In what way do micro-watershed development projects help in water conservation in drought-prone and semi-arid regions of India? (UPSC 2016)

Micro-watershed projects conserve water by treating a small, manageable area, usually 500–1,000 hectares, from ridge to valley. In drought-prone and semi-arid regions, they reduce runoff, improve infiltration and recharge groundwater for local use.

• Soil and moisture conservation: contour bunds, trenches and vegetative barriers slow rainwater flow, cut erosion and keep moisture in the root zone.
• Runoff harvesting: check dams, farm ponds, gully plugs and percolation tanks store monsoon runoff and release it slowly for percolation.
• Aquifer recharge: recharge shafts and wells raise the water table, supporting wells and drinking water in dry months.
• Better land use: afforestation and crop planning reduce demand and improve water-use efficiency.

Thus, micro-watersheds convert erratic rainfall into local water security, strengthen dryland farming and make fragile regions more resilient to drought.