Shukla MADHYA Pradesh has made remarkable progress in expanding its irrigation network over the past two years, significantly increasing the area of land under cultivation with reliable water supply, said Water Resources Minister Tulsi Silawat addressing a press conference on Tuesday. According to the Minister, the State has created over 16.87 lakh hectares of new irrigation capacity, strengthening the backbone of agriculture and ensuring better crop yields for farmers.

 

“Farmer prosperity and wellbeing are the highest priorities of our Government,” he said during a press conference detailing the achievements of the department. The State has emerged as a national leader in micro-irrigation, promoting water-efficient farming practices that help farmers produce more with less water. Madhya Pradesh’s efforts in water conservation and management have been recognised nationally, earning the state the National Water Award for excellence in water resources development.

 

A major highlight of the State’s irrigation push is the Ken-Betwa multipurpose river linking project, which aims to transform the drought-prone Bundelkhand region. Covering 10 districts and approximately 7.25 lakh farmer families, the project will not only provide irrigation but also supply drinking water to 44 lakh people and generate 130 megawatts of electricity through hydro and solar power.

 

The State is also moving forward with the Parvati-KalisindhChambal river linking project, which will benefit 13 districts, irrigating over 6.16 lakh hectares and improving water availability for industries and households. Another innovative initiative is the Tapi Basin Mega Recharge Project, which will help replenish groundwater levels in the State, making Madhya Pradesh one of the few regions globally to adopt such large-scale managed aquifer recharge techniques.

 

Minister Silawat highlighted the Government’s commitment to dam safety and efficient water management through the Dam Safety Review Panel and the Atal Groundwater Conservation Scheme in Bundelkhand. Over 670 villages across six districts are being covered under groundwater conservation programs, ensuring long-term water security. In addition to rural irrigation, major projects in urban and religious centers are underway. For instance, in Ujjain, the Kshipra river development project and several barrages and ghats are being constructed to provide continuous, clean water for the Simhastha 2028 festival, while also improving local water management.