This publication reviews the successes and challenges of the Micro-watershed (MWS) programme implemented by the Uttarakhand Forest Resource Management Project (UFRMP), in cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in the state of Uttarakhand. The research employs mixed methodologies, combining quantitative indicators with qualitative insights gathered from field observations, beneficiary surveys, and participatory approaches. The findings underscore the transformative potential of watershed management in restoring degraded ecosystems, enhancing water security, and supporting rural livelihoods. The report also highlights areas for improvement, including the need for sustained capacity-building, robust monitoring systems, and policy-level support for scaling these interventions.

The micro-watershed management approach documented in this report exemplifies a sustainable model for balancing ecological restoration with socio-economic development. As climate uncertainties and developmental pressures burdens the Himalayan region, scaling such initiatives will be crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability of Uttarakhand’s natural ecological systems. This report provides a comprehensive assessment of the programme and serves as a resource for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders invested in advancing watershed management in the region.