Is Himachal's ex-CM Thakur Concerned About Centre-Funded Irrigation Project?
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Synopsis
BJP's ex-CM Jai Ram Thakur raises alarms about Central funds for the delayed Phina Singh irrigation project, citing corruption concerns and manipulation of tender processes that could cost the state crores. Will this project finally benefit Kangra farmers?
Key Takeaways
- The Phina Singh irrigation project has been delayed for over 14 years.
- Recent funding of Rs 55.51 crore was released by the Central government.
- Jai Ram Thakur raised concerns about corruption in the tender process.
- 90% of the project funding comes from the Central government.
- Completion of the project is expected to benefit thousands of farmers.
Shimla, June 22 (NationPress) BJP leader and former Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur raised serious concerns regarding the management of Central funds earmarked for the long-overdue Phina Singh irrigation project in Kangra district. Recently, the state government secured a release of Rs 55.51 crore from the Centre for a project that has been in the pipeline for 14 years.
The funding was approved through the Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY).
In his statement, Thakur, Leader of Opposition, accused the Congress-led government under Sukhvinder Sukhu of seeking avenues of corruption within the Phina Singh scheme, which is financed by Central resources. He noted that the government's manipulations in the tendering process are potentially costing the state crores.
Thakur claimed that by imposing certain restrictions, the government is breaching rules while simultaneously excluding major companies from bidding. As a result, the lowest bid for the tender has dropped from Rs 304 crore to Rs 297 crore.
The BJP leader alleged favoritism in the allocation of work to selected companies, some of which reportedly lack experience in dam construction. This situation raises concerns about the misuse of Central funding to favor specific entities.
To expedite the irrigation project, the Union Jal Shakti Ministry had previously approved a budget of Rs 284 crore in August, integrating it into the Prime Minister Agricultural Irrigation Scheme.
Currently, the Centre has approved the project under the AIBP, which allocates 90% funding from the Centre and 10% from the state.
In February 2025, the Central government also disbursed the first installment of Rs 67.5 crore. After being stalled for over a decade, this initiative now brings hope to farmers in Kangra district, according to a state government statement released following the allocation of Rs 55.51 crore from the Central government on June 13.
Upon completion, the scheme will irrigate thousands of hectares, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity. The Phina Singh project in Nurpur began with an initial budget of Rs 204 crore in 2011, which has now soared to over Rs 650 crore.
Point of View
The concerns raised by Jai Ram Thakur offer critical insights into the governance of irrigation projects in India. It's essential to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of Central funds, particularly in vital projects like the Phina Singh irrigation scheme, which holds the potential to transform agricultural productivity in Kangra.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Phina Singh irrigation project?
The Phina Singh irrigation project is a long-delayed initiative aimed at providing irrigation to thousands of hectares in Kangra district, enhancing agricultural productivity.
How much funding has been allocated to the project?
Recently, the Central government released Rs 55.51 crore for the Phina Singh irrigation project, which has been in development for 14 years.
What concerns did Jai Ram Thakur raise?
Thakur expressed concerns about potential corruption and manipulation in the tendering process for the project, alleging that the current government is favoring select companies.
What is the funding structure for the project?
The project is funded under the AIBP, with 90% of the costs covered by the Central government and 10% by the state.
Why is this project significant?
The Phina Singh irrigation project is crucial as it aims to support local farmers by improving irrigation and, consequently, agricultural productivity in the region.
