One cluster, one crop model will connect farmers with market-linked agriculture

Lucknow : The Yogi Adityanath-led government is poised to revolutionise irrigation in Uttar Pradesh by reducing farmers’ dependence on rainfall and traditional canal systems. Under the visionary leadership of Chief Minister Yogi, a comprehensive blueprint has been prepared to implement the MCAD scheme (Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management Programme), a major initiative of the double-engine government. The Central Government has sanctioned Rs 1,600 crore for this project, which will be launched as a pilot in select areas, with IIT Kanpur playing a key technical role.

This initiative, expected to be a game changer in water management and farm productivity, will ensure consistent water supply to agricultural fields and significantly boost farmers’ income. Irrigation and Water Resources Secretary GS Naveen stated that as per the CM’s vision, the scheme aims to deliver water directly to every farm using Pressurized Pipe Irrigation Network (PPIN) instead of outdated systems. He said, “This modern technology will ensure up to 90% water-use efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and increase crop yield.”

The project is being implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), integrating two major components of the Ministry of Jal Shakti—CAWM (Command Area Development and Water Management) and AIBP (Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme). Phase one will be completed by March 2026, with phase two beginning April 2026, and operations will continue through 2031.

Key highlights of the scheme include: formation of Water User Societies (WUS) in clusters ranging from 50 to 5,000 hectares and enabling farmers to manage irrigation systems and participate in decision-making processes. It also includes use of modern irrigation tools—pipes, sensors, pumps, and filters—with training provided to farmers, in order to enhance their technical skills and save 150 million cubic meters in the first phase alone. It will also lead to employment generation for thousands of youth in project execution, maintenance, and technical support. Adoption of the ‘One Cluster, One Crop’ model will boost crop quality and market value. Promotion of Make in India through indigenous manufacturing of equipment, will benefit MSMEs and spurring local industrial activity.

Robust monitoring will be ensured at national, state, and district levels, with a central committee headed by the Secretary of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, the Chief Secretary at the state level, and District Magistrates at the local level. Additionally, real-time tracking will be enabled through advanced tools, including IoT, SCADA, GIS, and satellite data. CM Yogi has directed officials to complete the pilot phase on time in every district and ensure the active involvement of WUS. This bold step will not only conserve water but also enhance productivity, increase farmer incomes, and promote agricultural self-reliance across Uttar Pradesh.