Karnataka's Shivakumar to Address Mekedatu and Mahadayi Concerns at Irrigation Ministers' Meet
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Synopsis
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is set to discuss crucial irrigation issues, including Mekedatu and Mahadayi, at a national conference of irrigation ministers in Udaipur. He emphasized the state's ongoing initiatives and addressed concerns about financial management related to welfare schemes.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka's irrigation challenges to be discussed.
- Focus on Mekedatu and Mahadayi projects.
- Proposal for dam repairs submitted to the central government.
- Shivakumar refutes financial management criticisms.
- Conference aligns with India's water security vision.
Bengaluru, Feb 18 (NationPress) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has announced his intention to address the challenges surrounding Mekedatu, Mahadayi, Navali, and dam repair initiatives during the upcoming gathering of irrigation ministers in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
Shivakumar, who oversees the Water Resources department, spoke with reporters prior to his journey to Rajasthan, stating, "A national conference of irrigation ministers is convening in Rajasthan, with representatives from all states invited. I will highlight the grievances our state has encountered in irrigation issues during this meeting."
"I plan to discuss the necessary approvals for the Mekedatu and Mahadayi projects, as well as the concerns linked to the Upper Bhadra Project. Additionally, we have prepared and submitted various other irrigation project proposals to the central government this year," he noted.
"Following the repairs to the crest gates of the Tungabhadra dam, we’ve drafted a proposal for the repair and safety of all state dams and submitted it to the central government. Discussions regarding the construction of a parallel reservoir at Navali will take place with the ministers from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. I have already reached out to the chief ministers of both states to arrange a dedicated meeting on this matter," he elaborated.
When questioned about criticisms from the BJP regarding the distribution of funds for programs such as Anna Bhagya (free rice scheme) and Gruha Laxmi (Rs 2,000 incentive for women heads of families), Shivakumar countered, "These allegations are unfounded. Resource mobilization doesn’t occur overnight; it’s a gradual process, and everything will be rectified by the end of the financial year. There is no financial crisis in our government; we remain economically robust."
"Rice under Anna Bhagya is successfully reaching the public. Aside from media and opposition voices, the general public expresses no dissatisfaction. People appreciate the scheme and have confidence in us. Payments that were overdue for two to three months will be disbursed this month," he clarified.
The State Water Ministers Conference, taking place from February 18th to 19th in Udaipur, is themed 'India@2047 - A Water Secure Nation'. This aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision for a developed and water-secure India, emphasizing sustainable water management to support agriculture, industry, and domestic needs, while safeguarding rivers and ecosystems for future generations, according to a government press release.
