UPSC Prelims 2004 Q46: Environment & Ecology – Water & Wetland Conservation
Tarun Bharat Sangh, an organization based in a village near Alwar (Rajasthan) has become
famous because of
- (a) Cultivation of genetically modified cotton
- (b) Rehabilitation of women victims of AIDS
- (c) Livelihood projects for destitute rural women
- (d) Rain - water harvesting
Answer: (d) Rain - water harvesting
Explanation
Tarun Bharat Sangh
| Option | Work |
|---|---|
| Rain-water harvesting | Yes — johads in Alwar, founded by Rajendra Singh |
| GM cotton cultivation | No |
| Rehabilitation of women AIDS victims | No |
| Livelihood for destitute women | No |
The Tarun Bharat Sangh near Alwar became famous for rain-water harvesting by building johads.
Answer: (d) Rain-water harvesting.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. TBS is not about genetically modified cotton.
- (b) Incorrect. TBS does not work on AIDS rehabilitation.
- (c) Incorrect. TBS is not a livelihood programme for women.
- (d) CORRECT. TBS is known for rain-water harvesting.
Key point
Rajendra Singh: Waterman of India, Magsaysay 2001, Stockholm Water Prize 2015.
Remember
Tarun Bharat Sangh is known for rain-water harvesting.
Common mistakes
- Mixing TBS with SEWA or the Chipko movement.
- Forgetting the johad technique of check dams.
- Placing Alwar in Gujarat or Haryana.
Exam tip
Johads: earthen check dams of Rajasthan.
Sources
- Tarun Bharat Sangh, Alwar — Annual Report (johad and water-harvesting work)
- Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation — Rajendra Singh, Magsaysay Awardee 2001 (Tarun Bharat Sangh)