Haryana announces ‘Water Secure Haryana’ programme

Correct answer: D

Haryana Agriculture Minister Shyam Singh Rana announced the ‘Water Secure Haryana’ programme to address the state’s linked challenges of groundwater stress, waterlogging, salinity and farm sustainability. The programme proposes sub-surface drainage and vertical drainage for reclaiming affected agricultural land. It will also encourage farmers to shift toward water-efficient crops, adopt modern irrigation technologies and follow climate-smart agricultural practices. The larger goal is to conserve water while maintaining farm productivity and improving farmers’ income. For HSSC, remember the programme’s name, the announcing minister and the connection between drainage technology, crop diversification and water conservation. The initiative is important because Haryana faces both falling groundwater in some regions and excess water or salinity in others.