Punjab Irrigation and Water Management Plan: In a press conference held in Chandigarh, the Punjab government shared key updates on water management, agriculture reforms, and youth welfare. Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann outlined a large-scale development strategy aimed at reducing groundwater dependency and expanding canal irrigation across the state.
Massive Push for Irrigation Infrastructure
During the press conference, the government highlighted a historic investment of ₹6,700 crore under its Punjab irrigation and water management plan. The initiative includes the development of 14,000 km of new pipelines and 4,000 km of canals in the current phase.
As part of the Punjab irrigation and water management plan, full water supply to canals will begin from May 1, ensuring wider irrigation coverage for farmers across the state.
Improved Water Distribution Across Regions
Officials stated that under the Punjab irrigation and water management plan, even tail-end areas such as Fazilka and Abohar will receive canal water by May 2. This step aims to ensure equitable water distribution to all agricultural regions.
The government also reported significant improvement in groundwater levels, which have risen by 2 to 4 meters due to ongoing recharge efforts linked to the Punjab irrigation and water management plan.
ਅੱਜ ਚੰਡੀਗੜ੍ਹ ਵਿਖੇ ਪ੍ਰੈੱਸ ਕਾਨਫਰੰਸ ਦੌਰਾਨ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਦੇ ਪਾਣੀ, ਕਿਸਾਨੀ ਅਤੇ ਨੌਜਵਾਨਾਂ ਦੇ ਸੁਨਹਿਰੀ ਭਵਿੱਖ ਲਈ ਅਹਿਮ ਜਾਣਕਾਰੀਆਂ ਸਾਂਝੀਆਂ ਕੀਤੀਆਂ। ਸਾਡਾ ਮੁੱਖ ਟੀਚਾ ਧਰਤੀ ਹੇਠਲੇ ਪਾਣੀ ਦੀ ਵਰਤੋਂ ਘਟਾ ਕੇ ਨਹਿਰੀ ਸਿੰਚਾਈ ਨੂੰ ਹਰ ਖੇਤ ਤੱਕ ਪਹੁੰਚਾਉਣਾ ਹੈ।
ਸਿੰਚਾਈ ਢਾਂਚੇ ਲਈ ₹6700 ਕਰੋੜ ਦਾ ਇਤਿਹਾਸਕ ਨਿਵੇਸ਼ ਕੀਤਾ ਗਿਆ ਹੈ। 14,000… pic.twitter.com/bZ9MKHbiqx
— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) April 29, 2026
Structured Farming and Water Saving Measures
To promote efficient water use, the government has divided paddy sowing into four zones. As explained in the press conference, this strategy is part of the Punjab irrigation and water management plan, designed to reduce electricity consumption and manage water demand effectively.
Direct sowing of paddy will begin on May 15, followed by phased canal water release from June 1 to support agricultural needs while conserving water resources.
Also read : Mann Govt Expands Canal Water Usage in Punjab to Boost Agriculture
Focus on Youth and Welfare Initiatives
The press conference also emphasized employment and welfare measures for Punjab’s youth. The Chief Minister reiterated that the government is committed to providing job opportunities and securing the future of the younger generation alongside the Punjab irrigation and water management plan.
Assistance will also be extended to Punjabis who have been deported from Australia, ensuring their reintegration and support.
Commitment to Sustainable Future
The Punjab irrigation and water management plan reflects the state government’s broader vision of water conservation, agricultural efficiency, and sustainable growth. Officials stressed that protecting water resources is essential for Punjab’s long-term development.
The announcements made during the press conference highlight a comprehensive approach toward irrigation expansion, groundwater conservation, and rural development. The Punjab irrigation and water management plan is expected to play a key role in strengthening agriculture and supporting farmers across the state.