Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has urged farmers to shift from groundwater-based irrigation to canal-based systems to address the alarming depletion of groundwater in the state. Speaking at a farmers' convention in Ludhiana, Mann emphasized the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to safeguard the future of agriculture in Punjab.
Groundwater Crisis in Punjab
Punjab, known as the food bowl of India, has been facing a severe groundwater crisis due to excessive extraction for irrigation. The state's groundwater level has been declining at an alarming rate, with some areas witnessing a drop of over 30 meters in the past two decades. The over-reliance on tubewells and borewells has exacerbated the problem, leading to concerns about water scarcity in the near future.
Chief Minister's Appeal
During his address, Mann called upon farmers to voluntarily adopt canal irrigation, which is not only more sustainable but also cost-effective in the long run. He highlighted that the state government is working on expanding the canal network and ensuring adequate water supply to farms. The Chief Minister also assured farmers that the government would provide necessary support, including subsidies for canal water usage and maintenance of watercourses.
Mann further stated that the government is promoting micro-irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems to optimize water usage. He urged farmers to participate in awareness campaigns and adopt modern farming practices that conserve water. The Chief Minister warned that if immediate steps are not taken, the state could face a severe water crisis, impacting both agriculture and drinking water supplies.
Government Initiatives
The Punjab government has launched several schemes to encourage canal irrigation, including the 'Canal Water Conservation Scheme' and the 'Micro-Irrigation Fund'. Under these initiatives, farmers are provided financial assistance for installing drip and sprinkler systems, as well as for lining watercourses to prevent seepage. The government has also set up a task force to monitor groundwater levels and recommend measures for sustainable usage.
Farmers' Response
Many farmers present at the convention expressed willingness to adopt canal irrigation, citing the rising costs of electricity and diesel for pumping groundwater. However, some raised concerns about the reliability of canal water supply, especially during peak summer months. Mann assured them that the government is investing in modernizing the canal network and improving water storage capacity to ensure round-the-clock supply.
The Chief Minister also emphasized the role of community participation in water conservation. He called upon farmer unions and cooperative societies to spread awareness and facilitate the transition to canal-based irrigation. Mann concluded by stating that the government is committed to supporting farmers in every possible way to ensure a sustainable and prosperous agricultural future for Punjab.
