Uttar Pradesh is set to launch an ambitious drive across the state to provide superior irrigation options to farmers while prioritizing water conservation efforts. Water Power Minister Swatantra Dev Singh revealed plans during a high-level review meeting, emphasizing expansion in water-scarce zones like Bundelkhand.
The flagship Chief Minister’s Minor Irrigation Scheme will see the installation of thousands of deep and medium-depth tubewells, converting arid lands into fertile fields. Officials will also prioritize renovating existing check dams and constructing fresh ones to bolster groundwater reserves. This comes hot on the heels of a detailed six-hour session where district engineers showcased their progress.
Singh commended the strides made since 2017-18, with 1.37 lakh hectares gaining extra irrigation cover. In Bundelkhand alone, 4,678 deep and 3,050 medium-deep tubewells have been drilled, alongside 132 solar pumps for eco-friendly pumping. Water conservation has been ramped up through 868 new check dams, repairs to 724 old structures, and revival of 476 ponds.
Rooftop rainwater harvesting on 739 public buildings is further aiding recharge efforts. The impact is evident: food grain output has risen, farmer earnings have climbed, and out of Bundelkhand’s 47 blocks, 25 are now groundwater-safe. Western UP districts received similar accolades for their proactive work.
As climate pressures mount, this campaign underscores the Yogi government’s focus on sustainable farming. By addressing irrigation gaps head-on, UP aims to secure food security and rural prosperity, setting a model for other states grappling with similar issues.