6.5.4. Measures for Promotion of Sustainable Development

The ecological sustainability of Indira Gandhi Canal Project has been questioned by various scholars. Their point of view has also largely been validated by the course of development this region has taken during the last four decades, which has resulted in degradation of physical environment.

Ecological sustainability refers to the ability to maintain healthy ecosystems and biodiversity while ensuring that development is feasible. The scholars highlight that the Indira Gandhi Canal Project, while vital for irrigation and agriculture, has led to negative environmental impacts over time. This degradation suggests that sustainable practices were not adequately considered or implemented during the planning and construction phases of the canal project.

Think of an aquarium. If you add too many fish without ensuring a good filter and sufficient resources, the water quality degrades, harming the fish. Similarly, the canal project neglected some ecological considerations, leading to environmental degradation.

Hence, five of the seven measures proposed to promote sustainable development in the command area are meant to restore ecological balance. (i) The first requirement is strict implementation of water management policy. The canal project envisages protective irrigation in Stage-I and extensive irrigation of crops and pasture development in Stage-II. (ii) In general, the cropping pattern shall not include water intensive crops. It shall be adhered to and people shall be encouraged to grow plantation crops such as citrus fruits.

The measures suggested focus on balancing agricultural needs with environmental protection. These include managing water resources effectively to prevent wastage and reducing the cultivation of water-intensive crops, which can deplete water resources faster than they can be replenished. Instead, farmers are encouraged to plant crops that require less water and can thrive in the local climate, such as citrus fruits.

Imagine watering a garden. If you use a hose without control, you can waste a lot of water. Now, if you use a watering can instead, it's more precise. This is akin to water management in agriculture, where mindful use can conserve resources.

(iii) The areas affected by water logging and soil salinity shall be reclaimed. (iv) The eco-development through afforestation, shelterbelt plantation and pasture development is necessary particularly in the fragile environment of Stage-II.

Waterlogging and soil salinity can severely damage land productivity. Reclamation efforts involve restoring the health of this land so that it can be useful for agriculture again. Additionally, afforestation involves planting trees to improve ecosystem health and prevent erosion, while shelterbelts (rows of trees) can protect agricultural areas from harsh winds. This helps create a more balanced environment which can sustain agriculture long-term.

Think of a sponge that has been soaked in water until it can't absorb any more. After letting it dry out, it can soak up water again. Similarly, reclaiming affected areas helps restore the land's ability to support crops once more.

(v) The social sustainability in the region can be achieved only if the land allottees having poor economic background are provided adequate financial and institutional support for cultivation of land. (vi) The economic sustainability in the region cannot be attained only through development of agriculture and animal husbandry. The agricultural and allied activities have to develop along with other sectors of economy. This shall lead to diversification of economic base and establishment of functional linkages between basic villages, agro-service centres and market centres.

Social sustainability ensures that all members of the community, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, have access to resources and support needed for agriculture. This includes financial aid and training programs. Economic sustainability goes beyond just farming; it involves developing various sectors to create a well-rounded and resilient economy that can support communities even in challenging times.

Consider a team sport. Just having one star player doesn't guarantee a win. The entire team needs to work together effectively. Similarly, a community needs to build various skills and sectors to be successful long-term, not just rely on agriculture.

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