New Delhi, June 28(OT Webdesk): In response to widespread concern among the farming community, the Ministry of Jal Shakti has officially clarified that no water usage charges are being imposed on farmers under the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) pilot scheme.
The clarification comes amidst misleading media reports alleging the contrary.
In a strongly worded statement, the Ministry emphasised that the pilot initiative—part of the PM Krishi Sinchayi Yojana (PMKSY)—aims to enhance irrigation efficiency, encourage equitable water access, and integrate smart technologies like IoT, SCADA, and modern pipelines.
“There is absolutely no directive from the Government of India to necessarily impose user charges,” the Ministry noted, citing that both agriculture and water fall under the jurisdiction of individual State Governments as per the Constitution.
Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil had earlier addressed the issue during a press briefing.
Reiterating his stance, the Ministry urged media outlets to refrain from misrepresenting facts that might cause panic among farmers.
The Centre’s reassurance aims to bolster transparency and maintain public trust in government-led irrigation reforms.
