Assam seeks greater Centre's support for irrigation, agriculture development
New Delhi, June 16
Assam Irrigation, Agriculture and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pijush Hazarika on Tuesday met Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Patil and Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi, seeking enhanced cooperation from the Centre for the development of the state's irrigation and agriculture sectors.
During his meeting with Patil at the latter's official residence, Hazarika highlighted Assam's vast irrigation potential owing to the Brahmaputra river system and its extensive network of tributaries spread across the state.
The Assam Minister informed the Union Minister that the state has irrigation potential covering nearly 2.7 million hectares of agricultural land. However, only around 700,000 hectares are currently covered under existing irrigation schemes, leaving significant scope for expansion.
The two leaders discussed measures to strengthen irrigation infrastructure across Assam and explore ways to expand irrigation coverage in line with the Centre's "Har Khet Ko Pani" vision. Hazarika emphasised the need for greater investment and coordinated efforts to harness the state's water resources for boosting agricultural productivity.
Patil appreciated Assam's immense potential in the irrigation sector and assured all possible support from the Government of India for the development and modernisation of irrigation facilities in the state.
Later, Hazarika called on Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan at his official residence. The meeting marked Hazarika's first formal interaction with Chouhan after assuming charge as Assam's Agriculture Minister.
During the discussions, Hazarika briefed the Union Minister on the overall status of Assam's agriculture sector, ongoing government initiatives and future development prospects. He also shared the state's priorities aimed at increasing farm productivity, strengthening rural livelihoods, and improving farmers' welfare.
Chouhan, a veteran leader with extensive experience in the agriculture sector, offered valuable suggestions and guidance on accelerating agricultural growth in Assam. He assured the state government of the Centre's full cooperation in implementing schemes and programmes to enhance agricultural development and farmers' welfare.
According to officials, the two meetings are expected to further strengthen coordination between the Assam government and the Centre, particularly in key sectors such as irrigation and agriculture.
The discussions assume significance as Assam seeks to expand irrigation coverage, improve agricultural infrastructure and leverage central support to unlock the state's vast agrarian potential.
The meetings also underscored the commitment of both the state and central governments to work jointly towards sustainable agricultural growth and improved outcomes for farmers across Assam.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good initiative by Pijush Hazarika. But Assam needs more than just promises. We have 2.7 million hectares potential but only 700,000 covered - that's a huge gap. Centre should expedite funds and technology transfer. Jai Kisan! 🌾
'Har Khet Ko Pani' is a good slogan but implementation is key. I've seen many states struggle with waterlogging and drainage issues. Hope Assam learns from those mistakes and focuses on both irrigation AND flood management, especially with Brahmaputra.
I'm from Nagaon and our farmers struggle every year - either floods or droughts. Centre should give more support for micro-irrigation projects. Big dams aren't the only answer, we need small check dams and canal networks too. Hope Chouhan ji's experience helps here.
Seems like another political meeting with photo ops. Assam's agriculture has suffered for decades due to lack of proper planning. We need better storage facilities, market access, and crop insurance along with irrigation. Let's see some concrete outcomes in next budget.
Positive step! As someone who works with NGOs in rural Assam, I can say irrigation is the biggest hurdle. Farmers rely on monsoons which are unpredictable now. Modern techniques like drip irrigation and solar pumps would help small farmers a lot. Hope Assam government follows up seriously.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.