The main aim of the watershed management strategy of India is soil conservation. This strategy is implemented to mitigate soil erosion, preserve water resources, and promote sustainable land use practices within a specific watershed area.

What is watershed management?
Watershed management involves the coordinated and integrated management of land, water, and vegetation resources within a specific watershed area. A watershed is defined as an area of land where all the water that falls within it drains into a common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean.

Why is soil conservation important?
Soil conservation is crucial for maintaining soil fertility, preventing soil erosion, and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. Soil erosion can lead to the loss of topsoil, which is rich in nutrients and essential for plant growth. It can also result in the degradation of water quality and the loss of biodiversity.

Objectives of watershed management strategy:
1. Soil conservation: The primary objective of the watershed management strategy is to prevent soil erosion and conserve soil moisture. This is achieved through various measures such as contour plowing, terracing, and the establishment of vegetative cover.

2. Water resource management: Watershed management aims to preserve water resources by controlling runoff, reducing sedimentation, and promoting groundwater recharge. This helps in maintaining a sustainable water supply for agriculture, domestic use, and ecosystem functions.

3. Sustainable land use: The strategy promotes sustainable land use practices such as agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and the use of organic fertilizers. These practices help in improving soil health, enhancing crop productivity, and reducing the dependency on chemical inputs.

4. Biodiversity conservation: Watershed management also focuses on preserving and enhancing biodiversity within the watershed area. It involves the protection and restoration of natural habitats, the promotion of native species, and the conservation of endangered flora and fauna.

5. Livelihood improvement: The strategy aims to improve the livelihoods of local communities living in the watershed area. This is achieved through the promotion of income-generating activities such as sustainable agriculture, horticulture, and eco-tourism.

Implementation of watershed management:
Watershed management is implemented through a combination of physical interventions, community participation, and policy support. It involves the construction of soil and water conservation structures, the implementation of land-use planning, the provision of technical assistance and training, and the establishment of watershed committees or user groups.

Conclusion:
The main aim of the watershed management strategy in India is soil conservation. This strategy plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion, preserving water resources, promoting sustainable land use practices, conserving biodiversity, and improving the livelihoods of local communities. By implementing watershed management, India can ensure the long-term sustainability of its natural resources and contribute to environmental conservation.