The hallmark of watershed development in the semi-arid regions of India is the

The hallmark of watershed development in semi‑arid regions is implementing earthworks, soil‑conservation measures and tree plantation to conserve soil moisture and enhance groundwater recharge. Watershed management aims to prevent surface runoff while promoting storage and recharge of groundwater through structures and practices such as percolation tanks, recharge wells and in‑situ conservation; it broadly includes conservation, regeneration and judicious use of land, water and vegetation within a watershed [1]. Practical guidance for dryland areas stresses rainwater harvesting, a series of small water‑harvesting projects, and adoption of soil conservation practices (earthworks, check dams, gully plugging and afforestation) to maximize benefits from watershed projects and reclaim degraded lands [2]. Thus option (2) correctly states the hallmark.

Sources

1. [1] INDIA PEOPLE AND ECONOMY, TEXTBOOK IN GEOGRAPHY FOR CLASS XII (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Water Resources > Watershed Management > p. 47
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 6: Soils > CONSEQUENCES OF SOIL EROSION > p. 23