(a) whether the percentage of irrigation being done through canals
in rural areas of the country has declined;
(b) if so, the steps being taken by the Government for promotion of
irrigation through canals;
(c) whether the canal department charges fees from the farmers
without releasing water in canals on many occasions;
(d) if so, the reasons therefor; and
(e) the steps proposed to be taken by the Government for digging
and cleaning of canals?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF WATER RESOURCES & MINORITY AFFAIRS
(SHRI VINCENT H. PALA)
(a) The operation and regulation of water in canals is carried out by the
project authorities under the respective State Governments. The details about
the status of flow in canals are maintained by project authorities. However, the
share of potential created from Major, Medium and Minor Surface Irrigation
Projects as a percentage of total potential created in the country has declined
from 71% in Pre-plan period to 55% at the end of X Plan, the details are given
at Annexure-I.
(b) To improve the irrigation potential through major and medium as well
as surface water minor irrigation projects, Central Government has been
providing Central Assistance to eligible projects under Accelerated Irrigation
Benefits Programme (AIBP).
(c) & (d) The charges proposed for irrigation facilities are decided
by the concerned State Governments.
(e) Government of India provides financial assistance under AIBP for
eligible Major/Medium Extension, Renovation & Modernization (ERM) projects
for creation of additional potential.