Remarkable Achievements in Irrigation: A Vision to Reach Every Farmer’s Field
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav often refers to the ancient Indian legend of the ‘Philosopher’s Stone’ that could turn iron into gold. In modern times, water plays the same magical role, turning barren fields into lush, golden harvests. Inspired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a fertile and prosperous nation, Dr. Yadav’s mission is clear: “Water for Every Farmer’s Field.” His relentless efforts over the past year have led to unprecedented achievements in the field of irrigation across the state.
Realizing the Dream of River-Linking Projects
Two decades ago, former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee dreamed of connecting India’s rivers to ensure water supply to every farm. However, inter-state disputes hindered the progress of projects like Ken-Betwa and Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal, intended to connect Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan. Through consistent negotiations, Dr. Yadav has managed to break these long-standing deadlocks, paving the way for monumental achievements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project on the 100th birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee, marking it as the nation’s first interlinking river project.
Breakthrough in Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project
Dr. Yadav’s persistent efforts have also resolved issues with Maharashtra for the world’s largest groundwater recharge inter-state project—the “Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project.” With cooperation from the Maharashtra government, the state is moving forward to finalize the agreement. Dr. Yadav states, “Through the Tapti Mega Recharge Project, we will ensure every drop of river water is utilized to its fullest potential, irrigating every corner of agricultural land for the greater national interest.”
Ken-Betwa National Project: A Game-Changer
The ambitious Ken-Betwa National Project aims to construct the Daudhan Dam and a linking canal, with an estimated budget of ₹44,605 crores. Once completed, this project will provide irrigation to 8.11 lakh hectares of farmland in the drought-prone Bundelkhand region of Madhya Pradesh and supply drinking water to 44 lakh people. Additionally, the project will generate 103 MW of power exclusively for Madhya Pradesh. Nearly 7.25 lakh farming families across 2,000 villages from ten districts, including Chhatarpur, Panna, Damoh, Tikamgarh, and others, will benefit from this project.
Parvati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link: Unlocking Prosperity
On January 28, 2024, a tripartite agreement was signed between Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the central government, followed by a Memorandum of Agreement on December 5, 2024, in Jaipur. With an estimated budget of ₹72,000 crores, the project will provide irrigation facilities to 6.14 lakh hectares of new farmland in 11 districts of Madhya Pradesh, including Guna, Shivpuri, Morena, and others. Additionally, the modernization of the Chambal Canal System will enhance irrigation in 3.62 lakh hectares, benefiting 3,150 villages and a population of 40 lakh people.
Reviving the Sacred Shipra River
Dr. Yadav is committed to ensuring the Shipra River remains clean and flows continuously, especially for the Singhast 2028 pilgrimage. The ‘Kanh Diversion Closed Duct Project,’ costing ₹900 crores, will prevent polluted water from merging with the Shipra. Furthermore, the construction of ghats along a 29-kilometer stretch of the Shipra River is underway, with administrative approval granted for ₹778.91 crores.
Groundwater Conservation and Irrigation Expansion
The “Atal Bhujal Yojana,” initiated in the Bundelkhand region, aims to raise groundwater levels, resolve drinking water issues, and expand irrigation facilities. Covering six districts and nine development blocks, the project aims to improve groundwater levels, benefiting local farmers and increasing their income. Additionally, under the Jal Jeevan Mission, sustainable water sources are being developed to ensure the security of water resources.
Ensuring Dam Safety and Future Readiness
Dam safety remains a top priority for the Madhya Pradesh government. A “Dam Safety Review Panel” conducts annual inspections of sensitive dams, ensuring necessary repairs and maintenance. Over the next five years, 27 dams will be inspected and repaired with ₹551 crores of financial assistance from the World Bank.
Conclusion
Dr. Mohan Yadav’s vision and tireless efforts have unlocked new possibilities for agricultural growth and water conservation across Madhya Pradesh. His approach to resolving inter-state water disputes and promoting innovative irrigation projects has laid the foundation for a brighter and more prosperous future for the state’s farmers.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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