PRAGATI IRRIGATION PROJECTS
Why in News?
- A key PRAGATI, highlighted 86 projects by the Department of Water Resources, with irrigation works achieving 73% average progress.
- PRAGATI mechanism is making headlines following the 50th milestone meeting and significant updates from the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Key Features
- Objective: To accelerate the implementation of long-stalled irrigation projects by resolving inter-ministerial and Centre-State bottlenecks such as land acquisition, forest clearances, and fund releases.
- Key Projects Reviewed:
- North Koel Reservoir Project (Bihar & Jharkhand).
- Gosikhurd Project and CADWM works (Maharashtra).
- Subernarekha Multipurpose Project (Jharkhand & Odisha).
- Sulwade–Jamphal–Kanoli Lift Irrigation Scheme.
- Lower Pedhi Project and Aruna Medium Irrigation Project.
- Progress Metrics:
- 10 Priority Projects: Worth ₹43,583 crore are under high-level review.
- Implementation Status: One project is already commissioned, and nine are currently under implementation.
- Physical Progress: Projects reviewed under this mechanism have achieved an average physical progress of 73%.
- Modernization Initiative: In April 2025, the Cabinet approved the Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) as a sub-scheme of PMKSY (2025-2026) with an outlay of ₹1,600 crore to improve water use efficiency.
- The PRAGATI Framework:
- Technology: Combines digital data management, video-conferencing, and geo-spatial technology for real-time monitoring.
- Three-Tier System: Involves direct interaction between the PMO, Union Government Secretaries, and State Chief Secretaries on the 4th Wednesday of every month (PRAGATI Day).
- Impact: Over the last decade, PRAGATI has fast-tracked projects worth more than ₹85 lakh crore nationally.
