In this section, we look at policy measures for afforestation, rural energy conservation, hydel and irrigation projects. Afforestation programmes are taken up by the Forest Department, private agencies, city corporations, NSS camps organised by Universities and lastly by people themselves. Even though there is talk about afforestation at a global level, micro level detailed planning is absent and hence the percolation and success rates are very poor. It is essential to develop district level / taluk level guidelines and detailed plans regarding involvement of people. One interesting example is that of subabool plantations. The efforts of the Forest Department did not meet with any success, but when Agriculture and Rural Development officials took up the matter at the grass root level it met with great success. The programme was started in Bijapur District in 1980-81 with focus on Basavan Bagewadi Taluk. Detailed plans were drawn up on seed procurement, nursery raising, mobilisation of farmers etc. Extensive extension work was done by the Agriculture Department. The progress was monitored at every stage very carefully and imaginatively by officials of the district. Hence the success rate was very good. The concept was also accepted by farmers. This programme was extended to the other districts in successive years and it has borne fruit in the drought prone districts of our State. This illustrates the need for grass root level development, an extensive extension service and proper coordination amongst various government agencies.

Afforestation Programmes
Integrated Rural Energy Programme
Hydroelectric and Irrigation Projects and Environment