Odisha Targets 90% Irrigation Coverage by 2036 | CM Majhi Highlights Pani Panchayat Success
Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has set an ambitious target of achieving 90% irrigation coverage across Odisha by 2036, underscoring the pivotal role of Pani Panchayats in water management.
Over the next five years, the state plans to bring 15 lakh hectares under irrigation through lift irrigation, mega lift schemes, check dams, and barrages.
Currently, 40,380 Pani Panchayats manage irrigation across 24.12 lakh hectares, ensuring equitable distribution and reducing water wastage under the Odisha Pani Panchayat Act, 2002.
Major projects such as the Khairibandhan Barrage in Mayurbhanj, Upper Lanth Project in Balangir, and Brutanga Irrigation Project in Nayagarh are underway to expand coverage.
Farmers are being encouraged to diversify into vegetables, fruits, and flowers to boost income, with the government aiming to double farmers’ earnings through better market access and exports.
Technology is also being integrated into irrigation management, with IoT-enabled water meters, soil moisture sensors, and a pilot project in Nuapada district covering 2,567 hectares.
A memorandum of understanding with Xavier Institute of Management will further strengthen the Pani Panchayat’s efficiency.
Deputy Chief Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo emphasised that empowering farmers with modern irrigation and market linkages is central to the state’s vision of self-reliant agriculture.
Senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary Arabinda Kumar Padhee and Engineer-in-Chief Sagar Mohanty, attended the review meeting.
