Integrated impact assessment model for explaining differential impact of watershed development projects

Abstract

The impact of large-scale watershed development projects in India has been less than optimal. Existing impact assessment studies have attributed this to the inefficiency of the implementing agency. This paper argues that this explanation is insufficient and proposes a broad-based explanation which brings in issues such as policy dilution, stakeholder interests and organisational processes. Using an integrated impact assessment model in case studies of four watershed projects in India, we attempt to explain this complex phenomenon. The study finds that the restrictive nature of policy guidelines, inappropriate allocation of resources, standard operating procedures, stakeholder interests, and parochial priorities at community level play a key role in the creation of differential impact.

Keywords:

• integrated impact assessment
• watershed
• project
• implementing agency
• policy
• stakeholders