Cabinet approves Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management as sub-scheme of PMKSY

ANI April 10, 2025 201 views

The Union Cabinet has approved a groundbreaking Rs 1600 crore sub-scheme focused on modernizing irrigation infrastructure across India. This innovative program will leverage advanced technologies like SCADA and Internet of Things to enhance water management and agricultural productivity. Farmers will benefit from improved water distribution networks and more efficient micro-irrigation systems. The initiative aims to increase agricultural output, boost farmer incomes, and attract younger generations to modern farming practices.

"The scheme will make robust backend infrastructure for micro-irrigation" - Official Cabinet Release
New Delhi, April 9: The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) as a sub-scheme of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) for the period 2025-2026 with an initial total outlay of Rs 1600 crore.

Key Points

1

Modernizing irrigation networks with advanced IoT technologies

2

Improving water use efficiency at farm level

3

Empowering farmers through innovative management strategies

4

Creating sustainable agricultural infrastructure

An official release said the scheme aims for modernization of the irrigation water supply network for supply of water from existing canals or other sources in a designated cluster.

It will make robust backend infrastructure for micro-irrigation by farmers from established source to the Farm gate upto 1 Ha with underground pressurized piped irrigation. The use of SCADA, Internet of things technology will be used for water accounting and water management. This will increase the Water Use Efficiency (WUE) at the farm level, increase agriculture production and productivity; and increase the income of farmers.

The projects will be made sustainable by Irrigation Management Transfer (IMT) to the Water User Society (WUS) for management of irrigation assets. The Water User Societies will be given handholding support for linking them with existing Economic Entities like FPO or PACS for five years. The youth will also be attracted to farming, to adopt the modern method of irrigation.

The initial approval is for taking up pilot projects across various agroclimatic zones in the country by challenge funding to the states. Based on the learning's in design and structuring of these projects, National Plan for Command Area Development and Water Management will be launched starting from April 2026 for the 16th Finance Commission period, the release said.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
This is a much-needed initiative! Farmers in my village have been struggling with water distribution for years. The SCADA and IoT integration sounds promising 👏 Hope it reaches all states equally.
P
Priya M.
While the tech aspect is impressive, I hope they prioritize training for farmers too. Many in rural areas might find these systems complex to operate without proper guidance.
A
Amit S.
₹1600 crore seems substantial but will it be enough? Water management is a massive challenge across India. Would like to see more details about the implementation timeline.
S
Sunita R.
Great to see youth engagement being considered! Modernizing agriculture is the only way to make farming attractive for younger generations. The water accounting system could be a game-changer 💧
V
Vikram J.
I appreciate the pilot project approach - testing in different zones before full rollout makes sense. Hope they publish the results transparently so we can track effectiveness.
N
Neha T.
The Water User Societies concept is interesting, but will they have enough authority? Past experiences show local participation often remains tokenistic. Needs strong implementation.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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Tags:
Irrigation Modernization PMKSY Agricultural Technology Water Management Farmer Income Modi Government
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