New Delhi: A high-level delegation from the Ministry of Rural Development, led by Shri Narendra Bhooshan, Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Land Resources, conducted an extensive field visit of Watershed Development projects under the Watershed Development Component of Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana 2.0 (WDC-PMKSY 2.0) in Magarlod block of Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh on Thursday.
The delegation, accompanied by Joint Secretary (Watershed Management) Shri Nitin Khade and District Collector Shri Abinash Mishra, reviewed various initiatives focused on protective irrigation, livelihood enhancement, and soil and water conservation.
During the visit to Sankra village, the Secretary inspected a stop dam constructed through the convergence of WDC and MGNREGA at a cost of ₹40.34 lakh. The structure has brought nearly 80–85 acres under irrigation and is benefiting more than 50 farmers. In Belaudi village, the delegation reviewed a 430-metre irrigation canal developed at a cost of ₹20.20 lakh, which currently provides irrigation to around 150 acres and has helped reduce soil erosion significantly.
The team also visited a five-acre plantation site in Saunga village, where 1,050 guava and lemon trees have been planted on a river island. To address water scarcity issues, officials advised the creation of small ponds (daris) in the area.
The delegation further reviewed “Amrit Sarovar” projects in Bodra and Gadadih villages for their contribution to groundwater recharge and community water access.
A major highlight of the visit was the Lift Irrigation Project in Gadadih, which utilizes water from the Mahanadi River to irrigate 85 hectares of farmland, benefiting nearly 250 farmers. Shri Narendra Bhooshan described the initiative as a “Success Model” and directed officials to document such achievements as state-level templates for future watershed development projects.
The visit concluded with an inspection of a vegetable cultivation farm in Belaudi village, where farmers were appreciated for adopting horticulture practices to enhance their incomes.