Gadkari Reviews Gosikhurd Project, Stresses Shift to Farmer-Centric Irrigation Planning
In Nagpur, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari chaired a crucial review meeting on Monday, bringing together water user associations, beneficiary farmers, and officials from the irrigation and agriculture departments, along with representatives from the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD), all associated with the Gosikhurd project.
Emphasis on Tangible Benefits Over Mere Infrastructure
During the meeting, Gadkari highlighted that simply creating irrigation infrastructure is insufficient. He called for a strategic shift towards ensuring tangible benefits for farmers, moving beyond construction to focus on real-world outcomes. "Stakeholders must work with clarity on who the beneficiaries are, what they will gain, and what needs to be done to achieve those outcomes," he stated, underscoring the need for targeted planning.
Comprehensive Planning for Last-Mile Impact
Rajendra Deshkar presented the current status of the Gosikhurd project, after which Gadkari stressed the importance of comprehensive planning to ensure benefits reach the last mile. He noted that agriculture in the Vidarbha region remains heavily dependent on erratic monsoons, leaving farmers vulnerable to economic uncertainty. Large irrigation projects like Gosikhurd are vital in this context, he said, adding that assured water supply can support crop diversification, double cropping, and the growth of agro-processing industries.
Integrating Production, Employment, and Rural Economy
Gadkari emphasized that planning must integrate multiple key elements to maximize impact. This includes:
- Increased agricultural production and productivity
- Employment generation in irrigated areas
- Promotion of small industries
- Strengthening of the rural economy
By focusing on these aspects, the project aims to transform irrigation from a basic utility into a catalyst for broader economic development, ensuring that farmers not only have access to water but also reap sustainable benefits from it.
