Madhya Pradeshs Micro Irrigation Project to Benefit 72,000 Farmers in Dhar and Jhabua

Dhar, October 24 (Daily Kiran) : Chief Minister Mohan Yadav of Madhya Pradesh has announced a significant irrigation initiative aimed at benefiting approximately 72,000 farmers in the Dhar and Jhabua districts. The Narmada-Jhabua-Petalwad-Thandla-Sardarpur Micro Irrigation Project will provide essential water resources for agricultural activities in the region.

During the announcement, Yadav emphasized that the project, which has an investment of over ₹2,387.60 crore, is part of broader efforts to enhance water availability in the area following the construction of the Sardar Sarovar Dam. He highlighted the impressive growth in irrigated land in Madhya Pradesh, noting that it increased from 7.5 lakh hectares in 2002-03 to 40 lakh hectares by 2023. The government aims to expand this figure to 100 lakh hectares, ensuring that farmers have the necessary water for their crops.

Yadav stated that the state government is committed to improving the agricultural sector and the overall prosperity of farmers. As part of these efforts, ₹317.86 crore has been allocated to 16.7 lakh farmers ahead of the Diwali festival. He also discussed ongoing development projects in the region, including enhanced road, rail, and air connectivity, with the inauguration of a new railway line in Dhar.

The micro irrigation project is expected to particularly benefit around 6 lakh cotton farmers in the Nimar-Malwa region. It aims to streamline the production process, allowing for the creation of threads, fabrics, and ready-made garments all in one location, which could also boost exports. Furthermore, the project is projected to create employment opportunities for 300,000 people through the PM Mitra Park, reducing the need for local youth, farmers, and women to migrate in search of work.

Additionally, Yadav announced plans to develop the Amka-Jhamka Mata site as a pilgrimage destination under the Shrikrishna Pathya Yojana, where it is believed Lord Krishna married Rukmini. Savitri Thakur, the Union Minister of State for Women and Child Development, praised the state government’s efforts in empowering women and enhancing skill development for youth.

Kailash Vijayvargiya, the Urban Development and Housing Minister, reiterated the commitment to irrigate 100 lakh hectares of land in the state. He noted that the micro irrigation project will significantly benefit the farmers in the Dhar and Jhabua districts, providing them access to water from the Narmada River.