- Secretary Jal Shakti, Dr. Abhishek Jain, along with senior officers attended
- Secretary highlighted both progress and challenges in the state’s irrigation projects
On 24 April 2026, a high-level meeting was convened under the chairmanship of the Hon’ble Union Minister of Jal Shakti to review the progress of PMKSY. Representing Himachal Pradesh, Secretary Jal Shakti Dr. Abhishek Jain and senior officers of the department participated in the meeting.
IBEX NEWS BUREAU,Shimla
Presenting the status of irrigation projects in the state, the Secretary informed that out of 169 Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI) schemes, 149 have been successfully completed, while work on 20 schemes is currently in progress. He assured that the department is committed to completing the remaining projects within the stipulated timeframe, provided the pending funds are released on time.
The Secretary also apprised the Hon’ble Minister of the challenges faced in project completion. He said that nearly 66% of the state’s area falls under forest land, which requires clearances under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) and Forest Conservation Act (FCA), leading to delays. Additionally, severe rainfall disasters in 2023 and 2025 altered site conditions, necessitating redesigning of projects and fresh land acquisition processes. During these disasters, 6 completed schemes (under 111-SMI and 4-SMI) and 6 ongoing schemes (under 14-SMI) suffered extensive damage, further extending the completion timelines.
The Hon’ble Minister appreciated the positive impacts of irrigation projects, as these schemes have not only improved the socio-economic conditions of the people but also provided reliable livelihood opportunities for local youth, thereby reducing migration from villages for employment. This has encouraged them to cultivate cash crops, enhance their income and steer clear of various vices.
The Secretary, Jal Shakti Vibhag, Himachal Pradesh, requested an increase in the per-hectare cost norms from ₹4 lakh to ₹6 lakh, keeping in view the difficult topography, hazard assessments, and climate resilience. He also sought approval for Central Assistance amounting to ₹60.41 crore for the SMI-111, SMI-14, and SMI-4 schemes, along with the approval of new proposals worth ₹273.78 crore under MIS.
In view of environmental and disaster-related challenges, the state also requested an extension of completion timelines for ongoing projects. The Hon’ble Union Minister assured the State authorities that their request will be given sympathetic and due consideration.
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