Question:medium

Which of the followings is a target group development programme?

Show Hint

To distinguish between the two types, ask "What is being targeted?" If the answer is a place (desert, drought-prone area), it's area-based. If the answer is a group of people (small farmers, tribal communities), it's target-group based.
Updated On: Feb 16, 2026
  • Command Area Development Programme
  • Drought Prone Area Development Programme
  • Desert Development Programme
  • Small Farmers Development Agency
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Conceptual Classification:
Development programmes fall into two main categories. Area-based programmes concentrate on the development of specific geographical regions (e.g., drought-prone or hilly areas). Target-group programmes aim to improve the circumstances of particular population segments (e.g., small farmers or landless laborers).
Step 2: Programme Analysis:
Let's categorize the provided programmes:
1. Command Area Development Programme: Enhances water management within the 'command area' of an irrigation project. This is classified as an area-based programme.
2. Drought Prone Area Development Programme: Designed to mitigate the effects of drought in designated arid and semi-arid regions. This is an area-based programme.
3. Desert Development Programme: Focuses on combating desertification and fostering economic growth in desert territories. This is an area-based programme.
4. Small Farmers Development Agency (SFDA): Established to identify and support small and marginal farmers with essential services like credit and inputs. Its focus is on a specific demographic rather than a geographical area, making it a target-group programme.
Step 3: Conclusion:
The Small Farmers Development Agency operates as a target group development initiative.
Was this answer helpful?
1