(a) whether the Government proposes to simplify the process of sanctioning of mega multipurpose irrigation/flood/power projects in the country keeping in view the delays of
several years in this regard;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the priority will be given to less irrigated States in irrigation projects by the Government while providing Central assistance for the purpose; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES & MINORITY AFFAIRS (SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)
(a) & (b) The Guidelines for Submission, Appraisal and Clearance of Irrigation and Multipurpose Projects were prepared by Central Water Commission (CWC) in 1989. The Planning Commission also simplified the procedure of investment clearance to the projects other than those on inter-State rivers from time to time. Subsequently the procedure of project appraisal of Irrigation, Flood Control & Multipurpose Projects for both major and medium projects, having inter-State ramification, had been revised to accommodate various subsequent changes in guidelines of the Planning Commission and the first revised Guidelines in this respect were issued in 2002 by CWC. Further, these Guidelines have been modified by CWC in 2010.
(c) & (d) The Union Government provides Central Assistance (CA) under Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) to the States as per guidelines for completion of ongoing projects. As per the latest amendments to AIBP guidelines made in December 2006, the condition that an ongoing project has to be completed before inclusion of a new project under AIBP has been relaxed for projects benefitting states with lower irrigation development as compared to national average.