The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), launched in 2015–16, aims to provide “Har Khet Ko Pani” (Water for Every Field) by expanding irrigation coverage and improving water efficiency. A major component is the Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), designed to speed up pending irrigation projects.
In Andhra Pradesh, several projects like Gundlakamma, Velugodu, and Munneru remain incomplete. The main issues include:
- Delay in State’s financial contribution, despite the Centre releasing funds.
- Pending completion of major and medium irrigation projects, affecting farmers.
- No new proposals submitted to the Centre for approval.
- Central funding under PMKSY-AIBP for Andhra Pradesh has been halted from 2019–2025, as revealed by Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti Raj Bhushan Choudhary in the Lok Sabha.
The Union Government has earmarked ₹20,658.71 crore for PMKSY and AIBP across India by 2025. However, Andhra Pradesh’s slow progress and lack of compliance threaten to leave many farmers without adequate irrigation support.
For the scheme’s success, timely fund release, effective coordination, and speedy project completion are essential.
