Yogi Government's Irrigation Plan: Profitable Farming with Water Conservation

The Uttar Pradesh government is accelerating its efforts towards the goal of ‘Per Drop More Crop’ while ensuring water availability for every farm. The state aims to promote advanced irrigation technologies like sprinkler and drip systems to optimize water resources and double irrigation capacity. Under this initiative, farmers are receiving subsidies of up to 80-90%, benefiting lakhs of them across the state.

Special Focus on Bundelkhand:

The initiative has been launched in Bundelkhand, one of the most water-scarce regions of Uttar Pradesh. To maximize irrigation with minimal water, the government is implementing three major sprinkler projects in Masgaon Chilli (Hamirpur), Kulpahad (Mahoba), and Shahzad (Lalitpur). Additionally, farm ponds built under the Khet-Talab Yojana will be integrated with sprinkler systems to ensure maximum irrigation benefits while conserving water.

Benefits of Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation:

1. Water Conservation: Reduces water consumption and helps maintain groundwater levels.
2. Energy Efficiency: Decreases electricity consumption required for pumping groundwater.
3. Improved Crop Quality: Provides uniform and necessary water supply, ensuring better germination and growth.
4. Suitable for Uneven Land: Can be efficiently used on undulating terrains.
5. Increased Yield & Income: Enhanced irrigation facilities lead to higher productivity and increased farmer earnings.

Collaboration with Israel for Advanced Irrigation:

To make this initiative more effective, the Uttar Pradesh government is collaborating with Israel for technical expertise. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has discussed this with the Israeli Ambassador, and Centers of Excellence are being developed to equip farmers with modern irrigation techniques.

Ken-Betwa Link Project: A Boon for Bundelkhand: To strengthen the irrigation network, the Ken-Betwa Link Project is being fast-tracked. This project will irrigate 2.51 lakh hectares of farmland in Jhansi, Mahoba, Banda, and Lalitpur, while also providing drinking water to 21 lakh people.

Future Plans and Strategy: The government is also working on Phase 2 of the Madhya Ganga Canal Project, the Kanhar Irrigation Project, and the Rohin River Barrage. Upon completion, these initiatives will create an additional 5 lakh hectares of irrigation capacity, benefiting over 7 lakh farmers. The Yogi government’s vision is to make Uttar Pradesh self-reliant in agriculture and double farmers' income by ensuring water availability for every field and maximizing crop production with minimal water usage.

Read More- Drip Sprinkler or Sprinkler Irrigation Vegetable and Wheat Technique