No New Irrigation Proposals from Telangana in 3 Years, Says Union Minister C.R. Patil

The Union government has highlighted a significant gap in Telangana’s irrigation planning , stating that the state has not submitted any new project proposals under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) in the last three years. The disclosure was made by Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil in the Rajya Sabha , drawing attention to the state’s current approach towards irrigation expansion.

The PMKSY , launched to ensure “Har Khet Ko Pani” and improve water-use efficiency , has been a key driver of irrigation development across the country. Under this scheme, 11 projects from Telangana were included as part of the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) . These projects aim to create irrigation potential for 5.85 lakh hectares , of which over 4.24 lakh hectares have already been brought under cultivation, reflecting steady progress in ongoing works.

Financially, the Centre has extended considerable support, approving ₹1,129.80 crore for these projects and releasing ₹981.49 crore so far. Despite this, the absence of fresh proposals from the state has raised concerns, particularly at a time when expanding irrigation coverage remains crucial for agricultural growth and climate resilience.

At the same time, Telangana has made notable strides in improving water efficiency through the ‘Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)’ component. Since 2015–16, micro-irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler irrigation have been developed across 3.85 lakh hectares , supported by ₹873.95 crore in central assistance, including ₹194.63 crore released in the last three years. This reflects a strategic shift towards efficient water management rather than relying solely on large-scale infrastructure expansion.

The impact of irrigation development has also been visible on agricultural outcomes. According to official data, regions where major irrigation projects have been completed have witnessed a 2.3-fold increase in agricultural productivity , underscoring the importance of sustained investment in the sector.

However, the broader picture presents a mix of progress and challenges. Despite substantial public spending on irrigation infrastructure over the past decade, a significant portion of the state’s irrigation potential remains underutilised . Experts attribute this to factors such as delays in project completion, land acquisition hurdles, and the financial burden associated with large-scale lift irrigation schemes.

The lack of new proposals may also indicate a policy shift towards completing ongoing projects , alongside a growing emphasis on micro-irrigation and resource optimisation . Since March 2022, the PDMC component has been brought under the umbrella of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) , reflecting a more integrated approach to agricultural development.

While central schemes continue to support irrigation expansion and efficiency improvements, the absence of fresh proposals from Telangana could influence the pace of future growth. Going forward, balancing infrastructure completion , efficient water use , and new project planning will be critical to sustaining agricultural productivity and ensuring long-term water security in the state.