The 'Drought Prone Area Programme' (DPAP) was initiated during the Fourth Five Year Plan. An analytical study includes the following points :
1. Primary Objective : The main goal is to provide employment to people in drought-prone areas and to create an ecological balance to mitigate the impacts of drought.
2. Strategy and Development : It focuses on land development, water harvesting, afforestation, and the development of pastures. The programme isn't limited to agriculture but also focuses on rural infrastructure.
3. Coverage : In India, it is majorly implemented in semi-arid regions such as Rajasthan, Gujarat, Western Madhya Pradesh, Marathwada (Maharashtra), and Rayalaseema (Andhra Pradesh).
4. Analysis : While the programme has helped in better water management and increasing green cover, full results are often hindered in some areas due to high population pressure and over-exploitation of resources.