Key Objectives and Activities

Community Empowerment: The primary objective of IWMP is to empower local communities to actively participate in watershed management activities. BSDS organizes community meetings, Gram Sabhas (village assemblies), and awareness campaigns to engage residents in decision-making processes related to natural resource management.

Capacity Building: BSDS conducts training programs and workshops to build the capacity of community members in watershed management techniques, sustainable agriculture practices, and soil and water conservation methods. These initiatives equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement effective watershed management strategies.

Formation of Community-Based Organizations: As part of IWMP, BSDS facilitates the formation of various community-based organizations, including area groups, executive committees, and self-help groups (SHGs). These organizations serve as platforms for collective action and collaboration among community members towards achieving common watershed management goals.

Awareness and Advocacy: BSDS utilizes innovative approaches such as street plays, rallies (jaathas), and other forms of public outreach to raise awareness about the importance of watershed management and environmental conservation. By promoting advocacy and community mobilization, BSDS fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among local stakeholders.

Promotion of Sustainable Practices: IWMP emphasizes the adoption of sustainable land and water management practices to enhance soil fertility, prevent soil erosion, and improve water quality. BSDS encourages the implementation of measures such as contour bunding, afforestation, and rainwater harvesting to promote environmental sustainability within the watershed area.

Monitoring and Evaluation: BSDS conducts regular monitoring and evaluation of IWMP activities to assess their impact on the watershed ecosystem and the well-being of local communities. By tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement, BSDS ensures the effectiveness and sustainability of watershed management interventions.

Through the Integrated Watershed Management Project (IWMP), BSDS is committed to promoting community-driven initiatives for sustainable development, enhancing the resilience of rural communities, and conserving natural resources for future generations.