CM Majhi Launches ₹120-Crore Lift Irrigation Projects to Transform Farming in Kendujhar, Mayurbhanj
Kendujhar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Friday launched three major lift irrigation projects worth ₹120 crore at Raikala in Kendujhar district, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to agricultural development and water security.
The projects, namely Raikala, Satikudar and Jarakani, are expected to provide irrigation facilities to around 4,280 hectares of agricultural land across Kendujhar and Mayurbhanj districts.
The initiative aims to enhance farming productivity by enabling cultivators to grow two to three crops annually through assured water availability.
Addressing a public gathering, the Chief Minister said the state government is working to expand irrigation coverage across Odisha and has set a target of bringing 15 lakh hectares under irrigation over the next five years.
He noted that ₹14,500 crore has been allocated for irrigation projects in the current state budget.
Highlighting achievements in the irrigation sector, Majhi said the government has completed six inter-river reservoir projects, lined 1,941 kilometres of field channels with RCC, constructed 656 check dams and renovated 1,022 existing dams to strengthen agricultural infrastructure.
The Chief Minister also announced that the Kanupur Irrigation Project in Kendujhar is scheduled for inauguration in December.
Beyond irrigation, several development initiatives were unveiled during the visit.
These included the inauguration of the Jhumpura Community Health Centre built at a cost of ₹17.97 crore and a new State Bank of India branch in Raikala.
He further announced plans for a ₹24-crore sports complex and a ₹30-crore residential school for SC and ST students.
Majhi also highlighted infrastructure projects worth ₹8.20 crore in the Raikala region, covering educational facilities, sports infrastructure, market development, community amenities and road connectivity.
For the broader development of Kendujhar district, the Chief Minister pointed to major investments including ₹313 crore for the development of the Maa Tarini shrine, a ₹287-crore textile park aimed at generating employment opportunities, and the establishment of a Disaster Recovery Centre and Data Centre.
He further stated that under the CM-KISAN scheme, ₹41.53 crore has been disbursed to 2,07,362 farmers in the district, providing crucial support to the farming community.
The newly launched irrigation projects are expected to play a key role in improving agricultural output, increasing farmer incomes and strengthening the rural economy of northern Odisha.
