Assam Aims to Invest ₹1,500 Crore in Barak Valley Irrigation Projects
Investment Plans for Barak Valley
Minister Pijush Hazarika with Minister Kaushik Rai during a meeting in Silchar on Thursday
Silchar, Oct 29: The Assam government has set an ambitious goal to raise ₹1,500 crore for irrigation initiatives across 15 Assembly constituencies in Barak Valley over the next four years. This effort aims to enhance agricultural productivity, diversify crop options, and increase farmers' earnings.
During a review meeting at the Cachar District Commissioner's office, Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Pijush Hazarika revealed this investment target as part of his three-day visit to the region.
Hazarika stated, “The government is committed to mobilizing at least ₹1,500 crore for irrigation projects in Barak Valley over the next four years, with potential for additional funding based on project needs and execution.”
The meeting concentrated on improving irrigation systems, promoting crop diversification and horticulture, and eliminating bureaucratic obstacles that hinder farmers from accessing government programs.
Additionally, the implementation of various central and state government initiatives, such as PM-KISAN and PM-KUSUM, which are designed to support farmers and bolster the agricultural sector, was evaluated.
“Agriculture cannot advance without robust irrigation. If we fail to support our farmers, Assam's progress will be hindered,” Hazarika emphasized, noting that the state government, with assistance from the Centre, is striving to enhance agricultural investments and boost farmers' incomes.
He also pointed out the lack of digitized land records in Cachar as a significant issue, stating it hampers farmers' registration and could threaten their access to benefits under PM-KISAN and crop insurance schemes.
Ministers Kaushik Rai and Krishnendu Paul are expected to travel to Guwahati soon to address this matter with the Revenue Department and expedite the registration process.
Horticulture Initiatives to Enhance Farmer Incomes
The government is planning a substantial sapling distribution campaign to promote crop diversification and expand horticulture in the area.
Hazarika announced that 2,000 coconut saplings would be distributed in each Assembly constituency within the next three days, followed by 3,000 to 4,000 areca nut saplings per constituency within six days.
Seeds for rabi crops, including maize, have already arrived in the district and will be distributed soon.
Furthermore, the government intends to distribute at least 5 lakh saplings of commercially viable fruit varieties in each constituency during the upcoming planting season in June–July 2027.
These varieties will include mango, jackfruit, guava, and dragon fruit, aiming to encourage farmers to shift towards higher-value horticulture.
In addition, the state is investigating the potential for makhana cultivation across at least 50,000 bighas of wetlands and low-lying areas to broaden agricultural opportunities and enhance rural incomes.
During a field visit to a prominent pineapple-growing region in the Lakhipur Assembly constituency, Hazarika assessed oil palm cultivation and discussed the necessity for improved post-harvest infrastructure, including refrigerated transport. He also addressed the need for facilities to support farmers working in the fields.
The proposed irrigation investments, along with horticultural initiatives and efforts to resolve land record issues, are part of the state government's strategy to strengthen agriculture and improve livelihoods throughout Barak Valley.