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Chandigarh, December 25: Irrigation : This year marks significant achievements in Punjab’s water conservation efforts. The Department of Soil and Water Conservation has reached unprecedented milestones. These results are evident in sustainable water management and agricultural infrastructure development.
Divulging further, the Soil and Water Conservation Minister Barinder Kumar Goyal said that the state has implemented transformative projects. These projects are reshaping Punjab’s irrigation landscape. They are also ensuring environmental sustainability.
two new NABARD-funded projects initiated
“Our commitment to sustainable water management has translated into concrete actions that directly benefit our farming community,” stated Sh. Goyal. “The year 2024 has been pivotal in our mission to optimize water usage while enhancing agricultural productivity.”
Barinder Kumar Goyal informed that two new NABARD-funded projects worth Rs. 277.57 crores have been initiated. These projects aim to expand the underground pipeline-based irrigation network in the state. These projects are set to benefit more than 40,000 hectares, marking a significant expansion of irrigation infrastructure.
the initiation of 18 underground pipeline-based irrigation projects.
The department has promoted alternate surface water use effectively. They achieved this through the initiation of 18 underground pipeline-based irrigation projects. These projects harness 67 MLD treated water from sewerage treatment plants. They benefit more than 2,233 hectares through an investment exceeding Rs.50 crores.
Department has laid 860 kilometers of underground pipeline
To ensure irrigation water reaches tail-end areas effectively, the department has laid 860 kilometers of underground pipeline. This benefits 10,841 hectares. The Cabinet Minister announced that the government provides a 90% subsidy to support farmers’ groups in this initiative. Additionally, there is a 50% subsidy for individual farmers.
In a major push for water conservation, approximately 1,874 hectares now use drip and sprinkler irrigation systems. The systems come with subsidies up to 90%. The department has launched Solar-Lift Irrigation projects in 27 villages across the state. They utilize village pond water for irrigation. This helps to check groundwater exploitation, he added.
2024: New Water Conservation & Flood Management Initiatives in Kandi
Similarly, 42 Water Harvesting-cum-recharging structures and Check Dams have been constructed in the sub-mountainous Kandi area of the state. These structures serve the dual purpose of conserving rainwater and preventing soil erosion and flash floods.
New Water Conservation Programs Boost Punjab Agriculture
He said that the year 2024 also saw the launch of several first-time dedicated programs in the state. These programs focused on maximizing surface water use from canals and village ponds. They included check dam construction, soil and land protection, flood proofing, and roof-top rainwater recharging. All these initiatives were designed to benefit the state’s farming community.
“These achievements demonstrate our holistic approach to water conservation and agricultural sustainability,” said Minister Goyal. He added, “Our initiatives address immediate irrigation needs. They also ensure long-term water security for Punjab’s farming community.”
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