have been complacent and did
not venture to go in for desilting of irrigation tanks, with deep layers
of silt and thick growth of weed. With a considerable depth of silt and
unwanted plants, in many cases, it was beyond the resources of the
farmers to undertake desilting of tanks and cleaning of the canals.
With the initiative on the part of the State government, with their
financial and technical support and leadership provided both by the
political and administrative wings, the Jalayaqna shaped itself into a
massive popular movement in action. It has also taught people,
especiallythe farmers, not to sleep over, remain complacentin respect
to keeping their sources of irrigation, etc., in dwindled and poor state.
Since, the Jalayagna is in the larger and primary interestof the people,
they will carry all the activity, of course, with the financial fillipfrom
. the government.
The Jalayagna looked like community sports each group
vying with each other in excavating and carting excavated silt from
the irrigation tanks to their fields as organic nutrition to the soil.
Desilting tanks, clearing unwanted plants in supply canals is
not new. The farmers under a particular irrigation unit once in year or
.in a couple of years used to do the desilting etc., that was sporadic
but now during the last three rounds of Jalayagna, it has been an
unthought of and unprecedented jubilant action on the part of the
people and the official machinery. One can witness hundreds of
--'-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-~---
398 NEERU - MEERU

people with tractors and excavators engaged in deepening the empty

water reservoirs in order to increase the capacity of water in these
sources as a result of rain. It looked like a celebration of a great
event.
Neeru-Meeru programme may be called a sister movement
to Janmabhoomi. People irrespective of their occupation and status,
the farmers and non-farmers are concerned with ensuring perennial
supply and availability of water for human and non-human species.
The tempo that was generated was quite remarkable and
that itself is strength and asset of the government and the people in
the rural areas. While people were engaged in work and one could
see the mirth and enthusiasm on their part. They know, that they
were doing for themselves and to one another. Another noticeable
factor was dignity of labour that manifested on the part of the rich
and the officials, since they participated in the manual work along
with the poorer segments of the community and women too.
Unprecedentedtremendous responsefrom the people.Water
as a commodity is in everybody's interest. Nobody could be indifferent
when it is a question of conserving, harvesting rainwater.
It is extremely appreciable to see how this government
programme has been converted into the mass movement
It is not a kind of new education for people but today with
some technical implications and managerial responsibility, it is a kind
of education for survival. It is becoming part of the social system;
people's participation in the management of the entire system should
become as a way of life under people's ownership and responsibility.
The Neeru - Meeru is an activity which is very intimate to the
people for their survival. Though, it is so intimate and part of their
existence left to themselves, people would have taken longer time
and sometimes they may not be in a position to go in for tractors;
excavators by themselves in order to desilt the lakes and the ponds.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
People's Participation in 399
Neeru-Meeru Programme

Now it was quite timely that the State Government has intervened for
the fillip in massive action in conservingwater. This movement Neeru-
Meeru has sensitized everybody in the community. Nobody in any
community can remain indifferentto this massive action becausewater
is in the interest of everybody. This is one basic factor which prompted
the communities to move to action in unprecedented way. As
mentioned earlier, no one can be indifferent to this programme and
postponing the activity now, would be only at a great risk. The
programme touches everybody. One cannot think of any party, any
faction, any clique any kind of communal rivalry standing in the way
of attending to this multiple ways of conserving and storing water.
This action is not only for the present but for the distant future too-,
One positive factor ensuring people's participation in
Jalayagna is people's self-interest in respect to water. The farmers'
life depends on water-rain water or ground waters. Psychologically,
farmerswould go to any extent to harvest and conserve rainwater, of
course, with technical and financial support from the Government.
Even though, water is in the self-interest of farmers in particular,
periodic awakening them is necessary.
The people in the villages spurred by the movement for water
conservation, despite their ethnic, class and occupational differences
and factions moved into massive action in desilting the irrigation tanks
and ponds and removing the so-called unwanted rubber plants both
from the irrigation tanks and supply canals. The political leaders of
the area not only inspired the people for shramadan but also set an
example by their physically getting into action.
When we see thousands of people in hundreds of villages
simultaneously engaged in Neeru-Meeru Programme, we may call
this movement historic, first of its kind anywhere in the world.
CONTRIBUTION OF PRESSAND ELECTRONICMEDIA

It is admirable that the electronic media and the print medja

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
400 . NEERU - MEERU

have played a very significant role in broadcasting over radio and

television and publishing photographs in the newspapers showing
people, both men and women, officials andnon-officials engaged in
removing the plants and the weeds from the supply canals. People
all over the state could view on the television the spontaneous activity
wherein thousands of people were involved in desilting of lakes and
ponds and that it has become contagious activity and it has created
a spirit of community competition. One could see people vying with
each other in trying to desilt irrigation tanks and clean the supply
canals ready to receive the rainwater and contain a larger quantum
of water which will ensure a longer sustained supply of water for
irrigation and for domestic purposes. Theinterestinq feature is the
people's twin objective in desilting to conserve water and use the
desilted material as organic nutrient to the soils and one could also
see a spirited competition among the farmers for the excavated earth.
This competition for earth is so high, people were to draw lots in
order to choose names that are picked up by lot who can cart the
excavated rich soil from the lakes and ponds as organic manure for
their farms.
People could watch over the television, large number of
people with tractors and excavators engaged in desilting. The
electronic medium has played a very significant role in Neeru-Meeru
programme. People could watch television how this massive activity
of desilting and removingof rubber plantsfrom the supply and irrigation
canals was carried on and this was evidence and motivation enough
to make the other people.tomove into action as mentionedelsewhere.
The desilting activity became contagious. It is not only people hearing
about the programme, not only readinq in the newspapers but the
audio-visual depiction of Neeru-Meeru Programme encouraged and
inspired the people move into action.
One could see during the day and night, small groups of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 \
People's Participationin 401
Neeru-MeeruProgramme

people in the villages discussing and comparing the Jalayagna

activities in their area and elsewhere in the State. What people saw
on the television became stories for people to share with each other.
We may say that the media have played a stupendous role in making
the Neeru-Meeru - Jalayagna an appreciable success.
Besides the press and the electronic media, Public Relations
Wing of the Government has also played an appreciable role in
reaching the people and publicizing the massive activity of desilting
of irrigation tanks, etc. It was not only giving information but also
inspiring the people to move into action.
While we speak of the specific roles that are to be performed
by departments which are involved in this massive programme of
water conservation, one crucial factor is related to water shed
.management. Managementof watershed involves multipleinstitutions
and more especially people's centred social organizations. It is not
enough that the departments in government study, plan, formulate
and continuous action plan keeping in view the primary objectives of
water conservation and the judicious use of water for multiple
purposes. People in general, and people's organizations are to play
a crucial role in watershed management. We will briefly look into the
aspects that are related to watershed management which we may
call as a social organization problem.
When we speak of people's participation, it runs down from
the state level down to the village level. People as individuals and
people as groups, associations participating in different ways
contribute to the cause of water conservation.
As we have mentioned earlier, people participating in
conserving water and the use of water is as old as existence of man
on earth. Primarily and basically it was the people who managed
water right from the beginning of man's existence. In view of several
factors, we have reached a stage where water conservation and its

-------Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
402 NEERU - MEERU

judicious use has become quite paramount. People over a period of

time have developed dependent psychology expecting the
governmenUadministrationto take care otwater conservation. Today
the conditions are changed. Even though the Government studies,
plans and takes up projects related to water conservation, people's
participation has become, as mentioned above, an indispensable
necessity. Since the initiative and the action and sometimes
technology is rather poor on the part of some segments of the rural
and urban population, the state has to move in a programme of
creating awareness in motivating and guiding people for their
participation in the diverse programmes of water conservation. Here
we will briefly look into the awareness building in respect to people's
participation in Neeru-Meeru programme.

AWARENESSBUILDING AND PEOPLE'SPARTICIPATION

• Awareness Building Measures

• Motivation
• Involvement of SHGs in Neeru-Meeru
• Social Audit Board
• Other Measures
Awareness Building Measures

Water Conservation and Utilisation Committees at district,

municipal, mandai and village levels are conducting awareness
campaigns and to motivate the local communities to execute. the
activities.
Eight posterson the implementationof Neeru-Meeru Programme
were designed with a view to bring more awareness among
stakeholders on water conservation and its sustainable utilisation.
These posters were displayed in all Gram Panchayats and Municipal
wards during 16th and 17th rounds of Janmabhoomi to propagate the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 People's Participation in 403
Neeru-Meeru Programme

concept and objective of Neeru-Meeru.

• A multimedia campaign will be launched to disseminate the
key messages of Neeru-Meeru.
• Innovative water management practices will be beamed
through mass Media.
• Kalajathas will be organised for spreading the message of
Neeru-Meeru.
• Pamphlets, posters etc. on Neeru-Meeru to be distributed.
The Water Conservation Mission has started "NEERU-
MEERU", a Newsletter, to outreach and spread the message of water
conservation and management.
Motivation

To ensure that every village is motivated about the need of

water conservation, it is proposed to take up at least one Neeru-
Meeru work in uncovered Gram Panchayats where the regular
departmentalworks are not taken up. In such Gram panchayats,while
taking up the works priority will be given for.
• Closing of tank breaches
• Supply I feeder channels
• Desilting of tanks
• Gabion structures
• Gully control works
• Small percolation tanks
• Drinking water ponds
• Recharge structures near drinking water sources etc.
Involvement of SHGsin Neeru-Meeru

• All watershed committees to meet and decide the programme

based on local priorities.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
404 NEERU - MEERU

• Water Users Associations (WUAs) and Ayacutdars

Committee to finalise the works programme for improving
the canals / tanks and for ensuring better distribution of water
during the next crop season.
• Vana Samrakshana Samithis (VSSs) to also finalise the soil
and water conservation activities in their areas of operation.
• Women Self Help Groups (SHGs) to be actively associated
in all Neeru-Meeru processes.

Other Measures
• Informationdissemination- Informationon water conservation
and management is gathered and disseminated among
departments, agencies and stakeholders.
• Technology Linkages- Water ConservationMissionfacilitates
linkages between research institutions and field agencies for
development of appropriate cost-effective technologies, field
demonstration and transfer to stake holders.
• Visits to be organized for watershed functionaries, VSS and
other Self Help Group members to other villagesfor exposure
to best practices.
• The Visit of the people from uncovered Gram Panchayats to
be organized to watersheds/other successful works taken
up under Neeru-Meeru for their motivation.
• Conventions to be organized for different stakeholders of
Neeru-Meeru at various levels (village/mandal/divisionl
districts).
• In all the institutions - Educational, Research; Industries,
Governmentoffices,AgriculturalFarms(bothgovernmentand
private) water conservation activities to be implemented.
• In individual houses - water harvesting pits and plantations
to be taken up on priority.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
People's Participation in 405
Neeru-Meeru Programme

• Local bodies like Municipalities, Gram Panchayats, Mandai

Parishadsto be involved in the entire programmefor ensuring
better results.
• Students to be sensitized by including water conservation
and management as part of the curriculum.

Factors that Enable Participatory Projects to Perform Better 1

What factors enabled the more participatory projects to

perform better? In answering this question it may be worth reiterating
some of the characteristics of semi-arid areas that distinguish them
from irrigated lands and the most favorable rainfed areas. In irrigated
areas, transferring Green Revolutiontechnologywas relatively simple
be-cause improved seeds and other inputswere well suited to millions
offarms covering huge areas. The new technology was so profitable,
with relatively little risk, that farmers were willing to abandon tradltlonal
farming systems in favor of new approaches. In less favorable rainfed
areas, on the other hand, the success of technical interventions often
depends on location-specific biophysical and socioeconomic
conditions and requires collective action. by local people. Farmers
pursue complex strategies for producing food and ear~ing their
livelihoods. New agricultural technologies usually incur opportunity
costs by competing with one or more of the many components of the
farm household economy, effectively reducing the net benefits of
project interventions (Walker and Ryan 1990). Early watershed
projects introduced technologies for conservation and production
without any input from farmers, all on the basis of trials in experiment
stations far from the villages and devoid of socioeconomicconstraints.
The lack of sustained maintenance or adoption under these
circumstances is not surprising given the difficult conditions prevailing
in many rainfed areas.
This background helps explain why people's participation is
the key feature of the best watershed projects. All projects covered

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
406 NEERU-MEERU

by this study claimed to take a participatory approach, but clearly the

term "participation" meant different things in each case. In the most
innovative and successful NGO projects, participationmeant mat.local
people were full partners in the watershed development program,
with both the authority to determine how the project would proceeds
and the responsibility to help plan, implement, and pay for it. In
government programs, on the other hand, "participation" meant
convincing local people to go along with the predetermined project
design. The findIngs of this study suggest that full participation is
critical to project success, and this should not be surprising given the
special characteristics of rainfed areas.
Some specific characteristics of participatory projects are
as follows:
They devote time and resources to social organization. The
best projects included in this study-employed staff trained in social
organization and devoted substantial time to facilitate collective action
prior to implementing watershed works. On an average more than
40 percent of the staff in the AGY, IGWDP, and NGOs were trained in
social organization; no one working in the government projects had
such training. The projects with an NGO component devoted at least
a year te organizing people prior to making watershed investments,
whereas the government-implemented projects never devoted more
than a few weeks. These projects invested in watershed works only
after villagers proved they could work collectively; this helped avoid
superficial social organization that would probably not be sustained
after project funds and staff were withdrawn.
They build each group's interests into the project. The best
NGO projects recognized that rural communities are heterogeneous,
composed of social groups with diverse, sometimes competing
interests. These groups may include people of different religions,
caste, landholding status, occupation, gender, and so forth. Some

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 People's Participation in 407
Neeru-Meeru Programme

groups are always more politically powerful than others; the less
powerful may have little or no say in decisions that affect their well-
being. Watershed development can skew benefits in favor of wealthy
people and impose burdens on poor people.Accordingly,some NGOs
in Andhra Pradesh organized communities for: watershed
development by working separately with each interest group they
could identify. They helped each group become organized and then
mediated negotiation between groups, ultimately brokering a
watershed development approach in which every interest group stood
to gain from overall project success. For example, they encouraged
participants to share benefits; they closed common lands on a
rotational basis, ensuring that some common lands remained
, available; and they made sure that the poorest people gained
employment benefits for as long as the common lands were closed.
Some participatory projects, particularly some NGOs in Maharashtra,
devoted a great deal of effort to social organization but were less
careful to address the interests of each social group. In particular,
project plans were approved not on the basis of consensus among
interest groups but by a simple vote requiring a majority of about 70
percent, depending on the project. This approach was easy to
implement in Maharashtra with its relatively homogeneous social
structure, but often it meant that the landless minority had no say in
designing the project. Shepherds typically had no say in project plans
that removed their access to traditional grazing grounds. In some.
villages the shepherds ignored the grazing bans, undermining the
project, while in other villages the grazing ban was enforced and the
shepherds suffered. In such cases equity and productivity objectives
were in conflict.
.They work with farmers to design interventions and select
technologies. In participatory projects studied inthis research, project
staff worked closely with farmers to design project interventions and
select technologies to be used. This was critically important to ensure

-------' Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute of Andhra Pradesn-e----

408 NEERU-MEERU

that beneficiaries truly wanted what the project had to offer. This
approach required relaxing the strict orientation toward achieving
physical tar-gets that most government projects pursued. And it also
meant that local people helped finance the costs of investment. Some
projects, particularly the NWDPRA and World Bank projects, still
limited the farmers' role in choosing their own technologies, and
maintenance of investments made under these projects was poor.
But most projects with an NGO component took a much more flexible
approach and had better results to show for it.
They choose the village, not the watershed, as the unit of
implementation. Since successful watershed management depends
on organizing communities to work together, the best projects used
the village as the primary project unit rather than the watershed, which
would be the logical unit in a purely technicalprogram.They reconciled
the village-based approach with the watershed orientation of the
technical plan by breaking the watershed into sub-units treated
separately within each village. In short, they managed a watershed
by assembling a set of small-scale plans, each of which made sense
at the local level, and gradually building up to a larger scale. More
technocratic projects, on the other hand, began with a master plan
for a larger watershed and tried to make local units con-form to it.
Given the complexity of rainfed agriculture in the semi-arid tropics,
poor performance under this approach should not be surprising.
They screen villages for enabling conditions. Before decidlnq
where to implement watershed development, some of the best
programs screened villagesto ensurethat they possessedgeographic
and social conditions conducive to successful watershed
development. Such an approach makes sense where budgets are
limited and not everyvillage can have a watershed project. Favorable
social conditions are particularly important given the extent to which
partiCipatoryapproaches rely on project participants to help manage
projects and make them successful. Also, one might argue that how

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 People's Participation in 409
Neeru-Meeru Programme

the NGOs and NGO/governmentcollaborativeprojectsscreenvillages

for their work is one of the most important determinants of these
projects' success. The AGY and IGWDP in Maharashtra, which
worked only in villages willing to practice shramdan, did the best job
of screening villages for favorable social conditions. Shramdan is a
good indicator of capability to undertake collective action, which can
contribute to watershed project success. These same projects, as
well as some NGO projects in Andhra Pradesh, made no investments
until the villagers had demonstrated that they could successfully
control grazing on common lands. Also, in Maharashtra NGO and
Jal Sandharan projects favored villages that had no common land,
thus eliminating an important source of conflict in designing and
implementing a watershed plan.
It is important to note, of course, that there is no single critical
factor that should be used to screen villages for project participation.
Critical social organization skills, and indicators of their presence,
may vary by location. For example, projects in Maharashtra selected
shramdan as an important prerequisite, but projects in other places
with different customs and traditions may find that other indicators
are more important.
Regarding geographic conditions, two of the most important
are the relationship between village and watershed boundaries and
the opportunities for water harvesting.
The latter is of course relevant in Maharashtra, where water
harvesting is the major project objective. Relative uniformity between
watershed and village boundaries facilitates planning and
administration. Selectingwatersheds that fall within village boundaries
is a good idea given that watershed budgets are not unlimited. They
coordinate their work. Two kindsof organizationalcoordinationappear
to be important in watershed development. First, NGOs and
govemment agencies have complementary strengths and can benefit
from collaboration. The success of the AGY and IGWDP, two projects

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

410 NEERU - MEERU

in which NGOs and government entities collaborated at every step

of the project, demonstrates that this is so. It is important to contrast
this with the approach to NGO collaboration promoted by other
projects, including the Jal Sandharshan and NWDPRA. They invited
NGOs to work for a few weeks on social organization efforts, but this
was seen as distinct from other project efforts.
Second, government watershed development efforts in India
were famous for bureaucraticdelays and turf wars that arose because
watershed activities fell under the domains of numerous departments.
Over-coming this problem is critical to raising the quality of work.
Farrington and Lobo (1997) discussed the intricate approaches taken
by the Indo-German Project to iron out interdepartmental
administrative complications. The Jal Saodharshan project, on the
other hand, appeared to suffer from continued lack of coordination
among departments. This difference may help explain the better
performance of the AGY and IGWDP, com-pared with the Jal
Sandharshan.

Implications for Common Guidelines

The good performance of the more participatory projects
bodes well for projects under the Ministry of Rural Development's
1994 guidelines, which the Ministry of Agriculture recently adopted
as-well. These guidelines are modeled after the approach taken by
some of the better NGOs, and many of the projects under the new
guidelines are implemented by NGOs. For ex-ample, the new
guidelines allow implementing agencies to devote up to a year to
social organization,they seek to promoteequity, they give local people
the flexibility to choose the technology they prefer, and they work
within the village as the unit of operation. Accordingly, there is reason
to be optimistic that projects under the new guidelines will perform
better than the old, top-down and technocratic government projects
examined in this study. In fact, some early studies suggest that the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradeSh-----

People's Participation in 411
Neeru-Meeru Programme

projects under the new Ministry of Rural Development guidelines are

performing well. Hanumantha Rao (2000) reviewed some of these
studies and found incr:eases in crop yields, in the area under cultivation
in the post-rainy season, and in the availability of fodder, emplcyrnent,
and milk production. and a reduction in migration. Two studies
reviewed were based on detailed surveys in Gujarat; they found
impressive productivity gains even though the projects had-operated
for only four to five years. Other studies in Anchra Pradesh were
less rigorous but also suggested positive results.
At the same time, these projects appear to face the same
difficulties in achieving equitable outcomes as in those examined in
this research. Amita Shah analyzed the same data as in Shah and
Memon and found that benefits were heavily skewed toward a minority
of wealthy families with irrigated land. Anil Shah found that issues of
interest to women were relatively neglected. The 1994 Ministry of
Rural Development guidelines said relatively little about equity, but
project offICials soon saw the need to, make special efforts to ensure
that the poorest people share the gains from watershed development.
In fact, the common guidelines agreed upon by the Ministry of,
Agriculture and the Ministry of Rural Development in 2000 state
explicitly that w:ays need to be found to share the benefits of watershed
development (such as water and biomass) with landless and near
landless people (India, Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperation 2000).
Unfortunately the guidelines do-not suggest 'any specific approaches
to achieve this, but equity is. clearly becoming a high priority for the
government. To be fair, to date fewif any other projects have been
-'. .
able to easily implement ways to share project benefits. This is an
important area for exploration and experimentation: Anotherimportant
concern about the new generation of participatory government projects
is that they are trying to expand projects to a huge scale, using an
approach that so far has only proven successful at a small scale.
The NGOlgovernment collaborative projects analyzed in this study

---___;,-Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute of Andhra Pradesh-----

 412
NEERU-MEERU

includedat most only a few hundredvillages,whereas the government

projectsaim to operate in thousandsof villages.The NGO/government
collaborative projects performed well in this study, but it is important
to recognize that they benefited from favorable treatment that cannot
be extended to a large scale. For example, all of their villages had
been part of previous watershed projects (as had almost all other
projects in'Maharashtra). In all of the IGWDP's sites covered under
this study, an experienced NGO had already been active in the village
for several years. The AGY, meanwhile, was a high profile project
subject to relatively frequent visits from high-ranking government
officials. As a result, project staff may have worked particularly hard,
and development funds for all kinds of activities were allocated on a
priority basis. Such special treatment will not be possible as these
projects continue to expand, so it is premature to draw conclusions
about the potential for scaling up based on the findings presented .
here. Additionally, depending on NGOs to implement projects may
work well on a small scale, but there are not enough high-quality
NGOs to do so on the vast scale of the Ministryof Rural Development's
watershed program. Building the capacity of NGOs to manage
participatorywatershed projects is an importanttask. Finally,the same
technocratic project officials who oversaw top-down approaches to
watershed developmentfor many years will play major roles in efforts
to increase the level of local participation in the new government
projects. Expecting them to rapidly transform their mindset from
supervisor to facilitator is unrealistic; it will take time and
encouragement. These comments are not meant to detract from the
good performance of the IGWDP and the AGY, but rather to sound a
note of healthy caution.
NEERU-MEERU AWARENESS CAMPAIGN INTENSIFIED

The Water Conservation Mission, in close coordination with

Mission Support Unit (MSU), has launched a massive water literacy

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
People's Participation in 413
Neeru-Meeru Programme

campaign (Neeru-Meeru) to create awareness about various aspects

of water conservation and management.
As part of the campaign, a set of posters, depicting benefits
of watershed programme, construction of simple and cost effective
water harvesting structures in rural and urban areas with the people's
participation, have been developed and displayed in nearly 27,000
gram.panchayats during the 16th and 17th round of Janmabhoomi
all over the State. Huge hoardings have been put up carrying
messages on water conservatlon (Neeru-Meeru) at all key centres of
the State.
Similarly, using the mobile media effectively more than 300
APSRTC buses shuttling between interior and remote villages of the
State have been painted with relevant messages.

bus carrying
Neeru-Meeru message in Ranga Lit hoarding displayed at busy
Reddy District Khairatabad Flyover in Hyderabad

Newsletter and brochure in English and Telugu, explaining

the genesis and philosophy of the State government - sponsored
Neeru Meeru programme,have been producedand distributedamong
various stakeholders. The Information Management wing of MSU is
plannin!;j to introduce several innovative measures to reinforce the
media campaign in the COmingmonths.
Added to this, the Hyderabad MetropolitanWater Supply and
Sewage Board has taken up a big campaign in the twin cities. The

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 414
NEERU-MEERU

board has set up huge mascots at key places appealing the citizens
to" Get Smarter- Save Water.
It is also using thousands of school children to motivate their
parents to construct rainwater-harvesting structures in their houses.

CONCLUSION

People's participation is a necessary component in rural

development. Its essence lies in the proper coordination of individual
and group efforts, in fully utilizing the potential of the local institutions,
the higher level statutory bodies, the village cooperatives, the village
school and other associate organizations such as farmers' forums,
youth clubs, women's clubs, and in proper harmonization of individual
needs with group needs and group needs with national needs.
The people's participation, its enormity and quality was quite
evident in the Neeru-Meeru Jalayagna programme. The official
machinery of the State and the political wing and the multiple media
motivated, spurred and reinforced the value of people's participation
in making developmental activities.

1. Source:- John Kerr, in collaborationwith Ganesh Pangare

and VasudhaLokur Panqare Research Report 127, InternationalFood
Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC...
http://wwwJfpri.orgipubslabstractl127Irr127.pdf

-__;'---Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 14
ACHIEVEMENTS AND PERSPECTIVE
PLAN FOR NEERU-MEERU
During 3rdRound of Neeru-Meeru in the month of May, 2001
when the severity of the Sun was so high the day's temperature
ranging from 40° - 45° C, men and women, officials and non-officials
unmindful of the scorching Sun engaged with a religious fervour in
multiple manual activities in preparing the empty water resources for
conserving rain water. One can imagine while they were working in
the hot sun, the principle idea in everybody's mind should have been
water only.
It did not take much time for the officials to persuade and
motivate the people in the villages why and how they should go in for
conserving water to meet not only the present need but in the future
also.
Works that would have taken weeks and months were
accomplished in days. People have realized the need for initiative,
motivation, commitment, community solidarity and group involvement
in.such community undertakings.
Major objectives for Achievements

Awakening people, drawing their attention for action in

Jalayagna, statewide massive organization through instituting the
committees right from the state down to the Panchayati level,
involvement of functionally related departments in planning and
execution in Neeru-Meeru programmes may be cited as tangible
achievements. The Neeru-Meeru as a movement has drawn the
attention of other states also for example Madhya Pradesh. It has

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
416 NEERU - MEERU

become a pioneer programme and as a model for other states and to

other countries too, where there is scarcity and likely scarcity of water
for irrigation and for industrial purposes. The most notable aspect in
the Jalayagna programme is the meticulous way in ~hich it has been
planned and the way in which the resources both of governmental
and people have been mobilized for simultaneous action all over the
state. The physical achievements in respect to Phase-I, II and III up
to end of May, 2001 are mentioned below. It may be noted that the
physical achievement in respect to desilting of irrigation tanks, ponds,
and clearing of rubber plants, weed from supply and irrigation canals
has been considerable. The most significant achievement is the
spontaneous response to the programme and people's massive
involvement in activities related to Jalayagna. It is an ongoing
programme. The administration and the people with their concerted
efforts have created assets in terms of conserving water and
increasing the capacity of water in irrigation tanks, ponds, etc., What
has been achieved is anasset and a kind of reservoir for the farmers
and the non-formers. It has satisfied everyone, since water is in
everybody's interest irrespective of occupation, profession, age, etc.

NEERU-MEERU PROGRESS

Since the beginning of Neeru-Meeru programme on 01-05-

2000. So far, six phases of programme implementation is completed.
The chronology and progress under different phases is given below.
The seventh phase of Neeru-Meeru Programme is under
implementation.
PHASE FROM TO
Phase-I 01-04-2000 31-10-2000
Phase-II 01-11-2000 30-04-2001
Phase-III 01-05-2001 30-09-2001

---.......;,-Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Achievements and 417
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

Phase-IV 01-10-2001 31-05-2002

Phase-V 01-06-2002 31-12-2002
Phase-VI 01-01-2003 31-05-2003
Phase-VII 01-06-2003 31-12-2003

PROGRESSUNDER NE.ERU-MEERUUPTO PHASE-VI

(01-05-2000 TO 31-05-2003)

Since the beginning of Neeru-Meeru programme from 01-.

05-2000, the following are the phase-wise, department-wise, work-
wise and district-wise, Physical, Financial and Volume achievement'
upto 31-05-2003.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
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Achievements and 419
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

DEPARTMENT-WISEPROGRESSUPTO PHASE-VI

Volume Financial
SI. Name of the Physical
{lakh (Rs. In
No. Work (Nos.)
cum.) lakhs)
1. Forest 1001550 1312.91 2791.6.65
2. Rural Development 884055 3714.70 50901
3. Panchayati Raj (PR)- 49652 313.31 4960.00
Rural Water Supply .
(RWS)
4. PR-Minor Irrigation (MI) 82320 2821.08 38038.15
5. Municipal 821053 110.76 3558.08
Administration & Urban
Development
6. Endowments 17752 8.39 379.75
7. Minor Irrigation 26690 3958.45 53632.17
8. Medium Irrigation 25202 18.81 401.05
9. Major Irrigation 140379 76.22 2763.92
10. Others 137313 642.85 10660.47
Total 3185966 12977.98 193212.00
WORK-WISE PROGRESSUPTO PHASE-VI
.
Achievement
Volume Financial
SI. Name of the Physical
(Iakh (Rs. In
No Work (Nos.)
cum.) lakhs)
1. CCT 874106 805.32 15331.17
2. Check Dams 36064 1650.67 31216.68
3. Percolation Tanks 38726 1778.14 20840.66
4. Farm Ponds 32952 247.48 3627.37

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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426 NEERU-MEERU

Innovations and Successful Experiments

Various innovations are developed for successful harvest of
rainwater in different parts of the state. The successful models are
replicated through out Andhra Pradesh.
• Chain of Tanks:- To link up the existing tank to harvest the
surplus flow of one tank into the linked tank by developing
feeder channels and strengthening tanks.
• Sub-Surface Dykes:- To arrest Sub-surface flow of water in
the rivulets to mitigate the drinking water problems.
• Recharge through dried up open wells:- To utilize the
abandoned dried up wells by diverting the run-off water from
the farmer's own land into the well for recharge.
.
• Removal of encroachment'- Encroachment removal by
trench cutting in the tank foreshoreareas and forest peripheral
areas.
• Diversion weirs:- To fill up the tanks from the rivulets by
construction of pickup anycuts and feeder channels.
• Sunken pits:- Cost effect way of recharge in the gullies.
• Cascade:- A series of checkdams construction with a view
to revive flow in the rivulets.

PROGRESSON SUCCESSFULEXPERIMENTSREPLICATION
CUMULATIVELY UPTO 30-060-2003
Name of the ExpAriment Target Achievement
Removal of tank encroachments 53117 36377
No. of chains identified for linkage
of tanks 3641 1619
Recharge through dried up wells 238556 73798

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Achievements and 427
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

Sunken pits 117611 69620

Series of check dams (cemented 4821 3624
Series of check dams (non-cemented) 39050 28240

Sub-surface Qy_kes 465 258

Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF)-VIII
Phase-I
In order to take up soil and moisture conservation works on
a massive scale for maximum recharge of groundwater, a project for
Rs.201.60 crores consisting of NABARD loan of Rs.151.20 crores
under RIDF-VIII and Food for Work component of Rs.50.40 crores is
under implementation. The details are as follows:
• Important streams and their catchments have been identified
as part of macro-watershed.
• Drainage line treatment on watershed basis has been taken
up adopting micro-basin approach.
• Cost effective water harvesting structures are taken up.
The project is being implementedin 480 stress mandalsfalling
under: Category-I, Category-II and Category-III as per Ground Water
Department study.
Phase-II
On account of failure of monsoon and the drought conditions
prevailing in the state and in order to provide work to the rural poor
while creating additional storage space for recharge, it is proposed
to undertake SMC works in stress mandals of categories I, II & III in
the state with an outlay of Rs.205.00 crores under RIDF-VIII, Phase-
II. 90% of this amount, Le., Rs.184.50 crores would be NABARD
loan and 10% l.e., Rs.20.50 crores would be state government share.
The works will be done in 6366 villages covering 627 mandals in the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
428 NEERU-MEERU

state by four major departments, Le., Rural Development, Forest,

Minor Irrigation and Panchayati Raj (MI) and PR (RWS).
Started implementation from 04-05-2003. So far, 10%
achievement is reported under the project.

IMPACT
(l). On Groundwater Levels

The Groundwater Departmenthas conducted impact analysis

studies of works taken up under Neeru-Meeru on groundwater levels
and found that:
• In spite of deficit rainfall of 9% the depth to water level at the
end of May, 2002 was 10.50 m. as against 12.01 m. at the
end of May, 2001, i.e., a net rise of 1.51 m. was recorded in
the state between May, 2001 and May-2002.
• Due to deficit rainfall of about 35% (normal rainfall 940 mm.
against which 612 mm. rainfall received) the depth to water
level at the end of May, 2003 was 13.59 m. as against 10.50
m. at the end of May, 2002 l.e., a net fall of 3.09 m. was
recorded in the state between May, 2002 and May, 2003,
which was due to long dry spell in the state and over-
exploitation of groundwater.

Water Year Rainfall Average depth (in mts) Fluctuation

(in mm) May May (Rise/Fall)

1998-99 1128 10.86 9.87 0.99

1999-2000 722 9.87 12.27 -2.4
2000-01 927 12.27 11.73 0.54
2001-02 845 11.73 10.50 1.23
2002-03 612 10.50 13.59 -3.09

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Achievements and 429
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

(ll). On Groundwater Recharge

• In the six phases of Neeru-Meeru (01-05-2000 to 31-05-

2003), an additional filling space of 12,977 Icm. has been
created. This has the potential of 20 tmc. groundwater
recha[ge under normal rainfall conditions for the year 2002-
2003.

(iii). On Drinking Water Scarcity

• Seasonal bore wells (dried up bore-wells, hand pumps)

reduced from 12663to 4111 between May 2001 to May 2002
and drinking water transportation habitations reduced from
817 to 537 between May, 2001 to May, 2002.
• Seasonal bore wells (dried up bore wells, hand pumps)
increased from 4111 to 21070 betWeenMay, 2002 to May,
2003 and drinkingwater transportationhabitationsincreased
from 537 to 1469 between May, 2002 and May, 2003 which
was due to long dry spell in the state and over exploitation
of groundwater.

(iv). ProductivityEnhancement

• Adcijtional areas brought under cultivation through silt

applications and SMC measures.
• Drought proofing in dry land forming areas to withstand long
dry spells.
• Improving productivity of degraded lands by silt application.
• Potential is created for fisheries development by restoration
of tanks.

(v). Augmentation of Irrigation

• Stabilization of ayacut under the tanks.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
430 NEERU - MEERU

• Stabilization of irrigated areas under bore wells.

• Rejuvenation of dried up wells and bore wells.
• Promoting 1.0. Crops.
• Effective water utilization by various drip irrigation methods.

(vi). Vegetation Improvement

• Large scale SMC works taken up in forest areas and barren
hillocks are helping in promoting natural regeneration from,
viable rootstock.
• Encroachment prevention by demarcation of forest
boundaries by Continuous Contour Trench (CCT) and tank
foreshore areas and supplementing the areas by artificial
regeneration methods like tree planting and seed dibbling.
• Promoting horticulture in drought prone areas.:
The detailed impact studies are in progresstaking one sample
mandai in each district. This shall reveal the two seasons' cumulative
impact of the Neeru-Meeru programme in quantitative as well as
qualitative term. The individualsuccessful experimentsstudies reveal
that cost effectiveness is an important fact as site-specific treatment
under Neeru-Meeru programme.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
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(A - aSD4d)nJaaw-nJaaN
 Neeru-Meeru (Phase - VI) "U~
CD 0
~ CD~
Department-wise Achievement (1.1.2003 to 31.05.2003) "0
CD <
o CD
~~
CD :;,
Target Achievement "Ulii
SI.
mOl
:;, :;,
Volume Financial Volume Financial Q'a.
Department Physical Physical
No. (Iakh (Rs. In (Iakh (Rs. In Z
(Nos.) (Nos.) CD
cu.m.) lakhs} !!!
cu.m.} lakhs} c:
~
CD
1 2 3 4 ·5 6 7 8 CD
2
1 Forest 87412 165.13 3280.52 72390 215.47 2933.95
2 Rural Development 90226 739.21 11281.15 57637 596.49 6957.21
3 PR-RWS 1464 122.74 2513.58 450 29.79 657.47
4 PR- MI 12757 438.12 7935.43 28759 570.48 8808.79
5 MAand UD 16914 8..88 359.23 6072 7.46 361.09
6 Endowments 202 0.73 25.5 285 0.69 18.18
7 Minor Irrigation 4868 1002.70 13872.92 2876 809.02 8175.52
8 Others 10660 63.51 1499.44 4942 97.76 1416.97
Total 224,503 2,541.02 40,767.78 173,411 2,327.15 29,329.17
436 NEERU - MEERU

MAJOR INITIATIVES OF THE GOVERNMENT

People's Participation
•. Through committees at district, assembly, municipal, mandai
and gram panchayat level duly involving elected
representatives, officials, NGOs and other concerned
agencies in order to facilitate people's participation in water
conservation movement.
• Through involvement of Self-Help Groups! Ayacutdar
Committees in the implementation.
• Neeru-Meeru works are executed by stakeholder groups or
committees, viz., Watershed Associations, Vana
Samrakshana Samithis (VSSs), Water User Associations,
DWCRA, CMEY, Yuva Shakthi and village education
committees are involved in the execution of Neoru-Meeru
works.

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

• Display of people's estimates and details of Neeru-Meeru
works (Phase I, II and III) in all villages.
• Prescribed procedure in entirety to be followed.
• Installation of websites (Planned).
• Taking all precautions to avoid recurrence of shortcomings
as pointed out by concurrent audit.
• Extensive use of digital cameras before, during and after
execution of works.
• Commencing of department and work wise documentation
executed under Phase-I and II,village! mandai! constituency
! district wise.

--___';--Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Achievements and 437
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

VERIFICATION AND MAINTENANCE

• Verification of works is being carried out through periodical
inspectionsby (departmental)specialteams in all the districts.
• Maintenance I repairs being undertaken by line departments
regularly.

WATER AUDIT
• Simplified procedures adopted to enable the local people to
carry out Water Audit at village level and to take judicious
decisions keeping in view the available water resources.
• Wells (Groundwater Audit)
Average draft from each well and number of wells.
Recharge based on fluctuation noted.
• Tanks (Surface Water Audit)
Water spread based recharge calculation.
Wet and ID crop based utilization.

QUALITY CONTROL
• Collectors ensuring frequent inspections by special teams.
• Quality control wings of departments I taking up inspections
I visits.

COMPLAINT CELL
• One cell in each Collector's office to receive complaints.
• One cell in Chief Minister's office for receiving and enquiring
into grievances at state level. All complaints received in this
will be enquired into by Engineering Staff College of India
(ECSI), an independent and professional body.

Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstitute
of AndhraPradesh,-----" t
438 NEERU-MEERU

INSPECTIONS BY INDEPENDENT, PROFESSIONALAGENCY

• Engineering Staff College of India (ECSI) undertaking

inspection of Phase-II works @ 20 per mandai will submit
weekly reports to the Government.

COST EFFECTIVENESS

• Collectors supervising preparation of estimates.

• Only low cost structures being propagated.

REMOVAL OF ENCROACHMENTS

• Urgent action under progress to remove all encroachments

on tank beds and feeder channels for free flow of rainwater
from catchment areas.

INTEGRATION OF GROUNDWATER DEPARTMENTIN

NEERU-MEERU

• Installation of observatory open/bore wells in every village/

gram panchayat.
• Recording water levels on a particular day in every month.
• Carrying out impact studies on scientific lines for estimating
the additional increase in groundwater recharge and
additional rainwater harvested.
• Studying the percolation levels based on soils / slope.
• Auditing the entire rainwater on scientific basis for every
village/ mandai / district / constituency / basin.
• Taking up water audit and water balance studies for each of
the villages, grama panchayats, municipality, mandals and
district immediately.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 Achievements and 439
Perspective Plan for Neeru-Meeru

ADDITIONAL GROUNDWATER RECHARGETHROUGH

NEERU-MEERU
Annual rainfall recharge (normal) 21912 mcm (773 tmc)
Recharge from water bodies and
irrigated areas (normal) 13381 mcm (472 tmc)
Gross recharge 35293 mcm (1246 tmc)
Volume of work done during
Neeru- Meeru phase-I (may 2000
to august 2000) 80mcm
Additional recharge due to Neeru-
Meeru phase-II (upto Sept. 2000) 760 mcm (27 tmc)
Volume of work done during
Neeru-Meeru phase-II (Sept. 2000
to April 2001) 117mcm
Possible additional recharge due to
Neeru'-Meeru Phase-II (in water
year 2001-2002) 1100 mcm (39 tmc)
Possible total additional recharge
due to Neeru-Meeru phase-I
and Phase-II 1860 mcm (66 tmc)
THE FOLLOWING ISSUESARE BEING LOOKED INTO:-
Water to be accounted for as State plans audit
The government will soon introducewater auditing to monitor
availability and management of water resources in the State. The
State wants to treat water like bank balance and maintain an account.
The State is in the process of putting in place a mechanismto publicize
village-wise details of water auditing. "Water Year" would be between
June1 and May 31, for auditing. The monthly audit reports of inflow,
availability and supply of water would be prepared from Panchayat

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
440 NEERU - MEERU

to State level. This will help manage water resources in a perfect

manner. The governmentwould seek World Bankassistanceto obtain
water-measuring technology. It would provide incentives and
disincentives to people depending on their water management. The
government's schemes like Neeru-Meeru, Watershed Development,
Joint Forest Management, Performance Indictors and Information
Techna10gyhad yielded results. The concept of farmers managing
water sources in the form of Water Users Associations has helped
bridge a gap ayacut of 10 lakh acres.
• Appropriate methodology for preparation of water balance
sheet (groundwater balance sheet) and evolving a
mechanism to manage the demand and supply (of water) for
the state/district for the year 2001-2002.
• Auditing of rainfall based on experience of Andhra Pradesh
Rural Livelihoods Project (APRLP).
• Impact of Neeru-Meeru on employment generation, drinking
water scarcity and water transportation in peak summer
months.
• Strengthening of committees for maintenance of nearly 8.12
lakh structures executed under Neeru-Meeru Phase-I and
Phase-II.
• Participatory mechanism for intensifying water conservation
activlties in urban areas with people's involvement.
• Adoption of valley to ridge approach during rainy season and
taking up intense catchment treatment (of major river
systems), plantation activities in forest areas.
• Strategy for appropriate water utilization by ensuring
convergence of interests of agriculture, animal husbandry,
industry and drinking water needs of human and animal
population.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
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 15
INTEGRATED APPROACH TO
WATER SUPPLY AND
SANITATION MANAGEMENT
While focusing attention on harvesting and conserving
rainwater arid going in for various devices for percolation of rainwater
in order to have rise of groundwater table, we may have to pay
attention to the day-to-day use of water. Further, environmental
sanitation is closely associated with the availability and use of water.
Conserving water is one thing, utilizing and managing the use is
another. The following pages outline an integrated approach to water
supply and sanitation management.
I. Water supply and sanitation and their management are an integral
part of a rural community and they cannot be isolated from the
culture or way of life of a people. An integrated approach to WSS
management raises a series of questions before one can thinkof
what the approach should be. Some of the questions are:
i) What are the conditions and problems prevalent in a rural
cOmmunitywith respect to WSS?
the physicalnature of the problems,cluster,linear, dispersed
type of dwellings
nature of the soil
sources, adequacy, distance, and means of supply, storage
and use of water
size of population, its ethnic and class structure and social
stratification
sanitary conditions

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 446 NEERU-MEERU

ii) What is the present nature and level of WSS in the

community?
iii) What is the community's perception of sanitation?
iv) What do they consider as insanitary?
v) The causes they attribute to insanitation?
vi) What is their level of awareness of insanitation?
vii) What have they done to improve sanitary condition?
viii) Assuming that the people are aware of sanitary problems,
what are the reasons for their not alleviating the situation?
ix) How does the community organize and manage WSS?
x) What are the physical, economic, social, technological,
organizational and managerial requirements to ensure a
better/ satisfactory level of WSS?
xi) What are the kinds of resources available within the
community?
xii) What are the kinds of resources that need come from
outside?
xiii) What are the external agencies that are to provide/ facilitate
with the requisite resources?
xiv) In what manner have the WSS activities been carried out
by the development agencies thus far?
xv) What is the experience and attitude of the residents of the
community vis-a-vis the WSS activities of the development
agencies?
xvi) What is the level and nature of integration of WSS activities
that obtains now?
xvii) What are the missing links? Where does the lacuna lie?
II. Keeping in view the ensuring of general health and welfare of the
community through WSS, what kind of an integrated approach is

Dr.M.C.R.H.R.DInstituteof AndhraPradesh
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 447
and Sanitation Management

necessary?
III. The elements in the integrated approach:

i) Physical housing, use of the precincts of the house,

cattle shed, kitchen,backyard,disposal of waste
the environs, the source, supply, protection,
adequacy and use of water, and its disposal.
ii) Technological improvements/innovations and their
maintenance in respect to WSS.
iii) Economic the cost of improvement, maintenance, the
local resources,the anticipatedexternal support
the individual/community affordability
iv) Cultural values attached to WSS, habits of people in
the use of water, defecation and waste disposal
attitude towards environmental sanitation and
level of tolerance to insanitary conditions.
v) Organizational : who will organize and manage the WSS
activities at the community level? Who from
external agencies?

IV. What should be integrated at the community level?

- needs
- interest
- initiative
- activities
- groups
- resources
- leadership
V. What is to be integrated at the external agencies level? How to
integrate and the problems of coordination?
- programme planning

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
44'8 NEERU-MEERU

- programme implementation
- programme evaluation

VI. The suggested approach is a holistic, integral, composite one

linking physical, technological and institutional components:
housing - environs - water - sanitation..;,.
toilets - waste disposal
- the user.

VII. The organization and management of WSS at the .cornmunity

level is dependent upon and influenced by the following aspects
of the community:
i) Awareness
ii) Pressure of the need
iii) Resources - material, human
iv) Composition of the group
v) Size of the group
vi) Social structure
vii) Structure of power and authority
viii) Kind and strength of existing organizations / institutions in
the community
ix) The kind and strength of local - institutional leadership
x) The degree of influence from outside the.cornmunlty
xi) Channelsand patternof inward and outwardCommunication
xii) Cultural orientations, values, attitudes of people towards
sanitation, use of water and maintenance
xiii) Economic level and affordability
xiv) Occupations and professions of the groups
In this context it may be relevantto briefly look into community
organization the concept, objectives, benefits and some of the
organizations at the rural community level. We may remember that

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 449
and Sanitation Management

an existing organization may be utilized for a specific new activity.

An organized community, in terms of groups, institutions, functions
and responsibility is a machinery that may be used for diverse
purposes. It does not deny the need for a specific organization or
special organizing for a specific activity. The thrust of the question is
on organizing the community and revitalizing the existing institutional
infrastructure at the rural community level.

(i).Community Organization'
It is important for a worker to have a complete understanding
about the community with which he works. By making a sociogram
of the community, he can work out the pattern of communication and
then understand who influences whom and to what extent. The
question is often raised as to how best agency workers can assist
the people in dealing with recalcitrant individuals and groups whose
sole purpose is to block progress. This needs a careful examination
and it brings us to the question of skills involved in working with groups
and communities. The worker has to understand what exactly is the
cause and the real cause may be different from what appears on the
surface. The worker may have preconceived notions. He can look
for the answer by studying the power structure within the community
and the vested interests it upholds. It has also its processes such as
decision-making, communication, social and cultural linkage and
boundary maintenance. A social compass would provide valuable
guidance to the extension worker and if he understands the elements
and processes operating in it, he will very easily map out the
interrelations of various factors. The components of the social
compass comprising of such things as community, governmental
structures, education, religion, family, social class, health,
communication, etc., can be analyzed in terms of its elements and
processes.
Community organization is a method by which an individual

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 450 NEERU - MEERU

is influencedthrough the group in which he works. This group provides

him the "fields" and it is by understanding the "field forces" that
affiliations and alignments of individual members are identified and
interpreted.
(ii). Community Concepts
The word community signifies different things to different
people according to their interpretation. In some places ethnicity
and religion may come to the mind whereas in other countries various
social communities are mentioned. Community refers to a group of
people inhabiting a given geographical area and having some kind of
common activities or some degree of common life, irrespective of
their social, religious or social differences. It is not confined to any of
the various restricted fields of community life on the basis of religion,
caste, race, language or profession but one that envelops the Whole
life of the whole community.
(iii). Definition
Community organization has been defined as a process
initiated to bring about and maintain an adjustment between social
welfare needs and social welfare resources in a given geographical
area. As a disciplined method "community organization seeks to
'bring about a social climate in which it is easier to resolve group
conflicts and initiate cooperative activity for the common good of the
community".
Community organization work concentrates its efforts in
narrowing down the areas of conflict and enlarging the areas of
cooperation. In short, the negative and destructive aspects of
competition is sought to be replaced by the positive and constructive
aspects of cooperation.
(iv). Central Obiective
The objective of "community organization" as a method of
social work activity is, one of helping the communities to recognize

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Integrated Approach to Water Supply 451
and Sanitation Management

and realize their needs and aspirations. First, there has' to be an

awareness about their problems and secondly there must be
willingness to work together towards these common objectives.
In any area, there willbe problemsof some sort and resources
both in men and materials and "community organization" seeks to
rouse the latter for the solution of the former. There is invariably a
gap between what facilities a community has and what it would like
to have, in other words, between achievements and aspiration. It is
the task of "community organization" to narrow down and bridge this
gap between social welfare needs and social welfare resources of a
community.
(v). Specific Objectives
(a) To obtain consciousness of community: For harmony and
progress of the community, a sense of "we" feeling, a sense of
belongingness is to be fostered among the members of a given
community. Such a sense of "we" feeling and interrelatedness
make the members feel that they constitute a unit by themselves,
a social entity as distinct from other communities. Just as self-
consciousness is essential for the individual so its importance to
the community. The process of integration rests primarily upon
definite self-consciousness of the community.
(b) To Satisfy unmet needs:Common needs which individuals and-
groups are unable to satisfy for themselves could be met by the
collective action of the community. It may be in .any sphere,
political, economic, social or cultural. Collective action is the
basis for community integration and community mobilization.
Determination of the needs of the community is therefore one of
the first steps.
(c) To obtain social participation as a means to socialization:The
ultimategoal of all human associationis the developmentof better
personalities by the individuals concerned. A community is

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452 NEERU - MEERU

composed of various groups in which its people associate. One

of the chief. handicaps to community action is the number of
families and individuals who do not belong to any formal
organization, who live a relatively isolated social life associating
with their own families and neighbours. The best index of the
socialization of the members of a community is the degree of
their participation in its organizations.
(d) To o_btainsocial control: Community organization is to obtain
social control through community spirit and loyalty. Social control
becomes possible by the development of community spirit, by
loyalty to the community and by symbols which express the
common objectiveof communityactivity. Sociologistshave called
these three factors - morale,collective representationsand esprit
de corps (common spirit pervading the group).
(e) To Coordinate groups and activities: In a given community there
may be several interest groups and their interests and activities
may come in conflict. Community organization is necessary in
order to prevent conflict and promote efficiency, cooperation and
coordination. This is important in a small community. Proper
adjustments are necessary. Efficiency may be promoted and
ends attained if coordination can be carried out to the point of
active cooperation.
(f) To prevent the community from the introduction of undesirable
influences and conditions: It is not enough to promote community
betterment from within, for the community must be able to defend
itself from the aggression of undesirable influences. Many a
community has found that it can work together for the elimination
of a drinking place or any other nuisance to the physical and
social health of the community.
(g) To cooperate with other communities and agencies to obtain
common needs: Frequently, the community is too small a unit to

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute'
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Integrated Approach to Water Supply 453
and Sanitation Management

achieve certain desired ends on its own. To obtain them, it is

necessary to cooperate with neighbouringcommunities to obtain
a bus line, water facilities, schools, colleges, etc.
(h) To establish a means of obtaining consensus: As for having their
needs accomplished, it is easily done by coming to a common
understanding. In a small rural community, it is obtained by
gradual crystallization of public opinion through casual
conversation at any shop or public place where people gather
usually. Sometimes hearsay, gossiping distort the facts and
promote disagreement rather than consensus.
(i) To develop leadership: Leadership for any group or collective
activity is a must. Potential leaders in the community are to be
identified, their talent recognized and developed. Local initiative
and local leadership are essential for building up a self-reliant
and self-confident community. It is not a question of spoon-
feeding, the external agency alone functioning, but creating
opportunities so that the local leadership is fully developed and
employed for the growth of the community.
Benefits of CommunityOrganization

(a). Group thinking and common good,

(b). Division of labour and responsibility,
(c). Recognition of individual merit,
(d). Community work, and
(e). Group efforts are more effective than individual efforts.
,A Measure of CommunityOrganization

Community organizationshould not be conceived as a relationship

which can be set up and which can be abolished. It is rather a process
of establishingrelationshipswhich will always be in a state of becoming
analogous to the growth of personality or character in the individual.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
454 NEERU-MEERU

One measure of community organization is the degree to which

organizations and interests are willing to cooperate in activities or
objectives for the betterment of the common welfare, for which they
are not primarily responsible and in which others will take the lead.
Another measure is the ability to have competition in politics or
business without conflict and the ability to discuss matters with a
division of opinion but with tolerance and with united support for the
objectives sought.
. The degree of socialization of the community is the best measure
of its organization. The better a community is organized the more it
serves the needs not only of its adult individualsbut also of its potential
members.
It has been very well summarized that the goal of community
organization is enlisting everyone in the community activities so that
each individual shall register effectively, that is, shall achieve self-
expression and status in community service.
From a behaviouristic standpoint the measure of community
organizationis the degree to which the members,individualsor groups
of the community act collectively for common welfare.
Statutory and non-statutory organizations like Village Panchayats,
cooperative societies, speciallnterest groups like DWACRA, Self Help
Groups, Vana Samrakshana Samithis, Vidya Committees, Water
Users Associations, Water Shed Development Committees etc.,
constitute some organizations at the rural community level.

FACILITATING COMMUNITY ORGANISATON2

A generiCdescription of the process of facilitating community
organization in a population group is depicted in Fig.1. Each step in
the critical pathway is needed for achieving stated objectives.
• Meeting population leaders: The critical entry point for the worker
at which the process of confidence building begins.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 455
and Sanitation Management

• Gathering information (community diagnosis): Demographic,

socio-cultural, topographic, and health data may all form a part of
the information gathered. Information also serves to broaden
dialogue and include women.
• Identifying existing structures: organizations capable of serving
as vehicles of community development are identified and the
worker seeks to strengthen, mobilize and coordinate them for the
subsequent steps. Most communities present several candidate
organizations, such as councils of elders, development
committees, or saving and loan associations.
• Selecting priority problems: The worker assists the new organized
group to agree on a set of problems of greatest importance to the
population. Community diagnosis also helps to define these
problems.
• Choosing one problem to work on: From the problem set the group
selects the one to attach first of all. Usually the problem chosen
will be the most pressing to the dominant faction or the most
amenable to local solution.
• Informing the people about the problem: By means of explanation,
demonstration,and auxiliarymaterialsthe workers and others seek
to raise the level of knowledge of, and sensitivity to, the problem
and its ramifications.
• Assessing local resources: Money,labour,materials,and technical
expertise may all be needed to adequately address the problem
selected. The extent to which they can be obtained locally is
ascertained.
• Setting staged objectives: The solution to the problem, whatever
it may be, can usually be divided into several stages and to each
attached a concrete objective, a time for achieving it, and a sense
of what it takes in labour, materials, and expertise to reach it.
• Setting responsibilitiesand time schedules: The staged objectives,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
456 NEERU-MEERU

attached time frames, and resources requirements, are identified

with individuals and groups within the population, to whom are
given the responsibilities for execution.
• Implementation
• Evaluation: Achievements are matched against objectives.
Problems are identified as well as success and used as platforms
for launching a new critical pathway.
It may be noted that "with each successful organized community
effort the cooperative and collaborative attitudes and practices of the
community are broadened and deepened. Likewise, unsuccessful
efforts have profound demoralizing effects".

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 457
and Sanitation Management

THE GENERIC PROCESS OF FACILITATING

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATON: A CRITICAL PATHWAY

Each step is necessary to achieve objectives

Meeting Population Leaders

Gathering Information

Identifying Existing Structures

Selecting Priority Problems

Choosing One Problem To Work On

Informing The People About The Problem

Assessing Local Resources,

Setting Staged Objectives

Setting Resp~nsibillties And Time Schedules

Implementation

Evaluation Of Results
Figure: 1
RATIONALE
The appropriateness of the community organization process
to water and sanitation programmes resides in two conditions for the
success of these programmes:
• If water supply and sanitation facilitates are to function properly
they must be maintained and repaired in a timely and correct
manner. Maintenance and repair can be assured in most rural
communities of developing countries only by an organized and
. trained constituency.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh------
458 NEERU-MEERU

• If the health and social benefits of improved water supply and

sanitation facilities are to be obtained, then the population must
participate in an organized way to properly use and protect water,
and to incorporate essential personal and domestic hygiene
associated with excreta disposal, food handling, and infant and
child care.

Maintenance and repair of facilities

The appalling rate of breakdown of water supply and
sanitation facilities in rural areas of the developingworld is well known.
Few developing countries are able to provide sufficient numbers of
maintenance personnel or the institutional and material support
needed to maintaina widespread networkof water supply and sanitary
installations. Most water supply ministries are seriously hampered
by shortages of trained personnel, lack of transport facilities, deficient
material supplies and overly centralized organizations. Ministries of
Health, the usual repositories of responsibility for sanitation, suffer
even more in the usual case from these organizational maladies.
Responsibility must therefore, devolve upon communities
themselves at least for the long-term maintenance and repair of
facilities. Women must necessarily play important roles in this regard.
The success of community maintenance programmes is dependent
on how well communities are organized. Community organization is
in turn conditioned by a number of other factors.

Achievement of Health and Social Benefits

Even if the water supply is safe and in working order, and the
excreta disposalfacility properly installed,a host of behaviouralfactors
may intervene to mitigate potential health and social benefits.
In the case of water supply, factors associated with water
drawing, transport, and storage may bring about contamination of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 459
and Sanitation Management

the source or the household supply. Even more importantly, use of

excreta disposal facilities needs to be reinforced by personal hygiene:
hand-washlnq, bathing, and washing and protecting food after
preparation. A sustained approach to these matters depends on
organization of supportive community structures, and networks of
peer support for behavioural change.

Conditions for Successwl Facilitation of Community

Organization
Ideally,community organizationgoes on without the influence
of the worker or any other external assistance. In fact, population
groups may quite properly be said to have their own intrinsic
organization, l.e., the innate ability to deal with defined problems.
Yet in practice normal social structures of many communities may
have deteriorated and function very poorly at best when challenged
with such matters as technologicalchange. Colonialpolicy,leadership
factors, urbanization, disease patterns, and traditional systems of
assigning status have been cited among those correlated with
variations in adaptive community behaviour. .
For water and sanitation the conditions for successful
facilitation of community organization need to be made more explicit.
Four conditions appear relevant:
(a) Trained personnel
(b) Information about the community (community diagnosis)
(c) Integrated approaches among sectors
(d) Available technology and information

Trained Personnel
Personnel need to be armed with skills of three types:
diagnostiC,supportive, and evaluative. Diagnostic skills relate to the
ability to delineate the communities within populations that represent

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
460 NEERU - MEERU

the main social units. Leadership, decision-making and

communication patterns, as well as the physical, demographic,
economic and health characteristics of the population should be
assessed. The worker should be enabled to gather data that will be
immediately useful in guiding his/her action without spending undue
time or effort in dOingso. In essence what a worker needs to know is
how he/she can operate within the resources and ccnsfraints of a
given community to generate optimum participation in the planning,
installation, maintenance, and repair of water supply and sanitation
facilities. The categories of what information is needed are explained
below.
. Supportive skills extend from establishingtrust to guiding and
facilitating group discussion, and providing continuous support and
empathy to individuals and social structures until they become
independently viable. We may think of a list a number of subsidiary
supportive functions:
• Creation of favourable group settings for community leadership
to emerge and develop.
• Reconciliation and mediation of conflict or potential conflict, where
there is a threat to continuity to community organization.
• Maintaining contact between community structures and their
progress on the one hand and external government or agency
action on the other.
• Acting as a resource link for village and external resources.
• Knowledge and appropriate use of technical back-up resources.
• Assurance of a continuity of surveillance and monitoring of water
and sanitation facilities.
Evaluation skills pertains particularly to understanding the
relevance of programme evaluation to continuous programme

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-------

Integrated Approach to Water Supply 461
and Sanitallon Management

improvement and effectiveness, and to stimulating the participation

of the people of the community in the design and application of
evaluative procedures as a means of developing greater commitment
on their part to the programme. Community workers should also be
able to do simple process evaluation of events, activities, and the
characteristics of local participation as well as simple outcome
evaluation of change in knowledge and behaviour.

Information about the comh'lunity

By means of simple observations and selected interviews

the community worker should be able to gather a modicum of data
sufficient to make the diagnosis of community capacity to participate
mentioned earlier. Data items selected from the following categories
should be incorporated into a simple instrument feasible for use by
community workers.
i). Physical features of the community .
a. Topography
b. Types of soil
c. Water table
d. Types and location of water sources
e. Meteorological and climatic features
f. Availability of natural resources
ii). Biologic features
a. Water quality
b. Common disease vectors
c. Prevalent water and excreta-related.diseases
iii). Economic features
a. Assets
b. Access to resources

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 462
NEERU-MEERU
\
c. Liabilities
d. Economic infrastructure
iv). Demographic features
a. Distributions
b. Ethnic composition
v). Socio-cultural features
a. Beliefs about water and excreta
b. Water use
c. Excretion patterns
d. Local skills
e. Existing local organizations
f. Relationships to outside organization
g. Leadership patterns
h. Communication patterns
i. Decision-making patterns
j. Previous self-help experience
Integration of approach among sectors

Specific reference to health workers has been deliberately

avoided in the discussionabove in order to emphasizethe intersectoral
nature of both water and sanitation programmes and the concern
with facilitatingcommunity organization. Severalsectors depend upon
the success of community organization for the achievement of their
objectives at the periphery of the population. Among them are
agriculture,education, publicworks, and health. In a sense, faCilitating
community organization is the primary objective for each, more
important in the long run than achieving any specific technical
objective. If pumps are installed but break down, whom do they

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Integrated Approach to Water Supply 463
and Sanitation Management

benefit? If latrines are constructed but are not maintained, who will
use them? If a primary school is built but teachers refuse to live in
the village, how will the children be taught? A feeder road constructed
but not maintained may not result in increased access to markets. If
one worker undermines or fails to contribute to the success of the
community organization others may not be able to achieve their
objectives. Workers need to be able to refer "felt-needs" from one
organization to another to another and to feel a sense of
accomplishment in success achieved outside their particular sector.
Figure-2 illustrates these relationships. As depicted, the community
organization process is at the centre. Each community level worker
contributes to the process while making specific technical inputs.
These inputs need to be made at appropriate points in the
process. The figure indicates that the community organization is a
dynamic cyclical process. Each successfully completed project in
fact enhances the ability of individuals and social structures to work
together and strengthens local ability to analyze and solve problems.
With each turn of the cycle, as it were, the capacity of the community
to absorb new technical inputs and face new adaptive challenges
increases.
Thus a community at one point may be able to successfully
complete and maintain an open well with a bucket and pulley and
though what was learned in both a technical and organizationalsense,
be able to move on later to the installation and maintenance of a
handpump, or even later to the maintenance of a feeder road.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Fig. 2. THE COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION PROCESS:
CONTRIBUTIONS OF VARIOUS COMMUNITY LEVELWORKERS
PUBLIC WORKS TECHNICIAN

W.U"SUpply
TEACHER Road Construction
HOME EXTENSION WORKER
Uttracy Domestic Science
Ttdmlclll Education
Basic Communication SkDIs \ ~
Home Gardening
Family Planning

a Community
Orgmlzation:
PImnlng-
Ev..... lon

ASSISTANT SANITARIAN

Sanitation
Honsing
.: HEALTH WORKER
Environmental Health
Health Education
Waste Dispol8l
AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION WORKER Primary Prevention
Z
Primary Care m
m
Seed ImprovtJilmt
CoItIvation Ttdtniquts
Family Planning
.
::u
c
3:
Harvesting Technique. m
m
GraIn Storagt ::u
AnImal Traction
c
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 465
and Sanitation Management

These interrelationships need to be operationalised in joint

intersectoral policy-making, joint middle level management, and joint
training programmes.

Available technology and information

If community organization is to issue in successfully installed

and maintained water supply and sanitation facilities, then community
members must have access to adequate and appropriate technology,
and information on how to use it. Personnel in public education,
public works, health, agricultural, and other services may be the
purveyors of both technology and information. The results of
community diagnosis should indicate which of available technologies
are economically affordable, socially acceptable and technically
maintainable for both water supply and sanitation. Careful analysis
of previous local experiencesof organizedproblemsolving,particularly
the most recent experiences will help to determine whether the
information and technology introduced at a particular point in the
community organization cycle can be absorbed and adapted by the
local organization.
A good case in point is that of villages in the South Cameroon,
which· at the onset of efforts to stimulate community organization
installed temporary protection of springs using strictly local materials,
but later were able to commit funds and labour to a more permanent
protection. The introduction of more sophisticated technology close
on the heels of the initial success was a key strategy. An important
element in this transfer of technology was the introduction of a
technique of splitting rock. The project chauffeur, who had learned
the technique on trips to another region of the 'country, taught the
villagers how to pour cold water over a heated rock. This technique
facilitated spring box construction.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
466 NEERU - MEERU

Information on the use of the many varieties of water supply

and sanitation technology is unfortunately in short supply. Most
available manuals are written in Englishand use languageand images
too technical for practical use by community members. Needed are
manuals generously illustrated with non-technical drawings and a
minimum of written explanation.
Greater emphasis needs to be placed on the development
of demonstration models.

Outcomes of SuccessfulFacilitation of Community

Organization

Case historiesdrawn from Africa illustratethree major benefits

of effectivelystimulatingor faCilitatingthe local communityorganization
process:
1. Reinforcement of local management capacities
2. Enhancement of participation
3. Increased probability of programme success
The first, taken from a village in the South Central Cameroon,
illustrates the catalyzing effect or efforts to facilitate community
organization on local ability to manage water and sanitation facilities.
This village with about 1500 inhabitants in five hamlets, was one of
four selected as pilot villages in the AID/OCEACPublic HealthTraining
Project (1972-76). Four years prior to the onset of the pr,oject,this
village had experienced a remarkable reversal of what had been a
deteriorating relationship between the older and younger generations.
Through the establishment of dialogue between the generations on
a number of important issues, a reconciliation took place which the
Project inherited.
A village health committee took shape readily in the central

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 467
and Sanitation Management

hamlet. Despite having no technical experiences with the protection

of springs or the construction of latrines, the committee was able to
organize the temporary protection of one spring and the construction
of over 40 properly covered pit latrines. Later the spring was protected
in a permanent manner, and plans were laid for pumping water from
the spring to an elevated reservoir and thence by gravity to a
community standpipe. In all, 43 pit latrines were constructed (out of
50 households) and in use. At a later date, the committee had
calculated the costs of putting in similar systems in the other hamlets.
The health committee had become a community water and sanitation
planning board.
A second South Cameroon village presented in 1972 a
distressing picture of a predominantly/dependent population (elderly
or very young), widespread endemic disease, and virtual absence of
water source protection or excreta disposal installations. Leadership
was confined to the hands of a few clan leaders surrounding a rather
weak elderly traditional chief.
Community leaders agreed to form a health committee, but
spring protection and latrine construction progressed little beyond
the talking stage, except for a single pit latrine at a clan leader's.
The committee, however, provided a forum in which many
others besides village elders participated. Discussions of issues
surrounding environmental protection, direct health education
presentations,and the baseline medico-socialsurvey, exposed many,
including women and youth to new technology and new information.
In the second year of the project, with continued efforts to strengthen
the committee, other latrines began to appear and protection of four
springs moved ahead apace. Facilitation of community organization
had a salutary effect on both the characteristics and the extent of
participation.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
468 NEERU - MEERU

We may think of a framework for analyzing participation as

.an impact of the community organization process described above.
In simplest terms, this framework cossets of two parts: (1) the
dimensions ·of participation in terms of what it consists of, who
participates and the characteristics (the how) of participation; and (2)
the context of participation, comprising characteristics of both the
project and the environment in which the project is implemented.
One could be sure of a steady reduction in the prevalence of
intestinal parasites as community leaders took hold of the long-term
management of latrine construction and use, albeit and the incentive
of periodic vermifuges played an important role. In the same
Cameroonian village reported earlier community leaders on the basis
of their success with the management of the water supply, took
advantage of a change in Cameroonian land tenure laws that allows
for optional individual or communal ownership of land, to develop a
community-wide landholding. The Malawi enhancement of
organization at the community level was prelude to a successful long-
term maintenance programme.
Thus whether one is speaking of health or social benefits or
simply the proper functioning and use of water and sanitationfacilities,
improved organization at the community level appears to be an
essential ingredient in the mix.
Conclusion

Experience to date points, therefore, to community

organization and to whatever can be done to stimulate and enhance
this process intrinsic to local population groups, as an imperative to
the success of water supply and sanitation programmes among most
rural populations of developing countries. Organized individuals and
social structures appear to be essential for both the proper function

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Integrated Approach to Water Supply 469
and Sanitation Management

of facilities and the achievement of heelth and social benefits'.'Certain

....,~ .' '" ,;." ~,' • " .' L . • . .; ."

conditions, however, are needed for facilitation of the process:

'personneltrained in community,diag~ostiCsuppoiti~;, .e~luative a~a
skills, information about the co{T)munity,toguidefacilitation,integration
of approach amo~g 's~rvides st~mdlng:to benefit from successful
community organization, and technology and information the
continuous cycle.of local development. Finally, successful facilitation
of community organization produces in practice certain benefits:
improved local management of water and sanitation facilities,
enhanced participation by community members, and increased
probability of project success in both an operational and an outcome
sense.

REFERENCES
1. Setty, E.D. 1970, Community Development and Extension in
India", Gandhigram Rural Institute, Gandhigram, South India.
2. WASH Technical Report No.7, June 1981, WASH Coordination
and Information Centre, 1611, N. Kent Street, Room 1002,
Arlington, VA 2209, USA.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 WATER HARVESTING BY THE NSS
VOLUNTEERS IN THE UNIVERSITIES OF
ANDHRA PRADESH *
National Service Scheme, popularly known as NSS, is a
student youth programme in operation in universities and colleges in
the country, the programme started in the birth centenary year of
Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation, the scheme aims at
developing the personality of the student through community service.
The scheme is supported by both Central and State Governments
and various programmes are being organized by the young student
volunteers. In every college, a batch of 100 students under the
guidance of a Programme Officer (teacher) volunteer to take up
development projects in their adopted villages/slums. The
programmes include creating awareness on various development
issues like, environment,sanitation,health, hygiene,literacy, and HIV/
AIDS, etc. Besides, the students take up projects that are
accomplished through 'shramadan' (gift of labour) along with the
members of the local community. Govt. of India, have decided to
involve the student youth in Watershed and Water harvesting projects
under the theme "Youth for Jal Samvarthan".
Water, which is elixir of life, has been a social issue in many
parts of the country. Successive failure of monsoons yielding less
rainfall added to the existing woes of the populace with dwindling
water table. The State Government has given a call to make efforts
on water harvesting by the people. Government of India, Ministry of
Youth Affairs and Sports, declared that the theme for the NSS for the
year 2002-03 is" Youth for Jalsamvardhan". In view of this, the NSS
Regional Centre, Hyderabad, which is the state level office to advise,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water HaNesting by the NSS Volunteers 471
in the Universities of Andhra Pradesh

plan, monitor and supervise the NSS activities had suggested to 13

universities in the state to organise "Mega Work Camps" on Water
harvesting in their respectivejurisdictions. Accordingly, the NSS units
of these universities have taken up 1610 minor water harvesting
structures/check dams viz., construction/repairs in their adopted
villages. In addition to this, six major universities-Osmania, Andhra,
Nagarjuna, Sri Krishnadevaraya, Venkateswara and Kakatiya were
asked to organise mega work camps on water harvesting under their
jurisdiction. These camps have provided an opportunity to the young
student volunteers' gleeful experience of living and working together
with the community. The camps have not only sensitized the student
youth.on issues of water conservation and water harvesting but also
motivated the community to particlpate in the development process
of their own areas. For instance, the mega camp held at Uppplapadu
village in Narsaraopet mandai in Guntur district by the NSS volunteers
of Nagarjuna University, motivated the marginal farmers as well as
the well to do members of the community to join hands with the
students to solve the long pending land dispute. The tank was in fact
sandwitched between three villages and no member of the community
was able to take care of the issue, until the advent of the 200 NSS
Volunteers drawn from various colleges of their own areas.
Similarly, the 500-year-old ancient tank of the Ahobilam, the
famous temple in Allagadda mandai in Kurnpol district was in a bad
state with gross neglect for years. The tank, once under use for the
pilgrims as well as for the local community had been put completely
in disuse and there was no member of the community, temple or the
local administration to take remedial steps. The camp by the
volunteers made the authorities to wake up from slumber and
motivated the agencies concerned and local people to clean the tank
and put it to public use.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
472 NEERU-MEERU

The NSS Regional Centre has sanctioned Rs.95, 000/-

towards board, lodging and other expenditure for 200 students for 10
days. It is estimated that Rs.1.5 lakh worth has been saved to the
public exchequer. The camps have been organizedwith multi-sectoral
approach and various developmentagencieswere involved, including
members of Legislature and Parliament,
District authorities, Vice-Chancellors etc., have visited the
camps to provide moral booster to the students. Therefore,
involvement of NSS Volunteers in development projects would not
only help the community in the area focused but also in pursuing
their other demands. The windows of opportunities got opened for
the NSS Volunteers to learn the basic tenets of community living and
cooperative action.
The volunteers have done excellent work in deepening and
beautification of a lake by removing the thorny bushes, grass,
parthenium plants and also desilted the tank. The dimensions of the
tank are about 900 ft. length, 700 ft. width and 6 ft. depth and it has
been completelycleanedand put to use for water for various purposes.
The students will use the surrounding place for their studies and also
have a discussion with their classmates after the cleaning work has
been done by the NSS Volunteers. About Rs.1.7 lakhs has been
saved by the university to the public exchequer. Shri Bandaru
Dattatreya, Union Minister for Urban Development, Prof.J. Ananta
Swamy, Vice-Chancellor, QU., Mrs. Vandana Kumari Jena, Joint
Secretary, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Shri Khuddus,Additional
Secretary, Higher Education, Govt . of Andhra Pradesh, Shri
K.Vasavan, Asst. Programme Adviser, NSS Regional Centre,
Prof.Mutha Reddy, Registrar arid Dr.K.V.Chalam, Programme Co-
6rdinator, NSS, QU, Mrs. Amala Nagarjuna,Cine Actress & President,
Blue Cross Society, Hyderabad have visited the camp.

-----Dr..M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Harvesting by the NSS Volunteers 473
in the Universities of Andhra Pradesh

The NSS Volunteers of Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati

have taken up a check dam within the campus. More than 200 NSS
Volunteers were involved in deepening the existing check dam,
removing the silt and constructed the bund in and around the tank.
Now the tank can easily store 1500 cft of water during the rainy
season. This water will percolate to the drinking water wells on the
campus and also facilitate moisture in the neighbourhood for better
growth of the existing trees and plants. More than Rs. 1.5 lakhs
worth of work has been done by the NSS Volunteers during the 10
days programme. The volunteers have deepened the checkdam and
strengthenedthe bank. Now, more water is stored and also it prevents
the leakages of the check dam with the help of NSS Volunteers under
the mega camp programme. Prof. C. Murali, Vice-Chancellor, SVU,
has inaugurated the camp under the supervision of Sri R. Srinivasulu
Naidu, Programme Coordinator, NSS.
The Kakatiya University,Warangalhave constructed21 water
harvesting structures in order to preserve the running water and
prevent the wastage. 2 mega water harvesting work camps have
been held under the theme "Youth for Jal Samvardhan" to build a
unique water structure called "sub-surface dyke" at Peecharla village
in Dharmasagar mandai of Warangal district. It is estimated that the
cost of the structure is RS.2.00 lakhs. The structure has been
constructed by the NSS Volunteers with the technical support of
DistrictWater ManagementAgency,Warangal. The sub-surfacedyke-
after its construction has increased the water level in a radius of 5
kms in the respective villages.. A second mega work camp was
organisedat Mysampallyvillage, Karimilagar district wherein the NSS
Volunteers have constructed a feeder channel,which is 1.5 km in
length. After the construction of the channel, 150 acres of wetland is
expected to get water from the nearest tank for irrigation. The main

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
474 NEERU - MEERU

aim for construction of the feeder channel is to improve the water

levels of the irrigation tanks located in and around the channel.
Prof.CKKokate, Vice-Chancellorand Dr.G.Benerjee,ProgrammeCo-
ordinator, NSS of Kakatiya University visited the camp.
200 NSS Volunteers of Andhra University, Visakhapatnam,
have participated in desilting a tank under "Jal Samvardhan"
programme. The volunteers have cleaned the water tank of about
7460 sqft (PathruniCheruvu), BrahmanaTarla village, Palasamandai,
of Srikakulam district. The storage capacity of the tank is 8,90,880
litres of water. The volunteers have camped for 10 days at Brahmana
Tarla village and have saved 1800 man-days for the Government
and Rs.90, 000/- for the public exchequer. In addition to this, the
volunteers have planted 3000 sapplings adjacent to the water tank in
collaborationwith the village panchayatofficials. The daily newspaper-
Andhra Bhoomi, on 13.9.03 has pointed out the work of the NSS
Volunteers as a great achievement. Sri P.Ramachandra Rao, District
Programme Officer, NSS was the camp director for this programme.
The foregoing brief account speaks of what the student
volunteers of NSS have been able to accomplish within a short period
in respect to conservation of rainwater. In a way, it is a basic training
for the student volunteers in terms of Shramadan (gift of labour) and
they had an opportunity of understanding the rural conditions and
the importance of conservation of water, since the student volunteers
in large number have camped in those villages for some days and
mingled and worked with the villagers. It has really enthused villagers
when the young university students were toiling in the field digging,
deepening and constructing channels and bunds in order to conserve
water. In terms of the value in monetary terms may not be significant.
But the learning on the part of the students and also on the part of the
members of the local communities is something that is to be taken

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Harvesting by the NSS Volunteers 475
in the Universities of Andhra Pradesh

note of.
Though, the need for desilting irrigation sources and digging
up of the supply channels was there for some years, the villagers in
some instances have treated the problem quite casually and they
could not mobilize themselves to do the job in order to conserve
water and also free flow of water in their supply channels. Once the
NSS student volunteers moved to these villages and camped there
for a couple of days and undertook the desilting etc., it has created a
kind of awakening on the part of the villagers. On the other hand, it is
an exciting experience and learning for the students.

PHOTOS ILLUSTRATING THE ENTHUSIASTIC

PARTICIPATION OF THE STUDENT VOLUNTEERS OF NSS IN
WATER HARVESTING

ANDHRA UNIV£RSITY, VISAKHAPATNAM •

•~~. ~.I'!"'a .:"~.6.

k~'!{·.J!\' "".n.5 r.r(W~~~
r.."::::.;;: ....;,.o~t!?.)t.:.Iio1
~~~.,.::.~ ~.I>L)-;: ~r.-.:,.,'J.
~...
'td.~""::-~ il',J,~ .... ~
-=:"~t.i;' "".:::"""',; \ol~:f ~~
f#T"W;::""':: 0J:r<"!'~9Q
"~,:,,.~~~~ ,.. Ir·\~tt~."
~?~u·.!.4 .?I••'!--tO-..",\;;"'" ri
~:!~~cj~~~
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:;:;:
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~._:~... ~~(!Ilt;,;:
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.::.-.4;u. uk.:..\~~t::ilI~ t4;.w !;_,'f, ;';;Je"'!·t,;;. ,;S.o~~ .~itf
f.!d"q:~:" CI~ ...~~I.l$. .. jJ.i ;$:f'~ 1rJi'\::1';!"~"".>;..JII.o ,...~, ~..~~i1oOI''''~<:'''''~
l!!"¥IilCl.~~S!"~:',.;':.'l";;c. ><'t.r.J"., ~, ~~ -;,;.."..,.;:.. :.of-o!:.Ji.: "*"~4.l.l" 1d">:Wd'
~ .;:_:.~",:!..",,~1.
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~~~. CIIc>:'t ~~~t'"
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.:..,:,~~.:.f.:.~;a...!..t:.
~~.::. &f.;~ ~~..G
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].~ ...
~:~;~tl~~
-~'QII~.-c;c...~ l!\":fl! .J:U~
,"'.;G:;~JP,;t.{.:.go~.6)..1 ~;:'~, !;';;~,.;!.~1::! :<.;i
,~(l..~ v...,f~~ c'!) -.:t...:..v.J.-v.;iv; ,»,~
..... :~~~;;~~~~
('~.""A:.
-'\."":t:',,,,-
ftI~.jd4-,~
..ru,'1C.!i
t:"'.:b:.,;a...,¥""joJ.:t-':'J
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.:.o~~~~o. :~~:.r~~!;:~~
u:;.~ ,~<!. :.."":"~-o;;;:w.;.,,.
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U,l(1<,1j~~OI'':',:%-i!-.-:J.:I.~.x!.I(f

.ffII'..~.....4il~:
!:t_::0;~~--:.~~:~
";;...kou.i1~,~~~.;."'''''-,,,,,;<
,;:.;,;~..o::..¥ .... :;...,.~~iI.
;;....~"..:L. .:t...~ r.-~~~.).
"'~.~ 41~.
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,..~_!"¥.(;.!.< ..~ ~.~~:~:~.~
~~ __

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
476 NEERU - MEERU

(NSS Activities ReachingGreater Heightsby the Participation

of Student Volunteers in Jalayagna - Palasa (Rural), Andhra
University, Visakhapatnam. The news item above in Telugu provides
the details of achievements in the field of desilting of tanks, planting
of economic and shade plants and laying of cutcha roads by the NSS
student volunteers of Andhra University. This ten-day Shramadan
by the students not only contributed to physical achievement but the
very collective group activity highly enthused and motivated the
student volunteer community. They set an examplewhat the students
under the inspirationof the NSS philosophyand with the organizational
effort made by the NSS coordinators and the university-college staff.)

KAKATIYA
UNIVERSITY,
WARANGAL

INTER-COLLEGIATE
NSS MEGA CAMP,
2003 -
KRISHNA DISTRICT

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Harvesting by the NSS Volunteers 477
in the Universities of Andhra Pradesh

OS MANIA UNIVERSITY, HYDERABAD

NSS in Social Service, on

the campus of Osmania
University, Hyderabad

SRI VENKATESWARA UNIVERSITY, TIRUPATI

Source:- Sri K. Vasavan, Assistant Programme Advisor, NSS

Regional Centre, Hyderabad, Andhra Pradesh

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 17
EFFORTS OF A VOLUNTARY
ORGANIZATION IN WATERSHED
DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT:
THE PUNGANUR TALUK RURAL
RECONSTRUCTION MOVEMENT
(PTRRl\1)
Neeru-Meeru as a massive programme for conservation and
utilization of water involves the following departments and of course
the people and their participation. Though the principal departments
are concerned with this continuous project of life saving measures,
here is an instance of a voluntary organization which has taken up
work related to watershed management. In this chapter though the
focus is mainly what this NGO has been able to accomplish in
conserving rainwater through watershed, it would be relevant here to
give a brief background of other kinds of activities that this voluntary
organization has taken-up and progressed considerably. It is a
motivating factor for other innumerable number of voluntary
organizations working for the upliftment of the people in the rural
areas.
• Rural Development
• Forest Department
• Minor Irrigation (PR)
• Rural Water Supply (PR)
• Municipal Administration

----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-- ...........

-
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 479
Development Management: PTRRM

• Endowments
• Minor Irrigation (I & CAD)
• Rural Development
While detailing the progress related to watershed in the area,
the report also quite plainly speaks of the problems the NGOs face in
carrying out the projects and the kind of indifference, apathy and
non-parttclpatlon of some of the people in the project area. But it
also shows how the people have realized rather lately the significant
work the NGO has able to accomplish which stands as a motivator
and lesson to the people in that area.

GENESIS:
PTRRM has been functioning as a 100 percent grassroot
voluntary organization without any Foreign Funds for the past 20
years with a background of over 3 decades in Rural Development
right from the inception of National Extension Service Scheme and
the SKDey's Community Development Programme.
This organization functioned as an unregistered organization
between 1960 and 1980, when intensive youth work was launched
throughout the erstwhile Taluk consisting of Ramasamudram,
Punganur, Peddapanjani,Chowdepalie,Somalaand Sodum mandals
by mobilizing the youth through Youth organizations for involvement
in self-help Programmes such as Shramadan, Sanitation, School
Improvement, Literacy, Health. and popularization of scientific
methods of agriculture and animal husbandrywith emphasis on higher
production.
On par withYouth organizations,women's organizationswere
also formed.
REGISTRATION:
Having gained vast experience in the field, PTRRM decided
to take up a systematic Rural Development work in an integrated

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
480 NEERU - MEERU

nature in the areas of Literacy, Health, Livelihood and Leadership by

involving the Youth and Woman volunteers. The PTRRM was
registered in 1981 under the RegistrationAct of 1860with Registration
No.293/81, Dt.20.07.1981.This organisationhas also been registered
under the FCRA bearing No. 010140026, Dt.18.03.85.
RURAL YOUTH MOVEMENT:
As many as 265 youth groups were promoted with 5,260
members. These groups playedan activerole in shramadan(donation
of labour), agriculture and animal husbandry, tree-plantation, tribal
development, literacy and family welfare programmes. Under
shramadan, new approach roads have been formed in addition to
repairing of the existing roads.
Incentives by way of prizes were given to the best youth
organisations. Their contributlon to Shramadan was complimented
by the local people as well as the authorities.
In order to maintainthe same spirit among the youths, training
as well as orientation programmes were conducted from time to time.
Delegates from the best organisations participated in the
National Integration Camps in Punjab, U.P. as well as National
Seminars at New Delhi.
These groups have been motivated to participate in the
innovative Rural Reconstruction Programme of °JANMABHOOMI'
(Mother land).
TRYSEM is a part of this programme.
Under the Youth Exchange Programme, two volunteers from
the Philippines, through the UNDP, stayed with this organisation and
visited the Programmes. Their visit facilitated the mutual exchange
of experience in the field of Rural Development.
Youth Programmes have been done in close co-ordination
with the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development through

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----

/
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Wat~rshed 481
Development Management : PTR~M

N.Y.K., the International Youth Centre, New Delhi, UNDP and the
development departments.
These programmes earned a recognition both at State and
National levels. PTRRM won the State Youth Award.
FAMILY WELFAREPROGRAMME

PTRRM undertook the challenging task of Family Welfare

Programme including Family Planning, Immunization, Mother and
Child Care,· Health & Sanitation and Nutrition in collaboration with
the Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare through the Family
Planning Association of India, Mumbai for the last 5 years.
The UNICEF commended the efforts of PTRRM in promoting
the Immunization Programme.
The Government awarded PTRRM for its outstanding work
done in the Family Welfare Programme.
PTRRM has been doing the follow-up programme with
the active involvement of volunteers as well as local Dais
and helping the Health staff for implementing the Family
Welfare Programme through innovative motivational
methods.
WOMEN IN DEVELOPMENT

62 Mahila Mandals (Women's Organizations) with 950

members have been formed and they are involvedin Savings, Kitchen-
gardening, Health,Women & Child Welfare Programmes.20 Tailoring
Centres were run with the assistance of the N.Y.K., the Women's
Welfare and the Development Departments. 300 Poor women were
trained in tailoring for providing them livelihood.
FORMATION OF SELF-HELPGROUPS

A special feature of this Programme has been concentration

on the savings programme. An intensive work of motivating rural

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
482 NEERU-MEERU

women has been taken up in 20 villages in Chowdepalle Mandai by

organizing 50 self-help groups.
This was the first time that thrift groups were formed in this
area on a large scale. The strategy adopted to involve women into
this programme is by convincing the male members of their families.
The habit of savings was not popular earlier. Hence, the need to
motivate rural women. The successful example of one village is being
emulated by another adjacent village. Thus, this programme is being
expanded as a movement. In organizing these groups, care has been
taken that women themselves decide matterswithout the interference
of male members. For the first time, rural women are meetingtogether
on a particular day in a month and organizing the Rolling Fund.
Decision-making not only about the Rolling Fund, but also about the
other problems confronted by the village community are being
discussed by women. They are being guided to identify problems
and adopt ways and means to solve them. Each member of the group
has been saving at Rs.30-50 per month and the amount thus saved
has been deposited in a local Bank under the [oint account of two
leaders of the groups.
Similarly, 81 groups have been formed in Peddavelagatur,
Muthukur and ChalamangalamWatersheds in Peddapanjani Mandai,
Settipeta Watershed in Chowdepalle Mandai and Somala - 1 & 2,
Avulapalle-1 & 2 and Peddaupparapalle-1& 2, Watersheds in Somala
Mandai,These Watersheds are being implementedby PTRRM. Some
of these groups are being entrustedwith the constructionprogrammes
in Watersheds.
These groups are being motivated to involve their members
in the Family Welfare, Literacy, and Economic Development
Programmes such as Sericulture industry, Dairy, Calf-rearing, Goat-
rearing, Basket-making, Leaf-making, Rope-making, Vegetable-
growing, Petty trade, Flower- Growing etc. in order to help the poorest
of the poor.
-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 483
Development Management: PTRRM

Awareness is being created to dispel superstitious beliefs,

deep-rooted in this area and adopt scientific attitude in life. Health
education especially on preventive methods, nutrition with locally
available food stuffs, consumer protection, ill-effects of chewing
. tobacco, smoking, environmental protection, child care, water
sanitation and the role to be played in strengthening local bodies are
being explained through these groups.

PLANTATION PROGRAMME
.Prior to the implementation of the Watershed Programme
l.e. 2000-2001, saplingswere collected from the CentralizedNurseries
of the Forest Department as well as Watershed Nurseries and
distributed to the needy farmers through the Youth and Women's
Organisations. The choice of the species of saplings in this area is
Teak, Jamun, Bamboo, Eucalyptus and Fruit plants.
Women are being actively involved in raising kitchen gardens
with the plants of Hybrid Drumstick, Papaya and Curry feaf.
Under the Watershed Development Programme, three
Centralized Nurseries are being raised at Muthukur, Irikipenta and
Bayareddipalle with 1 lakh plants in each Nursery for planting on .
Government as well as private lands, trenches etc.

LITERACY
During the Total Literacy Programme launched by the
Government, services of 30QVolunteerswere provided to run Literacy
Centres in Chowdepalle, Somala and Peddapanjani Mandals. Efforts
are being made for the success of the Continuous EducationCentres.
PTRRM was in-charge of Cultural Programmes in
Chowdepalle and Peddapanjani Mandalsfor motivating the illiterates.

PROMOTION OF SERICULTURE INDUSTRY

Sericulture industry has proved to be a boon to small and

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
484 NEERU-MEERU

marginal farmers since it fetches a higher income of 5 -10 times than

the traditional crops.
With the experience gained in running a Chawkie Rearing
Centre at Billeru Kotha Indlu Village with the World Bank Aid for the
last 3 years, Sericulturistsare being motivatedon the tips for achieving
higher production of cocoons.
The World Bank Team, accompanied by the Commissioner
of Sericulture Department appreciated the technical aspects of the
Chawkie Rearing Centre.

SUPPORT TO THE UNDER-PRIVILEGED

The deserving physically handicapped persons are being
identified for securing Tricycles, Hearing Aid, Artificial Limbs,
Economic Assistance, Pensions and Free Bus Passes through
Government and Private Organisations.
300 cases were arranged for the Physically Handicapped
Camp at Madanpalle, organised by the 'Mangalam Project' of New
Delhi.
The Sub-Collector, Madanapalle observed that PTRRM was
the only organisation in the District to have arranged cases for the
camp.

AIDS AWARENESSPROGRAMME
As a pioneer organization in the District, PTRRM conducted
the First Aids Awareness Programme at Punganur in close co-
ordination with the Chittoor District Aids Committee, S.V.R.R.Medical
College, Tirupathi. Awareness Programmes are regularly being
arranged through public meetingsand group discussionsduring nights
in villages.
PTRRM plans to conduct a blood-screening camp in two
villages, where all women are professional prostitutes.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 485
Development Management: PTRRM

The DistrictAids Committeeappreciatedthe efforts of PTRRM

in this programme.
EMPOWERMENT OF TRIBALS& SEMI-NOMADIC TRIBES
'YANAADEES'

During the last 20 years, PTRRM evinced keen interest for

the empowerment of Tribes, 'YANAADEES' or 'IRULAS' and
"SHIKAREES'. A detailed survey reveals that there are around 600
families of Tribals scattered over remote colonies in Somala,
Chowdepalle and Peddapanjani Mandals.
They are leading a most miserable life without shelter, proper
food, clothing and health by roaming about in forests and collecting
forest produce for earning their daily bread. They are fond of catching
rats, since rat meat is a delicacy for them. They have no urge for
development. Literacy among them is 2 percent the lowest rate..
PTRRM feels that they have got to be re-habilitated in
agriculture. In co-ordinationwith the Revenue Department,the Tribals
are being allotted Government lands for agricultural purpose, house
sites for construction of houses and ration cards.
A constant motivation is indispensable for bringing about a
change in their life style.
The District Collector and the Commissioner for tribal welfare
appreciated the efforts of PTRRM in helping the tribes.

SHIKAREES

'SHIKAREES', a semi-nomadic tribe is a race of Rajasthan

descendents living on hunting of birds and selling of cosmetics.
They move from place to place and live in tents. Their literacy
is also 2 percent. 90 percent of them are poor. They also need to be
re-habilitatedin agriculture.PTRRMhas been makingefforts to secure
lands for them from Government.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
486 NEERU-MEERU

About 10 percent of tribals and Shikarees are already owning

smallholdings. These lands are lying idlewithout being brought under
the plough and require to be reclaimed by clearing.the jungle growth,
levelling, bunding and providing irrigational facilities.
PTRRM is in search of resources in order to bring both the
tribes into the mainstream of life.
ACTIVE INVOLVEMENT IN JANMABHOOMI PROGRAMME
For the last 6 years, PTRRM has been actively involved in
the innovative Rural ReconstructionProgrammel.e.,"PrajalaVaddaku
Palana' (Taking Govt. to the door-steps of the people) and
'Janmabhoomi' (Motherland), launched by Government for active
involvement of the local people to achieve an all-round development
of villages with the concept of self-reliance, cooperation, planning,
participation and learning.
Taking advantage of this opportunity, PTRRM has been
motivating Youth and Women's groups for active involvement in this
programme. Poor and the needy families are being identified for
providing house plots, agricultural lands, ration cards etc. Similarly,
the aged, widows and destitutes are being identified for sanction of
pensions.
TRANSPARENCY
At the Grama Sabhas (Village Assemblies) held during the
"Janmabhoomi Programmes", transparency is being adopted on 12
Watersheds implemented by PTRRM. The implementation of
Watersheds Programmes with details of receipts and expenditure
and the future plans to be taken up are being placed before the Grama
Sabhas for discussion.
The Government appreciated the efforts of PTRRM for its
active involvement in this programme.

"-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organi~tion in Watershed 487
Development Management: PTRRM

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION PROGRAMME

During the last four successive years, PTRRM has taken lip
Awareness Programmes on a large scale on the Role of Women in
Environment, Medicinal Plants, Environmental Protection and Tree
Plantation in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Forests and
Environment through the Deccan Development Society, Hyderabad.
40 Villages have been covered in Chowdepalle and
Peddapanjani Mandals by conducting Public Meetings at night
between 8-10 P.M:The rural people have been educatedon protection
of forests, planting of trees, adverse effects of vehicle pollution,
insanitary drinking water, garbage collection, dust and dirt of
environment, over dosage of chemicals and pesticides, acid rain,
depletion of Ozone layer and about sustainable development in
agriculture. A special attraction of these programmes has been a
large attendance of women.
The villagers are being mobilized through the popular Folk
Media such as 'Kolatam' (Stick Dance), 'Chekka Bhajana' (Wooden
Cymbal Dance), the popular 'Pillanagrovi' (Flute Dance) and 'Gobbi'
(Women's Dance).
The Deccan Development Society complimented PTRRM for
the efforts taken in collecting Medicinal Plants.

ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION PROGRAMME

This programmehas been implementedduring the year 1999-
2000 in collaborationwith the C.P.R. EnvironmentalEducationCentre,
the Nodal Agency for the Union Ministry of HRD by active involvement
in this Programme. Poor and the needy families are being identified
for providing House Plots, Agricultural lands, Ration Cards etc.
Similarly, the aged, widows and distitutes are being identified for
sanction of pensions confining to teachers and students for the reason
that they are the change agents of the society. Realising the

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
488 NEERU - MEERU

importance of creating awareness among students and teachers, this

Programme has been conducted in High Schools.
TRAINING PROGRAMME
Through this programme, 47 teachers from 15 High Schools
and 4,078 students including 1,794 girls from VI, VII and VIII classes
were imparted training on environmental education, local problems
of environmental pollution and remedies were the highlights of
discussions. Teachers were enlightened on the methods of
incorporation of this subject in curriculum and students were exhorted
to play their role as future citizens in protecting the environment.

FOLLOW-UP PROGRAMME
In order to inculcate the habit of plantingtrees, 2,200 saplings
have been planted by students in the premises of High Schools under
the strategy of each student takes care of the sapling planted by him.
Demonstration of Compost-making has been done within School
premises by using the garbage collected. Bust Bins have been
introduced in all the 15 High Schools for collection of garbage. The
"Clean and Green' Programme has been conducted regularly and
the school premises kept clean with the participation of the students
and the teachers.

AN EXPOSURETRIP
An exposure trip has been arranged to Singirigunta "Vana
Samrakshana Samithi' (An Afforestation Programme with the
involvement of the local people) and the students have been given
exercises on identification of plants and birds. The students have
also been shown and explained about the water-harvesting structures
in the forest area. The students actively participated and enjoyed the
trip.

EVALUATION
In order to evaluatethe awareness of students on this subject,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 489
Development Management: PTRRM

a QUIZ Programme was conducted on environmental education and

mementos were given to the winners. Competitions in elocution and
essay writing have been conducted in all the High Schools for VI, VII
and VIII Classes. The participation of students has been highly
encouraging. Winners have been given attractive prizes and
certificates.
Best schools and teachers who have done outstanding work
have also been awarded.
BEST NGO AWARD BY ROTARY CLUB

In close association with the Rotary Club, Punganur, PTRRM

strove for the success of Veterinary Camp at Ramasamudram,Rotary
Village Camp at Chinthamakulapalle, Rotaract of students at
Punganur, Eye Camp at Ramasamudram, Homoeo general camp at
Punganur, Dental Camps at Punganur, Ramasamudramand Somala,
Blood Donation Camp at Punganur and Cancer Detection Camp and
Pulse Polio Camp at Punganur.
The Punganur Rotary Club presented an Award to PTRRM
as the Best NGO at its Occasional Award Programme.
This Project area was under the yoke of a Zamindar (Feudal
Lord) for over 300 years during the pre-independence period. Even
after the independence, this area continues backward especially in
literacy, health and livelihood fields. Although this is a plateau area
elevated at a height of 2,300 ft over and above the sea level, drought
affects often due to failure of monsoon. Since there are no perennial
rivers, irrigation is being done through open wells, small tanks and
surface bores.
Therefore,there is a dire needto supplementthe Government
effort through this Project.
Despite several constraints, PTRRM has been doing a
humble job for empowering the poorest of the poor.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 490 NEERU - MEERU

PTRRM selected for Watershed Development Programme

The DPAP, Chittoor, for the first time during 1999, adopted a
unique method of selecting voluntary organizations with a good track
record for entrusting Watershed Development Projects.
The Assessment Team appointed by the DPAP visited
PTRRM on 06.05.1999, conducted a thorough study of the
programmes of PTRRM and also verified in the field.
The Team was pleased to select PTRRM for implementing
. the Watershed Development Programme.
This organization is alive to the fact that the Assessment
Committee reposed confidence in this organization and selected.
Therefore, PTRRM has taken up the Watershed Development Project
as a prestigious programme.
JUSTIFICATION
This Project area has been declared as a drought-hit area
by the DPAP due to frequent failure of monsoon. When the average
rainfall in Chittoor District is 900 M.M., this area experiences only
554-750 M.M. Drought, in the past, was visiting periodically and there
has been a continuous drought during the last three years. Famine
conditions are prevailing in this area, since rainfall occurs on a remote
day in a remote month during a remote year. Ground Water level has
gone down to a depth of 500 ft in this plateau area and the forest
growth has very much declined. Only 8 percent of rainwater is'being
utilised.
Therefore,Watershed DevelopmentProgrammewill go a long
way in this area for achieving the objectives of reducing soii erosion,
developing ground water as a sustainable resource, promoting
greenery for preservation of soil moisture and liberating the farming
commun'ityfrom poverty by adopting suitable methods of agriculture.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
\ Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 491
Development Management: PTRRM

WATERSHED PROJECT AREA

During 2000-2001, Muthukur, Peddavelagatur and
Chalamangalam Watersheds in the Peddapanjani Mandai were
sanctioned in the V Batch.
During 2001-2003, Irikipenta, Somala-I, Somala-II,
Avulapalle-I, Avulapalle-II, Peddaupparapalle-I, Peddaupparapalle-
II Watersheds in Somala Mandai were sanctioned in the VI Batch.
Chowdepalle, a completed Watershed from I Batch and
Settipeta Watershed from IV Batch in Chowdepalle Mandai, which
were implemented by the S.C. Corporation were handed over to
PTRRM.
Thamminayanipalle Watershed in Somal a Mandai and
Peddakondamarri Watershed in Chowdepalle Mandai, though
sanctioned, could not be commenced since the committees could
not be formed for want of consensus in Grama Sabhas. A severe
political interference was responsible for not reaching consensus in
both the Grama Sabhas. Thus, 11Watershedsare being implemented
by this organization.
WATERSHED COMMITTEES OF WOMEN
An innovative feature is that the Watershed Committees of V
and VI Batches should be formed UNANIMOUSLYwithout any dispute
and exclusively with women from among SHGs, User Groups, S.Cs.
and S.Ts. which leads to Women's Empowerment. It is expected that
Women's Committees would be impartial in implementing the
Watershed Programme. Women's Committees have been !ormed in
Peddavelagatur, Muthukur, Chalamangalam, lrlklpenta, Somala-I,
Somala-II, Avulapalle-I, Avulapalle-ll, Peddaupparapalle-I and
Peddaupparapalle-II Watersheds.

PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION

People's participation plays a vital role in any Development

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
492 NEERU-MEERU

Programme. It is a democratic process through which a Programme

attains success. Its importanceneed not be emphasized in Watershed
Development Programme. It has been realized that water
conservation is an immediate need especially in a drought-stricken
area like this project area. Participatorywatershed management aims
at sustainability. It is the people who have to ultimately manage their
resources. People's participation is being enlisted through motivation,
planning, implementation and evaluation.
PRA techniques were used at every stage.
MOTIVATION
Motivation goes a long way in bringing awareness among
the rural people about the watershed programme. It is being done to
individuals, groups as well as gatherings through interactions.
Pamphlets, photographs, charts and traditional cultural programmes
are being utilized while explaining the salient features of the
programme.

AWARENESS PROGRAMMES
In order to ensure people's participation, systematic
procedures were adopted for creating awareness on the watershed
programme among the people. While forming committees, printed
notices were issued a week in advance indicating the exact date and
time of forming committees. Publlcity was given in every habitation
of each watershed by means of drum-beating, awareness
programmes were conducted to SHGs, Panchayats, s.es, S.Ts and
User Groups. Separate technical sessions were conducted.
PLANNING
Action plans for Watersheds were prepared after thoroughly
identifying locations for taking up soil conservation and water
harvesting structures with the participation of the members of the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 493
Development Management: PTRRM

Committees, SHGs and User Groups. These plans were prepared in

a phased manner for 4-5 years according to the allocation of funds at
16.00 lakhs for V Batch and 24.00 lakhs for VI Batch of watersheds
and placed before the Grama Sabhas for discussion. Approval
was taken for the action plans with a few changes. The action plans
were finally approved by the Project Director, DWMA.

IMPLEMENTATION
Estimates are being prepared and placed before the Grama
Sabhas held once in a month and sanctions obtained for
implementation:
With a view to determine the results of the watershed
programmes, periodical evaluations are being conducted with the
beneficiaries on ground water development, additional area brought
under cultivation, milk-yielding and mitigation of migration and the
observationsdiscussed in the Grama Sabhasfor approval.The SHGs,
User Groups, members of committees are being involved at the time
of mid-term evaluations as well as evaluations conducted by the
Engineering Staff College of India (ESCI).
At every stage the people are being involved in the process
of implementation of the programme.

TRANSPARENCY
This is an another important method, adopted in a Watershed
in order to be credibleto the people.The proceedingsof the Watershed
Committee Formation have been video graphed for verification on
their correctness. Action plans, estimates, receipts & expenditure are
being placed before the Grama Sabhas for discussion and approval.
Bulletins on the progress of watersheds are beiilg distributed
for review in the Janma Bhoomi Grama Sabhas.
Besides, social audit boards as well as wayside broads are
being displayed at conspicuous places on the progressof watersheds.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
494 NEERU - MEERU

Watershed progress is being highlighted through the press

from time to time.
PROGRESSOF WORKS AS ON 21.11.2003
I. (1) SOIL CONSERVATION STRUCTURES
For prevention of soil erosion and ground water development,
Rock fill dams (GCs), Sunken Pits and CCTs have been done in an
extent of 68.15 Ha at a total cost of Rs.7,15,679/- GCs check the
speed of the water by making the running water walk and as result,
water percolates down.
Peripheral trenches have been excavated in Irikipenta and
Avulapalle-II Watersheds and the local people are convinced with
the results of soil conservation and ground water development. There
is a demand for this programme.But, labourersare not comingforward
to take up this work under manual labour. The machine rate is not
working up. Therefore, small and marginal farmers are not coming
forward to take up this programme.
The trenches excavated in Avulapalle-II Watershed were
appreciated by the District Officers' Team and the P.O. during their
evaluations.

I. (2) A UNIQUE PROGRAMME OF BUNDING

Under the Food For Work-I Programme, field bunding was
launched in an unprecedented manner.
Adverse seasonal conditions prevailed during the early
monsoon period from June to August during 2001. 'Food For Work'
was taken-up during this period in order to provide employment to
the drought-affected people. This work enabled mitigationof migration
to a great extent.

LABOUR DISAPPOINTED

The bunding rate was enhanced from Rs.13/- to 26/- per

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 495
Development Management: PTRRM

cubic metre due to drought. Most of the rain-fed lands were lying
fallow. During the months of September and October, there was a
good rainfall and as a result, the soil got loosened. Taking advantage
of the softness of soil, coolies in an average, could easily turn out
work around 6 cubic metres of earthwork. But, they could not get the
wage of Rs.156/-, being the value of work done. Because, as per the
S.S.R., the rate fixed for a manday was only RS.73/-. Therefore,
Coolies were disappointed since payment was not made as per
measurement.
Settipeta, Peddaupparapalle - II, Chalamangalam and
Peddavelagatur watersheds had set an example to others, where
the coolies were directly involved by eliminating contractors.
PTRRM did not take up the controversial programme of
supply channels under this programme.
During the FFW-I, works were taken up in 160 blocks to the
tune of 28 lakhs generating 24,000 man-days. Wages were paid
through a rice component of 4,02,727 kgs and a cash component of
Rs. 5,24,592/-.
The Project Director made a surprise visit to Chalamangalam
Watershed, enquired the S.Cs and was satisfied about their
involvement in the Bunding Programme.
II. WATER HARVESTING STRUCTURES
1) PERCOLATION TANKS - A BOON FOR WATERSHED
PROGRAMME

The four - water concept of the innovative technology

developed by Or.T.Hanumantha Rao, Retired Chief Engineer and
Chairman, Technical Committee (WCM), Neeru-Meeru opened the
eyes of the Watershed Implementing Agencies.
While addressing the PIAs, MOTs and Others at Chittoor on
12.02.2002, Or.Hanumantha Rao advised that atleast 35 Mini-PTs

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
496 NEERU - MEERU

-
need be constructed in each watershed. He said that at the
commencement of each gully, a P.T. should necessarily be
constructed. He also said that earthem bunds should be constructed
across tributaries of streams, Dr.Rao explainedthe cost effectiveness
as well as usefulness of P.Ts when compared to Check Dams. In
fact, everyone expressed the doubt whether it would be possible for
constructionof 35 PTs in eachwatershed.But,the guidelinesof Dr.Rao
and the motivation of the P.O. shattered the doubt and as many as
18,000 PTs came into existence in the district when 343 P.Ts were
constructed in the project area of PTRRM within a couple of months.
This district therefore occupied the first place in the State. Since
there was an acute drought at that time, the PTs remained dry. Later,
with a scanty rainfall, there was an increaseof 1 Metre of groundwater
level in the wells on the down-stream side of P.Ts.
Sincethese P.Ts were constructedon the ridge portion,where
unreclaimed lands of the weaker sections are lying, they served the
real purpose of the S.Cs, S.Ts and marginal farmers for bringing their
lands under plough as well as developing horticultural gardens.
Besides, these P.Ts have provided water to cattle. P.Ts have proved
to be a boon to a watershed.
It may be mentioned that P.Ts have changed the face of
watersheds. Therefore, more people are coming forward for P.Ts.
PTRRM has constructed 478 PTs till September 2003 at a
cost of Rs.66,29,294/- in 11 watersheds.
These P.Ts have proved better results due to the rainfall from
June to October, 2003.
The Project Director and the Mid-term Evaluator expressed
satisfaction at the construction of the P.Ts.

CONSTRUCTION OF CHECKWALLS

Cement works will be taken up in the Valley portion only after

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Ellorts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 497
Development Management: PTRRM

exhausting treatment on the ridge portion. Therefore, only 34 check

walls have been constructed at a cost of Rs.3,62,448/-.
DUGOUT PONDS
These ponds were constructed where dam construction was
not possible, natural depressions were selected for providing drinking
water to livestock and for lifesaving irrigation. 237 Dugout Ponds
were constructed at a cost of Rs.16,98,526/-.

DEVELOPMENT OF HORTICULTURE

There is an increasing demand for Dry Land Horticultural

Development. Small and marginal farmers are keen on planting fruit
trees since the traditional rain-fed crop of groundnut has been a total
failure for a continuous period of 4 years due to chronic drought. The
demand is more for mango plants. A few farmers have asked for
Sapota plants. Assistance is being provided at Rs.12-19 for each
fruit plant. The cost of fruit plants is being paid to beneficiaries only
after verification of pits dug by themselves, and the grafts planted in
order to ensure proper utilisationof the assistance.An extent of 646.49
Ha has been covered at a cost of Rs.6,96,884/-.

AFFORESTATION

The forest wealth with species of rosewood, sandalwood and

bamboo that existed4 decades back in this proiectarea have declined.
Therefore, farmers are being motivated to plant saplings. 2,94,560
saplings of eucalyptus, glyricedia, teak, jamun, acacia, hybrid
drumstick etc., species were distributed to the needy farmers and
covered an area by 267.8 Ha through the centralized nurseries set-
up at Muthukur, Irikipenta and Avulapalle.
Survival of plants has been encouraging this year when
compared to the last 2 years of drought.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
498 ~EERU - MEERU

INSTALLATION OF BIOGAS PLANTS

145 Biogas plantswere installedin Chalamangalam,Somala-

I, Somala-II, Irikipenta, Avulapalle-I, Avulapalle-II and
Peddaupparapalle-I watersheds in collaboration with the Department
of Non-conventional Energy. A Subsidy of Rs.10001- was paid for
each biogas plant from the Watershed Funds and the remaining
portion was met by the Department.
The beneficiary women are much pleased with the benefits
of the Biogas plants.

INSTALLATION OF SMOKELESSCHULAHS

415 Smokeless Chulahs were installed in Peddavelagatur

and Muthukur watersheds in collaboration with the Department of
the Non-Conventional Energy.
The beneficiaries of hut-dwellers are happy at the usefulness
of the Chulahs.
PROMOTION OF SERICULTUREINDUSTRY

'V-1', a high-yielding variety of Mulberry cuttings were

distributed to 25 farmers convening an extent of 5 Ha at a total cost
of Rs.25,OOOI- as subsidy in order to promote sericulture industry.
This project area, situated at an altitude of 2,300 ft above the
sea level, provides a congenial weather for the development of
Sericulture industry.
In an extent of 0-50 cents ot mulberry garden, each
beneficiary derives an annual income of about Rs.30,OOOI- through 6
crops. A farmer gets a higher income in this industry when compared
to the conventional crops.
Farmers are motivated to go in for this enterprise.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 499
Development Management: PTRRM

RESULTSOF THE PROGRAMMES (2000-2001 to 2003-2004)

CREATION OF WATER CAPACITY

Through the water-harvesting structures during th7 last 3

years, 5,76,928cubic metres of water capacity has been created in
all the 11 watersheds.
INCREASEIN GROUND WATER LEVEL

Rainfall has been recorded as follows during the ensuring

monsoon period from June to October, 2003.

51. Rainguage Rainfall Recorded Average Annual

No. Station (M.Ms.) Rainfall (MMs)
'1 Peddapanjani 6'22 826
-
2 Chowdepalle 743
3. Somala 747
" As a result of the above rainfall, water resources received
water as follows:-
......
51. Name of the Total No, in No. in No. in ,Empty
No. Structure Structures full half quarterr: Sources

1. Percolation 478 219 121 38 100

Tanks
2. Check Walls 26 24 2 - -
Total 504 243 123 38 100
Therefore, there has been an increase of 3 Metres of ground water
level in the open wells and 1 inch in the Bore wells.
ADDITIONAL AREA UNDER CULTIVATION

740 h.a. of additional area has been brought under cultivation

as a result of the rainfall. But, the railfall is not adiquate, since it is

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 500 NEERU-MEERU

less than the average rainfall. Many tanks are still empty.
MILK PRODUCTION
There has been an increase of 2,200 litres of milk every day
in all the 11 Watersheds. .
ENHANCEMENT OF WAGE COMPONENT: Rs.2S/-per day.
MITIGATION OF MIGRATION: 60 percent.
RELEASES AND EXPENDITURE
As against a total Release of Rs.1,60,85,499/-, an amount of
. Rs.1,36,91,986 has been spent leaving a balance of Rs.23,93,S13/-.
IMPEDIMENTS
This Organization confesses that its experience in the
watershed project are Limited to a period of only three years.
At the outset, it may be said that everything is not going well
with watersheds. Certain impediments are being faced in the field
and as for as possible solutions are being found to overcome them.
APATHY OF BENEFICIARIES
The first impediment is the apathy of the beneficiaries (User
Group members) towards watershed programmes. Despite the best
motivation, some of the beneficiaries are not coming forward to take
up works. Taking this as an advantage, small contractors are trying
to exploit the situation. In order to check contractors, agreements
are being obtained from the beneficiaries and cheques are being
issued to them. The beneficiaries are convinced when they are
explained about the disadvantages they would face, if the watershed
programmes are not utilized on time. Self-help groups are being
motivated to take-up works in order to preventthe entry of contractors.

PROFIT - MAKING ATTITUDE

The attitude of a majority of the beneficiaries is profit making

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 501
Development Management: PTRRM

. which is detrimental to the objective of a watershed: This attitude IS

because of contract culture. The rates in Panchayat Raj and Irrigation
Departments are higher than the rates of watersheds. Therefore, the
beneficiaries think in terms of other Departments. For instance, the
rate fixed for rough stone dry packing in watersheds is Rs.190/- per
cubic metre when the rate fixed in Panchayat Raj Department is
Rs.340/-. Similarly, the rate.fixed for laying concrete in watersheds is
RS.900/- per cubic metre, where as it is Rs.1300/- in P.R Department.
In a watershed, contract system-is eliminated because the beneficiary
is expected to do the work himself. Therefore watershed rates are
lesser than the other Departments. However, a beneficiary gets a
marginal profit in a watershed even after maintaining quality.

COMPETITION FOR CHAIRPERSONSHIP

There was a keen competition for chairpersonship in V and
VI batches of watersheds while forming Women's Committees. It was
gathered that budget of a watershed as well as the power of issuing
cheques had attracted chairpersonship. After election, the
chairpersons are not evincing interest in their responsibilities. It is
true that they are under the influence of their husbands.
In spite of the best motivation, there was an allegation that 3
out of 11 chairpersons tried to collect illegal .gratifications from the
beneficiaries while signing cheques. Immediate action was taken to
curb the practice by issuing cheques in Grama Sabhas.

FUNCTIONING OF GRAMA SABHAS

In a majority of watersheds, the attendance was not
satisfactory. In order to overcome the problem, Gramasabhas are
being held habitation-wise, where there is better participation.
The beneficiaries are being insisted upon attending
Gramasabhas and presenting their representations for approval by
Gramasabhas.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-------
 502
NEERU - MEERU

MAINTENANCE OF QUALITY

A constant monitoring at different stages of works alone will

ensure quality. The Ccrrrmunlty organizer in -a watershed is
responsible for maintaining quality. But, he is likely to come under
a
the influence of the committee, since he is local candidate.
In spite of the best care, there are slight lapses in some cases.
Such beneficiaries do not relish about questioning of quality. If the
bills paid as per check measurement are not according to their
expectations, a few beneficiaries make a hue and cry and they do
not hesitate to blackmail the PIA in the Gramasabhas of
Janmabhoomi. It happened like that in two Gramasabhas.-ln order to
.'avoid such unpleasantness, such works are being reviewed in
watershed Gramasabhas and approval taken as per guidelines. The
proceedings of Grama Sabhas serve as an answer to such
unwarranted complaints.
CRITICISM AGAINST NGOs

Public have a wrong notion that all NGOs are getting foreign
funds and they are making money out of the projects without knowing
the realities. A mention may be made that there are a number of
organizations exclusively working with only local resources and co-
ordination of Development Departments.
Intelligence and Anti-Corruption Departments collect
information aboutNGOs. Of course, public opinion is also a yardstick
about the genuinenessof NGOs. It is said that accordingto Intelligence
and Anti-Corruption Departments, in some cases, corruption exists
at different stages of preparation of estimates, recording of
measurements and payment - making. PTRRM had to change 4 WDT
Engineers, since they worked against its objectives. Accountability
through transparency is the only answer to such criticism.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh--,----
 Efforts of aVoluntary Organization in Watershed 503
Development Management: 'PTRRM

CRITICISM IN PRESS

Observers feel that some of the Mandai - level newspaper

reporters have been publishing unfair criticism in dailies ignoringfacts
in watersheds. Such negative reporting is no doubt, one - sided. The
reporters should give an opportunity to PIAs or committees to give
their version on the allegations, if any, before publishing news,
sometimes, it is said that imaginative news is being published with
~><concotted stories. The motive of such reporters is being suspected.
No doubt, the public will be misleading with distorted news. But, the
local people, who are aware of the facts will not believe such
unfounded news, and as a result, the accountability of the newspaper
will be impaired. Therefore, the press is being invitedto see the results
of watersheds for themselves.

SUSTAINABILITY
The main objective of a watershed programme is
sustainability, because, people have to manage their resources
themselves in the 'exit period. This can be achieved only through
people's partlclpation. Observers feel that sustainability in the
completed watersheds is not encouraging. A feeling of community
ownership is yet to be achieved. It is hoped that sustainability will be
achieved in the long-run.
The community must protect its assets created in a
watershed, which is being repeatedly explained in Gramasabhas.
There are a few caseswhere the watershedstructureswere damaged.
In two Watersheds, 5 G.es and a P.T. were damaged. The
beneficiaries alleged that some. miscreants had damaged the
structures, repeated requests to restore them by the beneficiaries
themselves made a deaf ear. Finally, they were called before the
Grama Sabhas and were warned. The damaged structures were at
last got restored by the beneficiaries without spending watershed
funds.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh---------
504 NEERU-MEERU

Sustainability is non-existent in Panchayat Raj and Irrigation

Departments. There is no such message in those Deportments.Since
water conservation is the common programme, watershed
mechanism should be followed in the other Deportments too.
People's participation is being enlisted through collection of
cash from beneficiaries towards Watershed Development Fund of
10 Percent. A majority of the beneficiariesare not willingly contributing
to the W.D.F.

GUIDELINES NOT IMPLEMENTED PROPERLY

The watershed guidelines have been formed for enlisting

people's participation, but, they are not being implemented properly
because priorities are differing due to individual priorities. A uniform
system needs to be followed by successive adrnlnlstration.
TARGET ORIENTED

At times, physical targets are given more importance than

the guidelines especially in the matter of progress of expenditure
prescribing weekly targets, since this programme involves motivation,
planning and implementation, targets should be practicable.
Delay in the release of grants to PIAs and inordinate delay in
completing works by the beneficiaries are also causing problems to
show progress of work.
PEOPLE'SPRIORITIES TO BE FOLLOWED

People's priorities should be prevailed by focusing on the

needs of farmers, For instance, priority for bunding has not been
given because of irregularities committed during the Food for Work
Programme. On the other hand, sustainability was not observed in
bunding since the farmers ploughed up the bunds.
Ridge to valley treatment isa must in a watershed. A majority
of the beneficiaries in the ridge portion are S.Cs, S.Ts and small

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 505
Development Management: PTRRM

farmers. Therefore, priority for bunding is a real need for prevention

of soil erosion and conservation of moisture. It has been proved that
there is an additional field of 25 percent as a result of bunding.
A remedy to the sustainability lies in the PIT SYSTEM of
bunding, small fields should be exempted from bunding since bund
formation occupies a considerable area. One of the reasons for the
irregularities committed during the FFW. Programme was the
enhanced rate of Rs. 26/- per cubic metre. The,old rate of Rs.13/-
Per cubic metre may be restored, so that the beneficiary will have to
contribute either in kind or cash to complete the work.

SETTLEMENTOF DISPUTES
Disputes and controversies are being settled through
Gramasabhas as per guidelines.The guidanceof M.D.Ts is also being
taken for this purpose. Frequent visits of M.D.Ts to watersheds wi!1
go a long way in extending technical guidance to PIAs. The plea of
M.D.Ts is that they have unwieldy areas. This gap should be narrowed
in view of the efficiency of works.

GREATERRESPONSIBILITY OF PIAs
The PIA bears a greater responsibility in the field. The PIA is
responsible to the Project Director on one side and MOTs onme
other. On the third side, the PIA is respansible to the Committees,
beneficiaries as well as people. On the fourth side, he has to face the
EvaluationTeams. An additionalresponsibilityiswith the staff including
the controversiai WDT (Engineer). The PIA must work the whole day
with answering Telephone calls from beneficiaries, OWMA, MOTs;
attending frequent review meetings and administration work, field
visits, etc. If anything goes wrong anywhere, ultimately it is the PIA
who will be the scapegoat.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

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508 NEERU - MEERU

WATERSHEDSAT A GLANCE AS ON 21-11-2003

2000-2001 TO 2003-2004

PROJECTAREA
, 11 Watersheds including S From VI Batch, 4 From V Batch,
and 1 From IV Batch in Peddapenlanl, Chowdepalle and Somala
Mandals.
Commencement From 2000-2001
No. of women'scommittees 10 Committees
Field bunding (FFWI) No. of Blocks
covered 160
Estimated Works Rs.28.00 Lakhs
Rice distributed 4,02,727 Kgs
Cash paid Rs 5,24,952/-
Percolation tanks: No. Constructed 478
Expenditure Rs 66,29,294/-
Check walls No. Constructed 27
Expenditure Rs 3,62,4481-
Horticulture , Area covered : 646,49Ha
Expenditure Rs 6,96,884/-
Afforestation Area Covered 267.8 He
Saplings planted 2,94,560
Expenditure Rs. 3,86,323/-
Bio-gas plants No; installed 145
Watershed
Contribution Rs 1,45,000/-
,Smokeless chulahs No. installed 145 Chulahs

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 509
Development Management: PTRRM

sencunure development Area covered

under "v-1" Variety 5 Ha
No. of beneficiaries 25
Subsidy paid Rs 25,000/-
Water capacity created 5,76,928CuM
Increase in water levels Wells 3 Mts
Bores 1-lnch
Additional area brought
under cultivation 740 Hectares
Increase in milk production 2,200 Ltrs. 'per day
Enhancement of wage
component Rs 25/- Per day
Mitigation of migration 60 Percent
Total releases Rs.1,60,85,499/-
Total expenditure Rs 1,36,91,986/-
Balance Rs 23,93,513/-

COMMENDATION FOR THE W~TERSHED DEVELOPMENT

PROGRAMME

This is the first time thatthis organization has taken up the

Watershed Development Programme.
This organization is one among the 43 N.G.Os in the District
implementing the Watershed Development Programme for the last 3
years.
The Project Director, D.P.A.P., Chittoor in his review, has
recorded as follows:-

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
510 NEERU - MEERU

1) "Most of the PIA heads are totally leaving the Programme on WDT
members and neither inspecting the works nor interacting with
the supervisory team in the field except PTRRM, Chowdepalle".
2) "As seen from the reports and as per the observations, it has
been noticed that the only PIA Sri Ramakrishnaiah, PTRRM,
Chowdepalle is very prompt in sending reports in time and
spending time while sending the data and structure inspection".
3) During the Mid-term Evaluation of Peddavelagatur and Muthukur
Watersheds on 18-01-2003, the efforts of PTRRM have been
commended. DrKKesavaReddy,I.F.S.(Retd), Formerly Principal
Chief Conservator of Forests and Evaluator observed as follows:-
a) Peddavelagatur Watershed
"Water harvesting structures are effectively and economically
formed. The initiative and work of the PIA and the staff is
commendable".
b) Muthukur Watershed
"The dug-out Ponds, mini percolation tanks and field bunds
made are well executed. It was nice to find water in a few
tanks visited"
4) During the Mid-term Evaluation of Peddaupparapalle-IWatershed
on 11.09.2003, DrKKesava Reddy, I.F.S.(Retd.) and Formerly
Chief Conservator of Forests and Evaluator observed as follows:-
"It is seen that certain works in the watershed were executed
through women's groups which is laudable".
"More area has been brought under cultivation wth paddy as a
result of more structures,"
"It is heartening to see that Kanuga, C.Siamia plants are planted
on the toe lines of the dug out ponds and percolation tanks.
"Under afforestation activity, planting was done in spite of drought

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

 Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 511
Development Management: PTRRM

conditions existing in these places".

The PIA and the staff in the organization need commendation for
good execution of works.

PTRRM WINS LAURELS

• The UNICEF-laudedthe efforts put forth by PTRRMfor the success

of the Immunization Programme during 1990.
• District Collector appreciated the efforts made for the Tribal
Development Programme during 1990.
• PTRRM bagged the State Youth Award in 1991for the outstanding
voluntary services rendered in the field o~Rural Development and
Social Service.
• The Prize of the State Government for the Integrated Family
Welfare Project in 1991 adorned the PTRRM.
• The District Aids Committee appreciated for conducting 'Aids
Awareness Programmes' in 1992.
• The World Bank Team appreciated for promotion of Sericulture in
.1994.
• 'Deccan DevelopmentSociety', Hyderabadcommendedthe efforts
made for the Environmental Protectioa Programme in 1996.
• The Rotary Club at Punganur presented an Award as the best
N.G.O. in 1996.
• The State Government awarded a prize for active involvement in
the 'Janma Bhoomi' Programme during 1999.
• The Authorities and Local people appreciated the literacy,
Women's Empowerment and support to the Physically
Handicapped Programmes.
• The Project Director, D.P.A.P., Chittoor commended the
commitment of PTRRM for implementation of the Watershed

----- Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D
InstituteofAndhraPradesh-----
512 NEERU-MEERU

Development Programme during 2002.

• During the Mid-term Evaluations of watersheds on 18.01.2003
and 9.11.2003, the Evaluator has commended the efforts of PIA
and staff.

Source:-

Sri Gundala Ramakrishnaiah, Founder-President, The

Punganur Taluk Rural Reconstruction Movement (PTRRM), 2-
- .
214, Hosp"ital Road, Chowdepalle-517 257, Chlttoor District, A.P.
Phone:(085a1) 56250. The Fc;>under-President of this organization
had the privilege of representing India in the 'Council of International
Program for Youth Leaders and Social workers', Cleveland, Ohio,
U.S.A, for 16 weeks during 1966 along with the delegates from 64
countries, underwent a course in social work in the University of .
Pennsylvania and visited Philadelphia, Washington & New York,
besides visiting Europe.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

Efforts of a Voluntary Organization in Watershed 513
Development Management: PTRRM

PHOTOGRAPHS SHOWING THE WORKS

COMPLETED BY PTRRM

People's Participation in renovation of a tank in

Peddaupparapalle-I Watershed

Percolation Tank across - Gundralla Guttavanka near

Chinnamuddepalle in Chalamangalam Watershed

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
514 NEERU - MEERU

A Rockfill Dam Across Kapparillagutta Vanka

in Irikipenta Watershed

Percolation Tank at Peddapanjani Mandai, Muttukur Watershed

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 18
NEERU-MEERU -: SUCCESS STORIES
As a result of efforts made by various departments involved
in Neeru-Meeru Programme, it is very interesting to mention here a
couple of success stories in respect to Neeru-Meeru programme. It
is to be noted here, the credit for these success stories goes to the
concerted efforts made by the division of the departments mentioned
earlier. In terms of the future action, the success stories are a
motivating factor.

Bunding is the answer to pebble trouble

An innovative method of pebble bunding seems to be a
solution to the problems of farmers in the backward Ananthapur
district. As if drought is not enough, the farms in many parts of
Ananthapur district, particularly in the,mandals of Kudair, Kalyandurg
and Atmakur, are strewn with pebbles posing multiple problems to
the farmers. Pebble-strewnfields require hard labour at various stages _
of cultivation like ploughing, sowing and weeding, The lands with 3 to
4 percent slope filled with pebbles result in high rainwater runoff and
soil erosion. As removing of pebbles is a tedious job, farmers have to
engage more labour at a higher cost. 'Besides, the cattle working in
the fields face untold miseries. So much so, the farmers have to
change their cattle every couple of years, adding a further burden
due to low crop yield. The district authorities, in close coordination
with NGQs like Rayalaseema DevelopmentTrust have found an easy
answer to this nagging problem. Pebbles are swept and are moved
in a bullock cart and formed into bunds. Bunds are covered with soil
and grass sown. It is a labour-oriented activity with total wage
component providing employmentfor agriculture labour. Farmers use
or share their bullocks and carts to a place where bund is formed,

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh---";"_-

516 NEERU-MEERU

making it economical.
It is observed pebble bunding is a demand driven, soil and .:
moisture conservation activity being taken up under watershed
development programme in the district.
Quoting the benefits of such an innovation, a farmer of Seboi
village, Mr. K.S.Reddy says that he had done pebble bunding in his
five-acre land as suggested by Water Shed Development Team
engaging 20 workers every day for ten days last year..
He and his better half also joined in removing pebbles and
forming two bunds along the gullies in the farm. Out of Rs. 6300 he
had spent, his contribution was Rs. 500 and the results were very
encouraging. On account of bundirig, Mr.Reddy proudly claims that
there was reduction in soil erosion and increase in groundwater level.
The labour requirement was reduced by 50 per cent and the yield
had gone upby three to four bags as a result of better and early plant
sprout. Above all, Mr. Reddy adds" agriculture activity is no longer a
painful exercise for humans and as well as for live stock".
SUSTAINED EFFORTS BRING BENEFITS

Once a forest area, Gaddamallaiah Gunda (VSS area) under

Yacharam mandai of Ranga Reddy district was degraded to such an
extent that its density was reduced to less than 0.1 percent. The area
is hilly and undulating. With its topsoil getting eroded there was no
percolation of water leading to drying up of agriculture wells and even
drinking water borewells. But things are looking up here.
Over a period of four years, SMC regeneration works were
taken up in the area according to NABARD-Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund (RIDF) norms. These included construction of
156 rock filled dams, digging 8829 cmts of ContinuousContourTrench
(CCT), construction of one checkdam, 9 percolation tanks and
regeneration works such as silviculture operations covering 120

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories . 517

hectares. All this led to impounding of 1.25 lakh cubic meters (lcm)
water. The VSS members, who undertook these works, also involved
themselves in forest protection activities. The results have been
fantastic. And how?
Dried up open wells are recharged with sufficient water. In
such wells that had dried up, 'water level rose by 6 metres during
October,.2001-02. Water in all tube wells was available {20metres}
. during the same period. The cultivated area adjoiningforest boundary
too went up to 24 acres during that year
This has led to availability ~f groundwater from the shallow
depths of alluvium. This has also improved groundwater availability
in wells. Water is available even till May and June. Thus a bane has
been turned into a boon through sub surface dykes.

SMALL.WORKS, BIG .PROFITS

Here is an example of how a small work led to big profits.

Nobody knows when the feeder canal bfRacheru of Gopavarampalli
in Kalasapadu village of Cuddapah district was last desilted. But over
the-years there had been heavy siltation of the main source that fed
the tank. After the rains, there was a heavy overflow that submerged
"the nearby agricultural fields damaging the crop.
Watershed fUndswere utilisedfor the desiltation work costing
RS.0.71lakh and 1600 RMTs were completed under the third phase
of Neeru Meeru in 2001..
. Now the tank receives water directly from the catchment
without damaging agricultural fields thus generating higher profits to
the farmers.

THEY GET WORK HERE

Time waswhen inhabitants of Annasagar village in Yalal

mandai of Ranga Reddydistrict had to go to the neighbouring Tandur

----~Dr.M.C.RHRD Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh·-----
518 NEERU - MEERU

to work in stone cutting work spots for earning their livelihood. The
reason: not enough work for them in their own village since wells
would dry up. But these people find work in their own village now.
Things have changed since 1995-96with many works taken up under
watershed programme. A checkdam was constructed in September
last in a field owned by P.Narasimha Reddy costing Rs.97,000. As a
result 12 borewells were recharged. Three open wells, belonging to
K. Bichi Reddy, Venkatappa and P.Narasimha Reddy were also
recharged. Narasimha Reddy says now they can raise three crops
on 40-acre land in a year. Ranga Reddy District Collector Mr.Ajay
Jain and Ms.Shallala Ramaiyer, Project Director, DPAP who visited
the village, were impressed by the turn around the village had
achieved.

- -
Checkdam constructed at Annasagar in Ranga Reddy District.
(Source:- www.wcmap.org)
Medak ... Sprinkler Irrigation

Efficient water use is possible by using drip and sprinkler

methods for irrigation. More than 50% water can be saved compared
to flood irrigation and productivity of crop is better. This automatically
discourages paddy cultivation. In Chinna Kodur mandai of Medak
district the sprinkler sets with 100% bank assistance is provided to
1250 farmers covering an extent of 4000 acres. This was possible

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
 Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 519

through proper planning of training and exposure visits to the farmers

and involvingbanker in all aspects. The successfulfarmers in Metpalle
.and Machapur villages shared their experiences with farmers of other
villages. The entire process is facilitated successfully by DPAP,
. Medak. *
(*Source:- Water Conservation Mission, Government of Andhra
Pradesh, Hyderabad.)

Success Story - Kaluvapalli

Kaluvapalli village is situated in Beluguppa mandai of
Anantapur district. The village is around 32 km from the district
headquarters on the way to Kalyandurg. The average annual rainfall
of the village is 520 mm. Watershed activities have been started in
this village in the year 2001-2002 under Rural Infrastructure
Development Fund (RIDF)-VI scheme.
Village Statistics befdre the commencement of Watershed Activity:

Total geographical 3286.5 ha

Area under cultivation 2310.5 ha
Area' under surface irrigation Nil.
Area under groundwater irrigation 80 ha
Area under rainfed cultivation 2230.52 ha
Total Population 2261 (SC: 441; ST:276;.
BC:927; OC:617
Livestock Population 3523
No. of open wells 8
No. of bore wells 50
\.Migration percentage 30%
From the surveys conducted for watershed activities it had
been noted that 150 acres under irrigation under a distributory of

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
520 NEERU - MEERU

Pennar River has gone dry since 20 years due to siltation of the
distributory and also due to the erratic and failure of monsoon. Due
to improper maintenance the distributory has silted up and all the
diversion walls, sluices and retaining walls constructed during
Britishers period way back in 1900 have been either damaged or
silted up. Even though there were 150 acres under irrigation owned
by 150 farmers in this distributory there were no farmers association
or Water Users Association to take care of the maintenance after
1984.
The farmers of the ayacut were not ready to do the desilting
and improvement works since.they were n?t sure of getting water.
So it was decided to take the improvement work under watershed
programme. The work was started in'January, 2002 with an estimated
, .' .
cost of 4.42 lakhs for a length of 8.50 KMs. After the improvements
.were carried out to the distributory 120 acres were brought under
irrigation. Around 73 farmers (SC-6; BC-26; OC-51) have benefited
due to this. Out of the 120 acres 40 acres is being cultivated with
paddy and 80 acres with sunflower. Even if they get a minimum
yield of 8 quintals of sunflower per acre the total yield will be 640
quintals amounting to 10.241akhs(@Rs.1600 per quintal). The total
yield of paddy will be around 1000 quintals(@25 quintals per acre)
amounting to 7.00 lakhs (@Rs.700 per quintal). The total income
from this 120 acres is Rs.17.24 lakhs. Even if the cost of cultivation
is 50% of this the net profit will be Rs.8.62 lakhs. Further, the area
under irrigation is expected to increase in the coming season
Restoration of chain tanks under Neeru-Meeru

The programme for restoration of chain tanks has been

undertaken in a big way in the district under the Neeru-Meeru
programme, following its success in 2001.
A total of 18 major chain tank systems covered under the
geddas (hillstreams) have been taken up for restoration in 2002. Of

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 521

them, 11 fall in Patapatnam, Meliaputti and Hiramandalam mandals.

The tanks linked range from a minimum of three under Kondagedda
system in Hiramandalam mandai to a maximum of 20 under
Anthiligedda system, according to the District Collector, K. S. Jawahar
Reddy, who visited all the systems.
. ' ..
The 11 systems link up a total of 93 tanks with an ayacut ot .
3,344.9 hectares. The area offers good scope for the restoration as it
. has old gOOdasystems .and a good catchment ,.
area. .The works 'are
taken up with funds from RIDF market committee and those
earmarkedfor drought.They are being executedunderthe supervision
of K.M.V. Prasada Rao, Patapatnam Nodal Officer, who has
successfully restored a system last year. The Chief Minister had also
directed that the chain tank restoration programme be undertaken in
other districts following its success.in Srikakulam.
" Dr. Reddy said apart from these systems, two were taken up
in Ichchapuram. 'Other systems being taken up are at Eedula and
Kotta tank (Rs. 12.75Iakhs) and Sandemmagedda system (Rs. 24.86
lakhs) in Nandigam mandai, Sanjukodu system (Rs. 30 lakhs) in
Mandasa mandai, Garibulagedda system in Kotabommali mandai
(Rs' 70. lakhs), Kiridivalasa system in Hiramandalam,
GarlQammasagaramandNereyanasaqerern (Rs.·10lakhs) in Kanchili
mandaI. Besides, the ITDA Project Officer, Sanjay Kumar" has,
identified 15 works in Sitampeta, Meliaputti and Mandasa at a cost of,
Rs. 1.2 crores. These works were aWaiting approval. (The Hindu,
Friday, May 17, 2002.)
, . CHAIN OF TANKS SYSTEMIN CHITTCOR DISTRICT

TOTAL CHAINS IDENTIFIED 100 ""I

TAKEN-UP ON PILOT BASIS 1

NAME OF THE CHAIN D.K. PALL!
No. OF TANKS IN THE CHAIN 58
TOTAL CATCHMENT AREA 21.73 Sq. miles

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
522 NEERU - UEERU

I LENGTH OF CHAIN 31.0'Kms I

C 'EXISTING AYACUT 630 Acres. )
.
,
Benefits:
• Stabilization of an ayacut of 630 Acres.
• Meeting the Drinking water requirements of Kuppam Town.
• To conserve I accommodate of 80 MCM of Water through
strenothening Tanks in Chains.
CHAIN OF TANKSIN KUPPAMCONSTITUENCY
Tanks Div.
links
Nameof No.of No.of propo Cha
No.of Total sed to formed nnell
the Tanks Tanks
under
Mandai PR MJ. chains links be cove FFWP Isola
red ted
Tanks
Kupparn 114 9 22 119 120 62 3
Gudupalli 114 5 15 145 146 99 33
Shanthipurarn 111 5 11 89 106 69 16
Rarnakupparn 96 1 22 19 89 62 14
YoKota 119 5 24 139 140 99 44
Total 680 31 100 571 601 391 110
Picture showing Feeder / Supply Channel In Chittoor District

1IIIIIIi___ Series of Diversion weirS

(Pick up Anicuts) across
River Papagni in
Tanakal Mandai taken
up under RIDFVIII
(Phase - I) A Successful
Experiment in
Anantapur District.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D InstituteofAndhra Pradesh-----

Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 523

The river Papagni starts from Nandi Hills in Karnataka state

and enters into Anantapur District near Verrapalli (V) in Tanakal
Mandai and runs for a length of 48 Kms covering Tanakal and
N.P.Kunta Mandalsin the district.
The Tanakal Mandai is a backward area and a drought
affected Mandai in Anantapur district. Across river Papagni; number
of temporary oddus (obstruction with rocks etc.,) are formed and
farmers had been drawing water to their paddy fields. The oddus
used to' be formed with mud and stones across the river. Whenever
the river gets floodwater in rainy season, the oddus were very often
causing breaches at several places which used to affect the ayacut
under the oddus. The ryots were spending more time and energy in '
restoring the oddus instead of attending to their regular work.
Hence, it was proposed to construct diversion weirs (7 Nos.)
across the river Papagni in between Yerrapalli (V) and C.G.Projects
on permanent basin in Tanakal Mandai at a cost of 18.58 lakhs under
RIDF -VIII (Phase-I) to bring in an ayacut of 625 acres. Now, all the
diversion weirs (pickup Anicuts) (7 No's) are constructed on time and
kept ready for drawing water in the ensuring rainy season.The farmers
of 8 villages are feeling extremely happy and they get assured water
to 625 acres and this will have a positive impact on the Socio -
economic condition of the people in the eight villages. Similarly, this
type of structures (which have been described under various names
as Pickup anicuts I Diversion weirs I Kanjus I Groynes) have been
constructed on rivers i.e., Pennar, Kuthaleru,Vangaperu, Chitravathi,
Pandameru etc. These are very cost effective structures compared
to checkdams or minor & medium irrigation projects. Thlsexperlment
can be emulated elsewhere also where this type of structures are
feasible. So far in Anantapur district 29 diversion weirs we're
constructed and 29-supply channel were executed and thereby 6380
hectare of addition ayacut has been brought under cultivation.

-----Dr:M.C.R.HRDInstituteof AndhraPradesh-----
524 NEERU - MEERU

Details on the achievement are furnished below:

No.of No.of Diversion No.of supply Additional ayacut
locations I weirs channels brought under
sites constructed executed cultivation (hectares)
25 29 29 6380·

Line Diagram Showing the series of pickup anicuts

Across river Papagni taKen up under RIDF-VIII (Phase-I)
Humborol piokup .....cuts
A_..,t
Total oosI 01piokup .noW.

. @pICI(UPAIoICU1· ...CROSSKISTN'PA OPDU

~EM MU~)L.AVA" PAW M
EST RS.l.E1lI..NO-S;AYJlCUT:5) ACRES
(pROPOSE) UNDER RIDf-VIll PHASE-II

.'!..r~""":::®.~U':K UPA~ICUTACRO~SAtAAVARI ODDU

.CAn. VC... <I\TAIlAV.'-W rAUl M .
EST. RS2.10 LAKHS "YACUT :70ACRES ..

, (i) .
• +""'·PICK UP ANICUT ACR.o'S BACHINENI
UL'l)UNbI\H Vt:WKAIAKAYANIt-'AUJ~Y)
.HT. RS223 L.Al(HAYApUT: aJACRES
PIWGUNDLA ciDDU
CHANNEL

®PICK UPANicL T ACROSS·

~.k~T':f~8Jl NEAR
EST. COST RS2.45 LAKHS _PIRuoMANU OODU
. "YACU- : 80 ACRES
CHANNEL

~IMMOI<AY.AL\ ODDU CHANNEL

"'~"-j!_~)~'CK UP_'CUTAC.O~S OAIIA
I, ODDU NEAR ~URRAMB~ ..
EST.CJST RS..1.30 LAAH
AYACUT :,OACRES
DDA ODDU CHANNEL

.......·_9)PICKUPJ\NICUTJ\C=t088 PIii~DI\
OD.DUNEAR 3URRAMBAYLU
VILLA*'
EST.CJST RS.l.30 L'U<H
A·,"AC.UT : eo ."-"E5

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D InstituteofAndhraPradesh
.....
-----
Neeru-Meeru ~SucCess Stories 525

As mentioned elsewhere, seven departments are involved

in the Neeru-Meeru programme. We may single out Department of
Forest as a principal factor for the success of the programme. Here,
we cite a few success stories.

FOREST DEPARTMENT - NEERU-MEERU - SUCCESS STORIES

SUCCESS STORY No.1.

Name of theV.S.S. Titingivalasa

District. Vishakapatnam
Mandai Hukumpeta.
DiVision Paderu
Range. Paderu·

This VSS was formed on 31.10.98 under EAS. Due to funds

constraint, it was transferred to APFP and "Neeru - Meeru" works
were taken up.
Located on the steep slopes of Eastern Ghats between
Paderu & Araku, the primitive tribal groups used to practice podu in
50 ha. Now, they surrendered their podu lands, and planted 62,100
saplings of various species like Jafra, Silver Oak, Kanuga, Tamarind,
Panasa etc. The survival is 95%.
Under"Neeru- Meeru"during2000, all the 6 main hill streams
were treated from "Ridge to Valley" under strict watershed guidelines.
The members were trained in SMC works. They constructed 2000
RMT of staggered contour trenches, and 75 crnt. of contour stone
bunds across the streams.
The dug up earth was consolidated on which 7000 Agave,
8000 Hill broom Rhyzomes, 10000 Kopri grass slips and 12000
pineapple suckers were planted which are coming up very well.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
526 NEERU - MEERU

. With these measures, the entire VSS watershed was treated.

This resulted in the harvest of rainwater resulting in sustained
discharge of water through streams. The excess water was flowing
out of the area and was wasted previously.
During April 2000, under Neeru-Meeru it was 'planned to
construct a water harvesting structure to better utilize the excessively
flowing water to irrigate 40 Acres of barren fallow, dry land belonging
to VSS members from 22 families.

The work was completed in a record time of 2 months & by

June ending at a cost of Rs. 13,000/- only.
Thus a small initiative by Forest Qfficials & VSS members
has yielded a massive structure which stored plenty of water which is
irrigating nearly 40 Acres. The VSS members have never dreamt of
growing paddy and vegetables in their barren lands which are turned
green now. They are now getting Rs. 6000/- per acre per annum as
against Rs. 10001- per annum in dry condition by growing minder
millets.

This is perhaps the best step to alleviate poverty.

SUCCESS STORYNo: II
Name of the V.S.S. D.Gonduru
District· Vishakapatnam
MandaI Paderu
Division Paderu
Range. Paderu

The Paderu Agency Tribal Area is a vast extensive hilly region

with various adverse living conditions, in spite of abundant natural
resources like land and water, but due to unscientific management of
these richly endowed natural resources, the unorganized & illiterate

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
of Andhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 527

human resource of tribal population use to desert their mother lands

and rniqrateto far off places in search.of wage employment for their
livelihood atleast 3-6 months in a year.
Thanks to the concept of JFM and "Neeru - Meeru",the state
Government provided work at their doorstep in tribal area, thereby
stopping migrations. With the encouragement, the members of
Gonduru VSS located in Paderu G.Madugula road who have
championed the Watershed Manaqernent of their VSS area, treated
an extent of 125 ha. From1996. The whole catchment was treated
under Neeru - Meeru by way of trenches, gully plugging &. check
bungs from ridge to valley resulting in absolute soil and moisture
conservation. Now, the streams were re-charged with plenty of water
and flowing through out the year.
The wise VSS members could harvest this water by
constructing a very cost effective traditional farm pond at a cost of
Rs. 31,000/- including gully plugging in. the upper reaches. This
facilitated to store the runningwater which is irrigatingnearly 40 acres,
of land belonging to 50 VSS members down below. Hitherto fallow"
dry lands which fetched Rs. 1000/- to Rs.1200/- per acre per annum
on millets, are now fetching Rs.5000/- to 6000/- per acre,per annum
by growing paddy, pulses & Vegetables. Thus, the natural resource
management through organized human resource had contributed,to
their economic development by eradicating poverty.
SUCCESS STORY No: III
Name of the V.S.S. Thummanamma VSS
Village Daligumjmadi (village)
District Vishakapatnam
Mandai Hukumpeta
Division Paderu
Range. Paderu

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 528 NEERU - MEERU.

This VSS was formed on 2.7.96 with 200 members belonging

to tribal groups. This village is located near Hukumpetaof Hukumpeta
Mandai ofPaderu Division.
Gap Planting:

Since the VSS area i~subjected to heavy grazing, lot of gaps

were created. So far they were planted with 17,500 saplings ofSilver
Oak, Eucalyptus, Kanuga, Jafra etc., species. The·Survival is more
than 90%.

Watershed works:

lnthe VSS area a total of 6782 running meters of contour

trenching was done in addition to 515 cub. meters of gully plugging
with stones. This had really yielded good results by providingexcellent
irrigation facility resulting in great success in their agriculture. Before
the VSS was form~d even though a.check dam was constructed by
. the ITDA no paddy was grown. The check dam was constructed
during March/April, 1998 which is two years old. Before this, the
paddy crop was restricted to only 10 Acres. But today thePaddy is
grown in an extent of 60 Acres. The paddy area has increased 6 ',
times onaccount of Neeru - Meeru works. Before treatment of the
..VSS they used to get 8 t010 bags of paddy per acre. Now they are
getting 30 bags per Acre. The following table can be studied to
compare the income levels before and after watershed development
through VSS.

----...;......,Dr.M.C;RH.R.DInstitute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 ,

-/OOO'OS'17'S~ 'JuawdOlal\ap
6eq pa4SJaJeM
·.aJo~ Jad OO£'s~ @ s6eq s6eq pue UO!JeWJOl
Jad -/OOS ~ ·S~ x s6eq OOS~ %00£ OOS~ O£OJsz 09 SSA Jay'V

I".
. -/0009 ~·s~ JuawdolaAap
== 6eq rad pa4SJaJeM
'Euoe, OOl'S~ @ - s6eq pue UO!JeWJO
,Jad -/9l ~'S~ x s6eq 09 09 s6eq 9 O~ SSA aJOjaa

'paJeJ\!JIno
'sPla!,{ a6elJ!I\ ,{pped
'JaWJej 40ee
lO .a4J ,{pped pue
JOl aJnJlno!J6e aWOOU!
aSBaJOU! lO SPla!,{ jO Pla!,{ paJe6!JJ! JaJaWeJed
UO,aWOOU! JB.IrQI~

J
2
'~!deoJad
a6BJ-
UOOJad
,{pped
IBJO.l
aJo'V Jad eaJe·
JOI JuaJXa

*
z IBJO.l
530 NEERU.:MEERU

Thus, the income on agriculture has atleast increased to Rs.

1500/- per acre if conservative figures are taken. This is a greatest
achievement in this VSS on watershed development.
Village development:

When officers are visiting their village, they always request

for repairs t()the well, electrificationof the village street lights,drainage
facilities, assistance to coffee plantations for supplying Silver Oak
seedlings etc. Their awareness has increased and they started
demanding the Forest Officials and ITDA officials for the above items.
Accordingly, the Forest Range Officer has got a well repaired and
this well has yielded good drinking water with a 6 feet water column
in the month of Aprill May. This well was dry during summer prior to
VSS formation. At present adjoiningvillagers are also drawing drinking
water from this well only becausetheir well is dry which is 1 Km away
from this well. Thus watershed has helped a lot. Now 6' column water
is available.
On their request 10acre silver oak plantationwas madewhich
was supplied by the ITDA. Still there is scope for planting 50 more
Ha. with coffee and silver oak. This land belongs to government.
This can be developed in future. The staff are instructed accordingly
and supplied silver oak at first.
The ITDA has also suppliedMangografts to 25 VSS members
who have;planted 20 plants per acre. During 1997-98, 12.5 acres of
farmers land has come under Mango gardens. The ITDA has also
spent Rs. 1.4 Lakh for the check dam which has yielded very good
results after 1998, and irrigating 65 acre in which paddy is grown. A
metal road was also constructed. A school building at a cost of Rs.
1.3 Lakhs has been commenced. Thus due to their increased
awareness village development took place.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 531

SUCCESS STORYNo: IV
Name of the V.S.S. Ladaput
District Vishakapatnam
Name of the.Division Paderu

The VSS was formed under A.P.F.P. in 1996-97 in interior

tribal area of Paderu Division.
The entire area was treated and the Neeru - Meeru works
, \ ~: • , . .• i..~.....
f. ;'" "

were taken up continuously which yielded tremendous results.

. , . ",;. ., 'I.'

a
Under Neeru - Meeru' Check dam was constructed at a
cost of Rs. 15,000/- and the front area on upsti-eamside desilted was
house more quantity of water. Now the VSS members are quite happy
with their 20 Acres of land put to sufficient paddy production. With
this construction nearly 15 tribal are economically empowered. Thus,
the Neeru - Me"eru has really accomplished the goal of poverty
alleviation.
SUCCESS STORYNo: V
Name of the V.S.S. Masada
District Vishakapatnam
Mandai Hukumpeta
Division Paderu
Range Paderu

This VSS was formed under A.P.F.P. in 1997 with tribal

members in Paderu agency area. Due to hilly terrain, even though
sufficient rainfall is received & due to lack of scientificwater harvesting
structures, their agriculture suffered a big set back.
Thanks to "JFM" which built up the capacity of these remote,
neglected & illiterate tribal groups, who were sufficiently educated on

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
532 NEERU-MEERU

various aspects of development.

Accordingly, they took up Neeru - Meeru works and
constructed a Farm pond for harvesting the excessive rainwater at a
cost of Rs. 10,000/- only. This has yielded unimaginable results & 25
acres of fallow land is now brought under wet cultivation.This benefits
20 poor, under developed tribal farmers. The little initiative under
"Neeru - Meeru" has instilled big hopes which became real dream of
their life.
SUCCESSSTORYNo: VI
Neeru - Meeru in Phoolbagh R.F.
Vizianagaram Range, Vizianagaram Division.

The Phoolbagh R.F. measuring an extent of 1250 Ha. Is

located in the heart of Vizianagaram Town. This area was totally
degraded due to heavy biotic interference which was once a hunting
ground for Vlzianaqaram Maharajas.
When Hon'ble Chief Minister visited this area in 1999, he
instructed the officials to develop this area into a big watershed.
Accordingly, the District Administration has released some funds. The
works started and are continued.·
This area was barren, devoid of tree growth and deep
uncontrolled soil erosion. The nature of the soils contributed to more
ravine formation as they are red, loamy.
Continuous contour trench was dug all around periphery and
the area was protected on the mounds agave and neem were planted
which have survived.
In the trenches, Bamboo Rhizomes were dibbled under
Neeru-Meeru after the call given by the Hon'ble Chief Minister for
seed sowing and seed dibbling. The bamboo is coming up very well

-----Dr.M.C.RH.R.D of Andhra
Institute Pradesh-----
Neeru-Meeru - Success Stories 533

neem seed also germinated and coming up well.

The streams from hilltop were treated at various places, by
construcnnq gully-plugging structures. Due to these treatments the
soil erosion was arrested. Since the hill slopes are highly steep Gabion
structures were also constructed.
The entire water was collected near a check dam which
serves as major percolation point. Beyond this, there is an old well.
Due to lack of check dam, the rainwater used to gush away causing
terrific erosion. The water in this well was hardly one foot deep before
treatment, at present the water column increased to 6' in May within
one year of treatment.
Due to increase in water table as per the instructions of
Hon'ble Chief Minister, neem primary bed nursery was raised here.
This water is sufficient to raise 3.00 Lakhs bag nursery now.
As a result of the watershed, natural regeneration of somidi,
neem AA forms are coming up well'like a carpet in the barren fallow
land. Previously the seed used to be washed away due to lack of
SMC structures.
These miracles were created in Justone year of treatment of
this watershed under Neeru-Meeru. The Ground Water Department
has also conducted different evaluation studies in this watershed area
and proved that the water table has increased by 2 meters.
Apart from this, two tanks were also formed to harvest
the water. This is one of the best "model watershed" works under
Neeru - Meeru.
The success stories noted above are a few selected instances
showing the results of Neeru-Meeru programme in the State and still
a long way to go.

---~-Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 19
WATER VISION: LOOKING INTO
THE FUTURE
The Water Vision-a SecureWater Future

The provision of water for human needs is a fundamental

issue. In the next 20 years, the urgent need for Andhra Pradesh is
water demand management by users, improved water supply and
distribution efficiency by the Government and prevention of pollution.
The shared Water Vision of the peopleand the Government of Andhra
Pradesh is to:
• Have access to clean, hygienic, affordable and secure drinking
water supplies for all the people.
• Encourage individual, community and Government commitment
and participation for efficient water management to secure water
resources for present and future uses.
• Develop a strong, efficient,secure, well-managedand sustainable
irrigation sector.
• Transform existing subsidized and Government-controlled water
management system into sustainable, self-reliant and people-
managed one.
• Achieve sustainable levels of water extraction from rivers, tanks
and groundwater resources.
• Develop an efficient rainfed agriculture.
• Conserve every drop of rainwater to generate more revenue and
community satisfaction.
• Improve management of surface water bodies, both in rural and
urban areas.
• Increase the level of participation of women and landless people
in decision-making at local levels.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Instituteof AndhraPradesh-----

.Water Vision: Looking into the Future 535

• Conserve aquatic ecosystems and the environmental services

they provide such as secure fish stocks and clean water.
• Use an informed knowledge base; built on reliable and up-to-
date water data and information in decision-making at all levels.
• Re-state the commitment of Government to provide a secure
water future for all.
The concern about the future of the water sector in the State
and the lack of a comprehensive overview of the water sector
prompted the Government of Andhra Pradesh to undertake the
development of a Water Vision through the Water Conservation
Mission, with assistance from the Government of the Netherlands.
Water Vision Development
The Andhra Pradesh Water Vision was developed using a
stakeholder-driven process. The Government departments provided
information and strategies for development in various sectors. The
opinions of common rural and urban water users were collected
through workshops conducted in all the 23 districtsof the State through
an NGO, experts interacted with key officials of the departments and
water champions, and prepared position papers on agricultural water
use, drinking and; industrial water use, resource economics and
ecology. The Strategic Framework for water management has been
prepared based on IWRM.The five principlesenunciatedat the Dublin
meeting in 1992 have been used as guidelines:
• Water is a finite resource
• Participatory approach
• Important role of women
• Clean water as the foundation for human health
• Water is an economic good
Current and future water scenario
Present estimates of water use and future water demand,
including those implied by Vision 2020, reveal a disturbing future.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
536 NEERU - MEERU

The total available water resources of Andhra Pradesh are about

1OB.15 billion cubic metres (bern), The present use is nearly 62.29
bcm. The per capita annual water resources availability is slightly
more than 1400 cu m and utilization is about BOO cu m. At present,
about 36% of rural habitations and 2B% of urban bodies do not have
adequate drinking water facilities. The rivers and tanks are getting
polluted from industrial and domestic wastes. Subsidies on irrigation
and power for agriculture are increasing. The Vision 2020 aims at
improving the quality of life of the people by supplying drinking water
to all and by better sanitation, clean and green living areas, and
conserving biodiversity and genetiC resources. It is also aimed at
achieving an average annual growth rate of 6% in the agricultural
sector, for which rice, poultry, dairy, horticulture, agro-industry and
fisheries have been identified as growth engines. All these expected
developments will have a bearing on the wate'rscenario. The present
population of Andhra Pradesh, of about 75 million, is expected to rise
to 90 million by 2020 and per capita annual water availability will
reduce to 1200 cu m. The estimated water use by 2020 and planned
water development by 2025 (Irrigation dept.) are:
Water requirement estimates of different sectors
Balance Total
Drinking
left for Industry Power develop
Water
Irrigation bcm bcm -ment
bcm
bcm (tmc) (tmc) bcm
(tmc)
(tmc) (tmc)
Present 0.59 (21) 64.21 (2268) 0.28 (10) 0.03 (1) 65.12.
(2300)
2020· 3.45 (122) 67.00 (2368) 1.00 0.05 (!.75) 71.50
(35.3) (2527)
2025 3.45 (122) 107.98 (3814) 1.44 (51) 0.06 (2) 112.94
(3989t
(Source: Strategy Paper of IrrigationDepartment,Govt. of AP. 2001).

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Vision: Looking Into the Future 537

Estimatedwater requirements and proiected dev~lopments.

According to strategy of irrigation department, Andhra
Pradesh would develop all the, available water resources by 2025
and reach its limit of water use. The drier parts of the State would be
moving from a water-scarce to severely scarce situation by 2020.
More than 50% of the State's share of the Godavari river
water remains unutilized, which forms about 80% of the balance
available water in the State. The Government has, therefore, given
the highest priority for the completion of ongoing irrigation projects,
and to secure clearances of the pending projects.
In 1996,the Government of Andhra Pradesh evolved a three-
pronged strategy:
• Achieve maximum irrigated area by completing on-going
major and medium irrigation projects.
• Rehabilitate and modernize the existing irrigation schemes
to bridge the gap ayacut in tail-end areas.
• Hand over the management and maintenance of all irrigation
schemes in the State to farmers' organizations to ensure a
sustainable, reliable, self-reliant and people-managed water
supply system.
The creation of dam and reservoir infrastructure, in addition
to providing water sources for irrigation,drinking and industrial needs,
will help in power generation and in protecting against natural
calamities such as floods and droughts. Irrigation has shown a way
in the alleviation of poverty in upland and backward areas, provided
equity issues of upstream and downstreamdisbenefitsare addressed,
by providing sustained income to farmers, increase in wages and
employment, and availability of water for human and livestock
consumption and industrial activities.This process, with more efficient
use of water harvesting and an equitable distribution of water will
continue to augment farm income,generate employmentand alleviate

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.O Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
538 NEERU - MEERU

,,:. , ,. ~; ~.;.'

However, there are still significant social, planning,

development and environmental issues that must be addressed for a
secure water.future in Andhra Pradesh.The critical areas where water
actions are needed include:
• Improving the efficiency of irrigation water
• Preventing water pollution
• ContrOllingwaterlogging and soil salinity
'. Reducing over-exploitation of groundwater
• Improving the deteriorating water quality in coastal areas
• Improving the use of rainfall for agriculture
• Protecting water bodies in urban areas
• Improving the management of small tanks in rural areas
• Addressing the limited use of monitoring and regulation
• Clarifying the future role of the Water Conservation Mission
and the Neeru-Meeru Programme with enough emphasis on
water management.
• Effective environmental impact assessment of each
development initiative and committed follow-up to protect
aquatic.ecosystems
A Strategic; Water Framework for Action

The Water Vision is backed up by a Strategic Water

Framework. The further development of water resources in the State
mainly depends on utilization of Godavari water. The Godavari water
development involves lifting of water from river level to higher lands
involving lifts of more than 300 m. Furthermore, any reservoir across
the river would involve submersion of valuable forest areas (even in
neighbouring States) and coal deposits. The planned Itchampalli and
Polavaramprojects on Godavariare likely to submergenearly 150,000

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Vision: Looking into the Future 539

ha area, out of wnich about 30,000 ha will be forest area. More than
200,000 personsfrom about 480 villages may be displaced. Integrated
planning adopting conservation of rainwater by watershed
development and construction of several small dams on tributaries
to avoid submersion of large areas. while contemplating bigger
projects for hydro-power generation, navigation and flood control
appears to be an acceptable strategy for getting results within the
vision period of the next 20 years. Emphasis on efficient utilization of
the already developed water resources could provide better
opportunity to provide water security to the State.
Reforms of the administration and legal powers that govern
water will ensure more equitable distribution. Coupled with the
adoption of improved technologies, water reforms and river basin
planning will provide opportunities for more efficient water use,
specifically at the district level. There needs to be closer coordination
between water reform and proposed developments in the Andhra
Pradesh Vision 2020. This includes ensuring current water
developments are managed more efficiently so that there is less
pressure put on current water stocks to satisfy future needs.
At the local scale, there are ampre Opportuhities'for itrirY!edi~te
actions to reduce pollution of tanks, groundwater and urban/rural
domestic water supplies. There is a clear need for Water Users'
Associations and Water Conservation and Utilization Committees
across Andhra Pradesh to harness the traditional tank keeper role to
address this immediate concern.
Traditional water management methods, coupled with high
technological solutions, accurate information and a need-based
research agenda will provide a firm foundation for sustainable water
resource management. There is also the need to improve water
sanitation and access to health services to sustain healthy and
prosperous families of smaller sizes.

-----Or.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
540 NEERU- MEERU

Implementing the Water Vision lies equally with men and

women of all levels of society. There is a real need to enhance the
role of all stakeholders, particutarly women and landless persons, in
decision-making and provide training for water professionals and
community organizations. Much can be achieved within a five-year
time frame, with a series of targeted Government and NGO
programmes.
This Water Vision will only be achieved by coordinated, joint
action by the Government, NGOs, water organizationsand individuals
at all levels in the State. This will require developing appropriate
institutions by the Government to coordinate activities within and
between Government departments and community organizations.
Likewise, the role of local water organizations should be enhanced
to streamline district action and provide equitable, appropriate,
affordable and accessible water management solutions.
This Vision requires commitment. We must work together to
implement this Vision, integrating our activities for the common good
and a secure water future.

Strategic State Level Actions

The preferred approach to water management is to use
integrated water resource management:
• Harnessing all the available water resources of the State
including those for ecological requirements, and determining
sustainable limits to secure future water use opportunities.
• Managing water resources through stakeholder participation
and management.
• Moving water use to more efficient methods to ensure
supplies exist beyond 2020.
• Developing water policy and a State-wide Integrated Water
Resources Management Plan to guide water development.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water VIsion; Looking into the Future 541

• Facilitate resources for R&D in water supply and demand

management.
The· Strategic Water Framework for Andhra Pradesh
recognizes the need for a sustainable and integrated approach to
water resources development and management. The following
elements comprise the core of a Strategic Water Framework:
• Assessment of current water resources stock in terms of
spatial and temporal availability and quality.
• Acceptance of this Shared Water Vision.
• Development of a State water policy, congruent with national
water policy, which outlines goals and objectives for
sustainable water development and management, and
measures to implement those goals and objectives.
• Preparation of plans of management for water resources
development and man,agement,at the river basin scale.
.: -:

• Specification, within river basin scale water plans, of specific

district actions for water management, addressing concerns
over the shortcomings of the Neeru-Meeru programme
(technical, administrative, local involvement).
• Clear definition of the roles and responsibilities in water
management of the State Government and its agencies, local
Water Conservation and Utilization Committees, Watershed
Committees, local Government organizations and other
institutions.
• Development and implementation of an auditing programme
for water management, which measures progress towards
sustainable water management goals and objectives.

State-level Actions
The following actions are recommended to achieve
sustainable water development and management.

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
542 NEERU - MEERU

• Supportand facilitationof water policy developmentand water

planning as a priority activity both withinthe State and within
each district.
• Specification of water pricing policies of canal water and
power tariff for groundwater extraction in such a way that
they maximize production and also conserve and protect the
scarce water resources.
• Rationalizewater-related subsidies and tune existing pollcles
to promote conservation of water and augment water
productivity.
• Provision of guidelines for integrated management of water
resources, including new developments.
• Establishmentof a clearinghouse,e.g., informationand policy
analysis.
• Championing of third party interests and monitoring decision-
making rules through an external, independent audit.
• Promotion of, and participation in inter-State cooperation in
water management.
• Support of research and monitoring.
• Development of methods to implement national guidelines
in water quality.
• Provision of technical and financial assistance to assist the
development of water policy.
• Better management of existing national investments in water
projects to increase water use efficiency.
State-wide water policyshould include (and others will
need to be identified):
, . '. ", \ ~.~ ..
• Statements of water use and water conservation goals.
• Methods to integrate water with land management at the

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
Water Vision: Looking into the Future 543

regional scale in the State.

• Monitoring mechanismsto ensure policy failure is addressed.
• Development of a water legislation profile relevant to current
needs.
• Detailed implementation procedures in an Integrated Water
Resources Management Plan.
• Ongoing, sustainable funding mechanisms.

Acti~ns at the DistrictLevel \ ;..,'

Within the context of a StatewideIntegratedWater Resources

Management Plan, a range of immediate actions is required in each
of the 23 districts of Andhra Pradesh. These were developed from
interactive workshops with the stakeholders to develop the Water
Vision. The actions are planned to give immediate implementation of
the Water Vision. There is an opportunity to implement them within
the strengthened Neeru-Meeru Programme.
At present, many local water organizations exist. There is an
opportunity to build stronger local water organizations to implement
the Water Vision by streamlining the number of water organlzations
and giving new direction,financial supportand impetusfor stakeholder
participation to the Water Conservation and Utilization Committees
and Water Use Associations in Andhra Pradesh. More robust local
water committees will provide opportunities to implement the
immediate local actions suggested in the Andhra Pradesh Water
Vision.

Capacity Building and Legal Frameworks

A peak water advisory body
.. . .
There is a need to strengthen the capacity of the Government
to implement the water vision and the strategic water framework.
There is a need for an overarching body to integrate and coordinate

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
544 NEERU-MEERU

action and have the overall responsibility to implement the Water

Vision. A Water Mission/Water Management and Coordination
Advisory Committee, comprising water management experts, policy
advisors, media and senior citizens,may be formed to develop policies
and strategies, and to coordinate and plan for int~grateddevelopment
and management of water resources. It should report to the Chief
Minister and his cabinet, consisting of the Council of Ministers. An
eminent water management professional should head it.
Water law

There is also the need to link the Water Vision to current

legislation in Andhra Pradesh. There is an opportunity for the Water
Vision to use the Andhra Pradesh Water, Land and Trees Act and to
establish the Andhra Pradesh Water, Land and Trees Authority as a
matter of priority, .to act as the lead agency to implement the W::lter
Vision, under the guidance of the Water Management and Co-
ordination Advisory Committee. The effective implementationof other
Andhra Pradesh Acts also offer opportunities to strengthen the Water
Vision and these are discussed in Section 4 of this document.
Educationand awareness

Much can be achieved in water conservation by building an

awareness of the need to save this precious resource. A campaign
through 'informationtechnology'and 'trainingschools'on water literacy
to build both awareness and capacity for the judicious use of water is
required. A public education programme about the importance of
water and its judicious use is also recommended. To make these
programmes successful, transferring leadership to women will go a
long way to increasemore professionaland family-orientedownership.
Researchand Development

There is a strong need to allocate more research resources

-----Dr.M.C.R.I-~.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----
 545
Water Vision: Looking into the Future ,

for an Andhra Pradesh Water Research Plan. The aim should be to

save water, improve water productivity, develop and promote water
efficiency technologies, enhance agricultural production and prevent
degradation of soil and water resources (such as soil salinity, water
logging, soil erosion, etc.). To facilitate the research effectively, an
apex level water research, extension and training institute needs to
be established, which will cater to the emerging needs of water
management in a dynamic framework.
Information Management

There is the need for a State-wide Water Information and

Management System (WIMS). This will include information on the
use of irrigation efficiency best practices, a five-yearly water-auditing
programme and a water knowledge information system.
Leadership Training And Accountability

Implementing IWRM requires that the water managers

develop an understanding of the concept of IWRM, the technical
requirements, its potential benefits and how best to put it into practice.
In addition, water professionals need to acquire the necessary skills
to apply specific (often sectoral management tools, to reform
regUlations,to strengthen need-based financing systems, etc. There
is an opportunity to commence a State-wide leadership capacity
building program in IWRM (focusing on water policy tools) and, at
the toceuevet, to identifyand pilottest improvedand efficient practices,
assemble traditional best practices and train the trainers. There is a
need to provide a recurring auditing programme to measure the
effectiveness of water management across the State through
improvements in water savings and water quality.

Source:- http://www.wcmap.org/msu/watervision/EngVol-1 2.pdf

-----Dr.M.C.R.H.R.D Institute
ofAndhra
Pradesh-----