In a significant move aimed at transforming India’s agricultural water management, the Union Cabinet has approved the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) scheme as a sub-scheme of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). This decision is set to benefit millions of farmers across the country by enhancing irrigation infrastructure and increasing water-use efficiency.

An Investment Towards Efficient Irrigation

The M-CADWM scheme has received an initial outlay of ₹1,600 crore for the year 2025-26, as per the government’s official announcement. This initiative is aimed at modernising the irrigation water-supply networks in designated command areas, ensuring a more structured and timely delivery of water to farmers.

The scheme intends to support micro-irrigation systems by creating a robust backend infrastructure from the existing water sources such as canals to the farm gates, thereby reducing water loss and improving usage efficiency.

Objective of the M-CADWM Scheme

The core objective of the M-CADWM is to provide pressurised piped irrigation networks that will allow the supply of water directly to agricultural lands up to 1 hectare per connection. This underground piped network will act as the backbone for micro-irrigation technologies like drip and sprinkler systems, which are crucial for water-scarce regions.

By strengthening irrigation infrastructure, the government aims to maximize agricultural output through judicious water usage, aligning with the overall goals of PMKSY — which envisions “Har Khet Ko Pani” (water to every field).

Key Benefits to Farmers and the Agriculture Sector

The approval of this scheme is expected to deliver multiple benefits to Indian agriculture:

• Reduction in water loss through seepage and evaporation, which is common in traditional canal systems.

• Boost in crop yield and productivity, especially in arid and semi-arid areas.

• Improved water accessibility for small and marginal farmers.

• Promotion of climate-resilient agriculture through sustainable water use.

The government’s vision is to make farming more viable and profitable while ensuring that environmental concerns like water scarcity are tackled through advanced infrastructure.

Link with PMKSY and Broader Government Goals

The M-CADWM scheme aligns perfectly with the broader framework of PMKSY, which was launched to bring together different water management strategies under one umbrella. By integrating command area development, water harvesting, and irrigation efficiency enhancement, this new sub-scheme will further strengthen the government’s mission.

It is also in sync with other central programs like:

• Atal Bhujal Yojana for groundwater conservation

• Per Drop More Crop component for improving micro-irrigation

• Jal Shakti Abhiyan, promoting water conservation at a national level

The convergence of these programs signifies a holistic approach to irrigation and water management in the country.

How the Scheme Will Be Implemented

Implementation of the M-CADWM scheme will involve state governments and local water user associations, ensuring that the infrastructure is tailored to regional water availability and crop requirements. Some of the expected steps include:

• Identification of command areas with poor irrigation efficiency

• Assessment of current canal infrastructure

• Construction of pressurised underground pipelines

• Integration with micro-irrigation systems on farms

• Monitoring of water usage patterns and output improvement

The scheme will also include capacity-building measures, training farmers on the effective use of irrigation systems, ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of the project.

Rural Empowerment Through Infrastructure Development

The ₹1,600 crore investment is not just about irrigation—it’s about empowering rural communities. Better irrigation means:

• Increased cropping intensity

• Reduced dependence on monsoons

• Less labour-intensive farming

• Higher rural income

By ensuring that water reaches every corner of the command area, the scheme will help reduce agricultural distress, curb rural migration, and enhance food security.

Conclusion: A Step Towards Sustainable Agricultural Growth

The M-CADWM sub-scheme under PMKSY reflects the Union Government’s commitment to creating a modern, efficient, and equitable irrigation system in India. With ₹1,600 crore earmarked for its implementation, it promises to be a game-changer for the agriculture sector, especially for the small and marginal farmers who rely heavily on consistent water supply.

By focusing on infrastructure-driven water delivery, the initiative aligns with India's broader sustainability and productivity goals, ensuring that the nation’s farmers have the resources they need to thrive in a changing climate.

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