ABSTRACT

Evaluation theories sensitise the reader to the fact that different and contradictory results in evaluations of a single project are not only possible but even expected since factors such as the approaches and methods adopted, the values espoused and intended uses, all influence evaluation ‘findings’ and thus account for their divergence. However, in response to the Narmada movement's periodic demand for independent evaluation of the Sardar Sarovar Project (SSP), the Independent Review Mission and the Five Member Group were formed. It is evident that the two reviews give conflicting stories on the SSP. The fact is that neither of the two reviews violates the 'truth' in the SSP. Reviews are political activities, their outcomes are influenced by the interplay of actors, information, power and knowledge. This chapter should have helped the reader realise the futility of this question, simply because there is no agreeable standard against which to measure the goodness or badness of a project like the SSP.