Component 1: Erosion and Watershed Management Infrastructure Investment `

This component aims to reduce erosion and flood vulnerability in targeted sub-watersheds through integrated structural, ecological, and community-based interventions.

The component comprises six sub-components:

• Sub-Component 1.1: Erosion Control and Site Stabilisation. This sub-component will finance the design and construction of drainage systems, check dams, retaining walls, culverts, and slope stabilisation structures. Civil works will be integrated with vegetation replanting to reduce surface runoff and slope instability. Rehabilitation sites will be prioritised based on gully severity, socio-economic importance, and readiness of local communities.
• Sub-Component 1.2: Sustainable Land Management Practices. Proposed activities include agroforestry, contour bonding, terracing, mulching, and vegetation regeneration in degraded areas. Soil and water conservation techniques, such as vegetative barriers, grass strips, and organic farming, will be promoted. The sub-component will also support the establishment of community woodlots and watershed protection buffers.
• Sub-Component 1.3: Community-Based Catchment Planning. Participatory sub-catchment planning will be conducted to prepare Community Action Plans (CAPs) integrating erosion control, reforestation, and livelihood interventions. Community Implementation Committees (CICs) will be mobilised for small-scale works and local supervision. Capacity-building activities will equip communities to maintain and monitor interventions.
• Sub-Component 1.4: Hydro-Meteorological and Early Warning Systems (HydroMet). Automatic rainfall and HydroMet monitoring stations will be installed across participating states. Data will be integrated for flood forecasting and risk mapping. A centralised digital portal will provide stakeholders with access to project data.
• Sub-Component 1.5: Livelihood Diversification and Climate-Resilient Enterprises. Grants and technical assistance will support income-generating activities that complement erosion control, such as apiculture, aquaculture, nurseries, and bamboo craft. This sub-component will promote green value chains, with an emphasis on the inclusion of women and youth and will provide business skills training and market linkages.
• Sub-Component 1.6: Water Harvesting and Micro-Irrigation Systems. Small-scale rainwater harvesting and micro-dam structures will be developed to enhance water security for households and farms. Training in efficient water use and maintenance of local irrigation infrastructure will be provided.