The Hindu: Published on 26th Dec 2024:
Why in News?
The ₹45,000 crore Ken-Betwa link project was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh.
It aims to resolve water scarcity in the Bundelkhand region, spanning parts of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh.
The project also emphasizes crediting Dr. B.R. Ambedkar for his visionary water management efforts, highlighting a historical controversy surrounding his contributions.
Ken-Betwa Link Project:
Purpose: To address drinking water, irrigation, and energy needs of the Bundelkhand region.
Scope:
Connects the Ken and Betwa rivers in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
Irrigation potential: 11 lakh hectares of land.
Water supply for domestic needs in 10 districts.
Power generation: Over 100 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar energy.
Key Developments:
Foundation laid for Daudhan dam irrigation project.
Marks Madhya Pradesh as the first state with two simultaneous river-linking projects (Ken-Betwa and Parbati-Kalisindh-Chambal).
History:
Dr. Ambedkar’s Vision:
Credited with the idea of major river valley projects and the establishment of the Central Water Commission.
PM Modi emphasized the neglect of Ambedkar’s contributions by past governments, particularly Congress.
Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s Initiative:
Concept of river-linking introduced during Vajpayee’s tenure.
The interlinking of river (ILR) was introduced in 1982; it was actively taken up during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's tenure as Prime Minister during 1999–2004.
Prosperity on Ken-Betwa Project:
Economic Impact:
Ensures water availability in drought-prone Bundelkhand, addressing decades-long scarcity issues.
Boosts agricultural productivity and livelihoods in 10 districts.
Renewable Energy:
Hydropower and solar energy projects contribute to sustainable development.
Regional Growth:
Enhanced water management to mitigate disputes between states over river water usage.
Supplementary Initiatives:
Launch of Madhya Pradesh's first floating solar energy project at Omkareshwar.
Foundation for Atal Gram Seva Sadans to improve governance at grassroots levels.
Conclusion:
The Ken-Betwa project symbolizes a significant step toward solving water woes in Bundelkhand, fostering agricultural and economic growth in the region.
Revival of river-linking projects aligns with the broader goal of sustainable water resource management.
The acknowledgment of Ambedkar’s contributions to water conservation underscores the historical context of India’s development vision.
Addressing ecological concerns, such as the potential impact on the Panna Tiger Reserve, remains critical to ensure a balance between development and environmental preservation.
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