Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav inaugurated the ₹1,353.18-crore Dahi Micro Lift Irrigation Project on November 15, marking a major step towards expanding irrigation facilities in the tribal regions of the state on the occasion of Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas.
The project will provide irrigation facilities to approximately 47,000 hectares of agricultural land across 126 villages in Dhar and Alirajpur districts, benefiting nearly 1.26 lakh farmer families.
Narmada Water to Reach Farmers' Fields
For years, farmers in the region have depended heavily on rainfall due to limited irrigation facilities. Water shortages have also made cultivating Rabi crops difficult.
Under the newly inaugurated project, water from the Narmada River will be supplied directly to agricultural fields through a modern underground pipeline network. The initiative aims to improve water availability and reduce farmers' dependence on seasonal rainfall.
Boost to Agricultural Production and Income
With improved irrigation facilities, farmers are expected to benefit from increased agricultural production and better opportunities for cultivating multiple crops. The project is also expected to support higher farm incomes and strengthen the rural economy by improving agricultural productivity.
Focus on Tribal Development and Rural Employment
The initiative is aimed at improving agricultural infrastructure and supporting economic development in tribal-dominated areas. Improved irrigation facilities are also expected to create better livelihood opportunities within villages and help reduce migration in search of employment.
The project forms part of the Madhya Pradesh government's broader focus on irrigation expansion, farmer welfare and economic development in tribal regions under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav.