The Sardar Sarovar Dam is extremely important because it supplies water to drought-prone regions of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra. It provides irrigation to millions of hectares, supports drinking water needs and helps improve agriculture, especially in dry and desert districts. It also promotes regional development, strengthens water security and benefits tribal and hilly regions through lift irrigation.
Read the given source and answer the questions that follow: Sardar Sarovar Sardar Sarovar Dam has been built over the Narmada River in Gujarat. This is one of the largest water resource projects of India covering four states — Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan. The Sardar Sarovar project would meet the requirement of water in drought prone and desert areas. Sardar Sarovar Project will provide irrigation facilities to 18.45 lakh hectare of land, covering 3112 villages in 15 districts of Gujarat. It will also irrigate 2,46,000 hectares of land in the strategic desert districts of Barmer and Jalore in Rajasthan and 37,500-hectare land in the tribal hilly tract of Maharashtra through lift. About 75 per cent of the command area in Gujarat is drought-prone while entire command in Rajasthan is drought-prone. Assured water supply will soon make this area drought-proof. (18.1) Explain the importance of Sardar Sarovar Dam. (18.2) How does Sardar Sarovar Dam align with sustainable development? (18.3) Examine the role of community participation in the success of the Sardar Sarovar Project.
Share
(18.1) The Sardar Sarovar Dam is extremely important because it supplies water to drought-prone regions of Gujarat, Rajasthan and Maharashtra. It provides irrigation to millions of hectares, supports drinking water needs and helps improve agriculture, especially in dry and desert districts. It also promotes regional development, strengthens water security and benefits tribal and hilly regions through lift irrigation. Overall, it transforms water-scarce areas into productive regions.
(18.2) The project promotes sustainable development by ensuring long-term water availability in drought-affected areas, improving agricultural productivity and reducing dependence on unpredictable monsoons. It supports efficient water distribution, enhances groundwater recharge and enables greener farming practices. It also encourages renewable energy production through hydropower and improves livelihoods, thereby balancing economic growth, environmental management and social welfare.
(18.3) Community participation has been crucial for the project’s success. Local farmers, village committees and user groups help manage canal networks, maintain water distribution and prevent wastage. Community involvement ensures fair sharing of water, supports micro-irrigation practices and strengthens local decision-making. Participation in rehabilitation, land development and monitoring improves trust, transparency and long-term sustainability of the project. Their cooperation helps maximize benefits in drought-prone regions.