Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa River Linking National Project, marking a significant milestone in Madhya Pradesh's development journey. Speaking on the occasion, the Prime Minister highlighted how the past year has given a new direction and momentum to the state’s growth. This historic project, the first of its kind in India, is a realization of the vision of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who dreamt of comprehensive water management across the country.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the Ken-Betwa Link Project will open new avenues of prosperity for the Bundelkhand region. He noted that this region has long struggled for every drop of water. While disputes over river waters between states persisted for decades, no concrete solutions were implemented. It was during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure that the idea of river linking emerged as a permanent solution. However, the project was stalled after 2004. Now, this dream is being realized on Madhya Pradesh’s soil.
Prime Minister Modi identified water scarcity as one of the 21st century’s biggest challenges, asserting that nations with adequate water resources and efficient management systems will lead the way in global progress. Citing the transformation of drought-prone Gujarat with the blessings of the Narmada River, he reiterated the importance of water management. The Ken-Betwa project will see the construction of the Daudhan Dam, a ₹45,000 crore irrigation initiative that will irrigate nearly 11 lakh hectares of land.
The Prime Minister pointed out that before 2014; over 100 major irrigation projects across the country were incomplete. His government allocated significant funds to complete these projects. Through modern techniques like micro-irrigation, one crore hectares of land have been brought under efficient irrigation systems. In Madhya Pradesh alone, five lakh hectares of land have been equipped with micro-irrigation facilities over the past decade.
Boost to Tourism: Highlighting Madhya Pradesh’s global recognition, Prime Minister Modi shared that the state has been ranked among the top 10 tourist destinations in the world. Initiatives such as the G-20 meetings in Khajuraho have promoted the state's heritage and wildlife tourism. The Ken-Betwa project’s link canal will further enhance tourism opportunities in the Panna Tiger Reserve, contributing to the region’s economic growth.
Vision of a Double-Engine Government: Prime Minister Modi outlined the vision of a double-engine government working tirelessly to ensure the holistic development of Bundelkhand, Madhya Pradesh, and India. He stressed the importance of good governance, which ensures citizens receive their rightful benefits without unnecessary struggle. Through initiatives like Jan Dhan accounts linked with Aadhaar and mobile, direct benefits from schemes such as the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi and Ladli Bahna Yojana are being transferred seamlessly to beneficiaries.
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