A high-level review meeting of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) was held under the chairmanship of Union Jal Shakti Minister C. R. Patil, where Himachal Pradesh highlighted key achievements and challenges in implementing irrigation projects.
Secretary, Jal Shakti Department, Dr. Abhishek Jain presented the state’s progress, stating that 149 out of 169 Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) schemes have been completed, while 20 are currently under execution. He emphasized that timely release of funds is crucial for completing the remaining works within schedule.
He noted that PMKSY plays a vital role in the state, particularly under the ‘Har Khet Ko Pani’ component, as Himachal largely depends on small irrigation structures due to its hilly terrain. These schemes have significantly improved irrigation access in remote and rain-fed regions.
Highlighting challenges, Dr. Jain said that around 66 percent of the state falls under forest land, requiring clearances that often delay project execution. He also pointed to damage caused by extreme rainfall in 2023 and 2025, which affected several irrigation projects and necessitated redesigning and additional safety measures.
He stressed the need for climate-resilient infrastructure in hill states and informed that multiple completed and ongoing schemes suffered damage, impacting timelines.
The state urged the Centre to revise per-hectare cost norms from ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh, citing rising costs and difficult terrain. It also sought ₹60.41 crore in central assistance for SMI schemes, approval of new proposals worth ₹273.78 crore under Micro Irrigation Scheme (MIS), and extension of project deadlines.
Union Minister Patil acknowledged the importance of irrigation schemes in boosting rural livelihoods and assured that the concerns raised by Himachal Pradesh would be considered sympathetically.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
