Question : MODERNISATION OF IRRIGATION SYSTEM IN ANDHRA PRADESH



(a) whether the Government proposes to assist the State Governments including Andhra Pradesh for modernization of irrigation system; and

(b) if so, the assistance provided therefor during the current year, State-wise?

Answer given by the minister

THE MINISTER OF WATER RESOURCES (PROF. SAIF-UD-DIN SOZ)

(a) & (b) Irrigation is a State subject and the planning, execution, funding, operation and maintenance of irrigation projects are primarily the responsibility of the State Governments based on their priorities. The Central Government launched the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) in 1996-97 to provide Central Loan Assistance (CLA) for such approved irrigation projects which are in an advanced stage of construction and beyond the resources capability of the States that can be completed in the next four financial years as per the guidelines of the programme. As per the latest guidelines of AIBP effective from 1-04-2005 provision is there for providing assistance for Modernization of projects to eligible States who meet the criteria provided in the guidelines for which the proposal has to be submitted by the State Governments. No such proposal has been received from Government of Andhra Pradesh for inclusion in Extension, Renovation and Modernization (ERM) under AIBP during 2005-06.

The Government of India launched a programme for Repair, Renovation and Restoration of Water bodies directly linked to Agriculture during 2004-05. The details of the assistance provided to States is given in Annexure-1.