How Will Gujarat's Nal Kantha Scheme Transform Irrigation for 39 Villages?
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Synopsis
Discover how Gujarat's new Nal Kantha Yojana, a ₹1,536.86 crore irrigation project, is set to revolutionize farming for 39 villages by providing sustainable water access. This initiative promises to enhance farmers' incomes and boost agricultural productivity in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Nal Kantha Yojana aims to provide sustainable irrigation in Gujarat.
- Investment of ₹1,536.86 crore for the project.
- Benefits 39 villages in Ahmedabad district.
- Enhances income for over 60 lakh farmers.
- Expected to cover 35,486 hectares of agricultural land.
Gandhinagar, Sep 8 (NationPress) The Gujarat government has launched the ambitious Nal Kantha Yojana, a ₹1,536.86 crore irrigation initiative designed to provide water access to 39 villages located in the Sanand, Bavla, and Viramgam talukas of Ahmedabad district, encompassing 35,486 hectares of agricultural land.
In response to an inquiry in the Assembly, Water Resources Minister Rushikesh Patel stated that this scheme will incorporate tail-end villages into the Narmada command area, ensuring irrigation through an extensive network of pipelines and canals, while enhancing connectivity through the Narmada and Fatehwadi canal projects.
The strategy also involves interlinking 23 lakes and earthen dams to optimize water supply. The first phase, which has seen an investment of ₹377.65 crore, is nearing completion.
The initial phase includes the installation of 26.18 km of MS pipeline, of which 22.78 km has already been laid as of July 31, 2025. Notable works comprise lining the Godhavi-Goraj drain, connecting it with the Fatehwadi canal, establishing links from the Dholka and Sanand branch canals, and laying new pipelines extending to the Ghoda feeder drain from the Saurashtra branch canal.
For the upcoming second phase, the government has allocated ₹1,154.65 crore and commenced the tendering process.
This phase aims to extend the main pipeline to the most remote villages, backed by a 348 km network comprising 157 km of MS pipelines and 191 km of DI pipelines. To facilitate effective distribution, sub-lines will diverge from the main line, with irrigation water delivered through dedicated outlets every 25 to 40 hectares.
Upon its launch, the scheme is projected to double farmers’ seasonal earnings by ensuring year-round irrigation water availability. Gujarat's economy predominantly relies on agriculture, with approximately 62 percent of its population engaged in agricultural and allied sectors.
According to the latest Agriculture Census and estimates from the state government, Gujarat is home to over 60 lakh farmers, with nearly 84 percent being small and marginal farmers owning less than two hectares of land.
The state boasts around 98 lakh hectares of cultivable land, with principal crops including cotton, groundnut, bajra, wheat, maize, and pulses, alongside horticultural produce such as bananas, dates, mangoes, and various vegetables.
Point of View
The Nal Kantha Yojana represents a significant step toward addressing water scarcity in rural areas, enhancing agricultural productivity, and improving the lives of farmers. This ambitious initiative, with its comprehensive irrigation network, aligns with the government's commitment to sustainable agriculture and rural development.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nal Kantha Yojana?
The Nal Kantha Yojana is a ₹1,536.86 crore irrigation project launched by the Gujarat government to provide water access to 39 villages in Ahmedabad district.
How many villages will benefit from the scheme?
The scheme will benefit 39 villages across the Sanand, Bavla, and Viramgam talukas.
What is the total area covered by the project?
The project will cover approximately 35,486 hectares of farmland.
When will the first phase of the project be completed?
The first phase is nearing completion, with significant pipeline installations already underway.
How will the scheme affect farmers' income?
The scheme is expected to double farmers’ seasonal incomes by providing year-round access to irrigation water.
