How is Tamil Nadu Revitalizing 917 Lakes to Enhance Agricultural Infrastructure?
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Synopsis
Discover how the Tamil Nadu government has rejuvenated 917 lakes and constructed check dams to boost agricultural infrastructure and enhance water resources. These initiatives are transforming barren land into cultivable areas, significantly impacting food production and rural livelihoods.
Key Takeaways
- 917 lakes rejuvenated across 27 districts.
- 88 check dams constructed for enhanced water conservation.
- Investment of Rs 1,212 crore in lake rejuvenation.
- 47,286 acres of fallow land transformed into cultivable land.
- Food grain production increased to 457.08 lakh tonnes.
Chennai, May 20 (NationPress) Since taking office in 2021, the Tamil Nadu government has embarked on significant rejuvenation and infrastructure projects to bolster the state’s water resources and agricultural output. As stated by officials, the Water Resources Department has revitalized 917 lakes across 27 districts at an estimated expenditure of Rs 1,212 crore.
Moreover, the state has built 88 check dams in 24 districts, investing Rs 519 crore to enhance water conservation and manage flow for irrigation purposes.
Through the Kalaignarin All Village Integrated Agriculture Development Scheme, the government has converted 47,286 acres of barren land into arable land in 10,817 village panchayats, with a total investment of Rs 786.86 crore.
These initiatives have led to an increase in the state’s overall irrigated area, rising from 36.07 lakh hectares in 2020-21 to 38.33 lakh hectares in 2023-24.
In the last four years, Tamil Nadu recorded a total food grain production of 457.08 lakh tonnes, achieving an average agricultural growth rate of 5.66 percent, as reported by the government.
To further enhance water infrastructure, the state desilted 5,427 km of canals and 8,540 minor irrigation ponds. Additionally, 2,382 new ponds and 2,474 borewells were established to support irrigation and groundwater recharge, according to the statement.
As part of its agricultural mechanization program, the government has distributed modern farming equipment to 62,820 farmers, with an investment of Rs 499 crore. These tools aim to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on manual labor in farming operations.
The state has also made strides in the animal husbandry and fisheries sectors. Milk production has steadily increased, while Tamil Nadu remains one of the top states in egg production.
To aid the fishing community, 72 fish landing centres have been established at a cost of Rs 1,428 crore, as per the official statement. These centres are expected to enhance marine infrastructure, improve post-harvest processing, and uplift the livelihoods of coastal fishermen.
The government emphasized that these integrated initiatives across irrigation, agriculture, and allied sectors are designed to ensure sustainable growth, enhance rural livelihoods, and improve the overall resilience of the farming and fishing communities in Tamil Nadu.
Point of View
I recognize Tamil Nadu's proactive approach towards revitalizing its agricultural sector through significant investment in water resources and infrastructure. These initiatives not only promise sustainable growth but also aim to uplift rural communities, showcasing a commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen alike.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What initiatives has the Tamil Nadu government undertaken to improve agriculture?
The Tamil Nadu government has rejuvenated 917 lakes, constructed 88 check dams, and converted fallow land into cultivable land through various schemes.
How much has been invested in these agricultural projects?
A total investment of around Rs 2,500 crore has been made across various initiatives to bolster agricultural infrastructure and water resources.
What is the impact of these initiatives on food production?
Tamil Nadu has recorded a food grain production of 457.08 lakh tonnes, with a growth rate of 5.66 percent over the past four years.
How is the fishing community being supported?
The government has established 72 fish landing centres at a cost of Rs 1,428 crore to enhance marine infrastructure and improve fishermen's livelihoods.
What role does agricultural mechanization play?
The government has distributed modern farming equipment to over 62,000 farmers, which aims to increase efficiency and reduce reliance on labor.
