MEV 014: Unit 17 – NRM Programmes and Schemes

 UNIT 17: NRM PROGRAMMES AND SCHEMES


17.0 Introduction

Natural Resource Management (NRM) involves managing land, water, soil, plants, and animals in a sustainable way. In a country like India, where rural livelihoods depend largely on natural resources, proper planning, conservation, and utilization of these resources are vital for sustainable development. This unit discusses various government schemes and programmes aimed at conserving resources and supporting livelihoods.


17.1 Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:

  • Understand the concept and significance of NRM.
  • Learn the connection between NRM and livelihoods.
  • Explore government schemes and programmes related to NRM and sustainable development.

17.2 Natural Resource Management (NRM)

NRM is the process of managing the use and development of natural resources such as land, water, soil, forests, and biodiversity. The goal is to meet current human needs while ensuring that the resources remain available for future generations.

Key aspects of NRM include:

  • Sustainable use of resources.
  • Protection and conservation.
  • Involvement of local communities.
  • Use of scientific and traditional knowledge.

17.3 NRM and Livelihood

Natural resources are the main source of income for many rural communities. Agriculture, fishing, livestock, forestry, and gathering of forest products all depend on healthy ecosystems.

How NRM supports livelihoods:

  • Provides employment through afforestation, farming, and eco-tourism.
  • Ensures availability of water and soil fertility for agriculture.
  • Promotes community-based development.
  • Helps in reducing poverty through resource-based income generation.

17.4 Natural Resource Management in Sustainable Way

Sustainable NRM means:

  • Using resources in a balanced way.
  • Avoiding practices that lead to depletion or pollution.
  • Promoting renewable resources and conservation.
  • Adapting to climate change by using efficient technologies and community participation.

17.5 Scheme and Programme for Natural Resource Conservation and Sustainable Livelihood

The Government of India has launched several schemes to promote resource conservation and improve rural livelihoods.


17.5.1 National Afforestation Programme (NAP)

  • Implemented by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
  • Aims at forest restoration through people's participation.
  • Focuses on degraded forest lands.
  • Provides employment through plantation and forest care activities.

17.5.2 Man and Biosphere Programme (MAB)

  • Launched by UNESCO; implemented in India through the Ministry of Environment.
  • Aims to conserve biodiversity, promote research, and support sustainable use of resources in biosphere reserves.
  • Encourages local participation in conservation activities.

17.5.3 Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP)

  • Now part of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY).
  • Focuses on conservation of soil and water in hilly and drought-prone areas.
  • Promotes livelihood generation, water harvesting, afforestation, and sustainable farming.

17.5.4 National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)

  • One of the eight missions under India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change.
  • Aims to promote climate-resilient agriculture.
  • Supports soil health, water-use efficiency, and agroforestry.

17.5.5 National Bamboo Mission

  • Promotes bamboo cultivation, processing, and marketing.
  • Supports livelihood opportunities in rural areas.
  • Helps in land restoration and environmental improvement.

17.5.6 Horticulture and Agriculture Development

  • Focuses on crop diversification, fruit and vegetable farming, and organic farming.
  • Enhances nutritional security and income of farmers.
  • Promotes efficient use of natural resources.

17.5.7 National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)

  • Promotes cultivation and sustainable use of medicinal plants.
  • Helps in protecting rare species and supporting tribal livelihoods.
  • Encourages processing and value addition.

17.5.8 Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs)

  • Includes items like honey, gum, fruits, resins, and herbs.
  • Major source of income for forest dwellers and tribal people.
  • Programs aim to support collection, processing, and market access.

17.5.9 Rural Livestock Development Programme

  • Supports animal husbandry and veterinary services.
  • Provides training, mobile clinics, and breed improvement.
  • Enhances nutrition and income security of rural families.

17.5.10 National Biofuel Mission

  • Encourages the use of renewable fuels like ethanol and biodiesel.
  • Promotes cultivation of biofuel crops like jatropha and pongamia.
  • Supports energy security and reduces dependence on fossil fuels.

17.6 Role of Community in NRM Programmes

  • Active participation of local communities is essential for success.
  • Self-help groups, panchayats, and forest user groups are involved in implementation.
  • Community monitoring ensures transparency and sustainability.

17.7 Role of Technology in NRM

  • Remote Sensing and GIS are used to identify degraded lands and monitor forests.
  • Mobile apps and portals provide data to farmers and officials.
  • Irrigation and soil health technologies improve farming outcomes.

17.8 Let Us Sum Up

  • NRM ensures the sustainable use of natural resources.
  • It plays a vital role in supporting rural livelihoods and environmental conservation.
  • Government programmes like NAP, IWMP, NMSA, and Biofuel Mission focus on both conservation and income generation.
  • Involving local people and using technology improves the success of these schemes.

 

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