Nod for Maharashtra irrigation special projects

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) on Wednesday approved the implementation of Centrally Sponsored-Scheme for completion of 83 minor irrigation projects and 8 major/medium irrigation projects of Marathwada, Vidharbha and drought-prone areas of the rest of Maharashtra at the cost of Rs 13,651.61 crore.

According to the Cabinet note, completion of these projects will ensure assured source of water to the farmers in the command area of these projects. This will increase yield of their crops and thereby increase the income of the farmers. The special package shall help in creation of additional potential of 3.77 lakh hectares. In Marathwada, Vidharbha and drought-prone areas of rest of Maharashtra.

It said the projects included under special package are over and above the 26 major/ medium projects of Maharashtra having ultimate potential of 8.501 ha being funded under PMKSY-AIBP, which are planned to be completed by December,2019. Total Central Assistance to be provided for implementation of these projects is Rs. 3,831.41 crore. Rest is to be provided by Government of Maharashtra. It is also envisaged that State Share may be arranged through NABARD.

It is believed that on completion of the projects, the utilization of irrigation potential of about 3.77 lakh ha will transform the agriculture scenario of the region resulting in generation of substantially more employment opportunities through increase in cropping intensity and other ancillary activities.