(a) the schemes formulated for linking of rivers to ensure equitable distribution of water to various States;
(b) whether these schemes would be able to meet the
requirements of water for agricultural purposes in the
States; and
(c) if so, the present status of schemes and the authority
authorised for implementation of the schemes?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES (SMT. BIJOYA CHAKRAVARTY)
(a) to (c) The Ministry of Water Resources, then known
as the Ministry of Irrigation, formulated a National
Perspective Plan for water resources development in 1980
which envisages inter linkages among Peninsular Rivers and
Himalayan Rivers for transferring water from water surplus
basins to water deficit areas for optimum utilisation of
water resources. The National Perspective Plan envisages
creation of 35 Million hectare of additional irrigation
potential. The Government of India established the
National Water Development Agency (NWDA) in 1982 as an
autonomous society to carryout water balance and other
studies and prepare feasibility reports. NWDA has
identified 30 links under the National Perspective for
preparation of the feasibility reports and has completed
feasibility reports of 6 links under Peninsular
Component. Central Government has set up a Task Force to
devise suitable mechanism to suggest modalities for
arriving at consensus amongst the States for sharing and
transfer of surplus water to deficit areas and also to
identify the priority links which could be implemented
quickly as well as mechanism for their clearance, funding
etc.