Bhopal, November, 2024 – Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav reiterated the state’s commitment to farmers, calling the Madhya Pradesh government a “farmer-friendly government” that prioritizes the welfare of its food producers. He stated that efforts to provide water to every field are ongoing, enabling farmers to cultivate not just two but three crops annually, resulting in increased agricultural output and farmer prosperity.
Record-Breaking Growth in Irrigation
Dr. Yadav highlighted the remarkable growth in irrigation coverage, stating:
“In 2003, the irrigated area in the state was approximately 3 lakh hectares. Today, it has increased to nearly 50 lakh hectares. By 2025-26, the state aims to expand this to 65 lakh hectares, with a long-term goal of achieving 1 crore hectares by 2028-29.”
He attributed this success to the accelerated implementation of large, medium, and small irrigation projects by the Water Resources Department and the allocation of sufficient funds. The 2024-25 budget includes a provision of ₹13,596 crore for irrigation project development and maintenance.
Ambitious Ken-Betwa Link Project
Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat detailed the Ken-Betwa Link Project, a pioneering interlinking of rivers under the National River Interlinking Project. Key components include the construction of the Doudhan Dam, associated infrastructure, and a link canal.
The project will benefit:
- Madhya Pradesh: 4.5 lakh hectares in the Ken basin and 2.06 lakh hectares in the Betwa basin.
- Uttar Pradesh: 2.5 lakh hectares in the Bundelkhand region, including Banda, Mahoba, and Jhansi.
- Additional Benefits: 103 MW hydropower and 27 MW solar energy, with Madhya Pradesh retaining full ownership.
The second phase of the project will develop 96,000 hectares through the Bina Complex, 20,000 hectares via Kota Barrage, and 90,000 hectares through the Lower Orr project. Additionally, 66.7 million cubic meters of drinking water and industrial water will be supplied.
Progress on Other Projects
The Parwati-Kalisindh-Chambal Link Project is another transformative initiative, benefiting 10 districts in Madhya Pradesh through a tripartite agreement between Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and the Central Government.
With ongoing efforts, Madhya Pradesh is constructing 133 large and medium pressurized micro-irrigation projects to support the “Per Drop, More Crop” initiative. Significant projects include:
- Chitrangi Micro-Irrigation Project (₹1,320 crore): Covering 32,125 hectares in Singrauli.
- Javad-Neemuch Project (₹4,197 crore): Providing irrigation to 18,600 hectares in Neemuch.
Future Vision
Dr. Yadav emphasized that these initiatives reflect the state’s commitment to creating a sustainable agricultural ecosystem, ensuring both irrigation expansion and farmer empowerment. With continued support and investment, Madhya Pradesh is setting new benchmarks in agricultural and water resource management.
Author: This news is edited by: Abhishek Verma, (Editor, CANON TIMES)
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