Photo Courtesy: nenow
Kohima: Two villages in Nagaland, Jalukiekam and Beisumpuikam, have been chosen for a federal project designed to upgrade agricultural irrigation. The Union Ministry of Jal Shakti selected these locations to implement the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management scheme, which replaces aging canal systems with pressurized piped networks to increase water efficiency.
Deputy Director Shubham Pachauri explained that current canal infrastructure suffers from significant leaks and inequitable water distribution that leaves some farmers without adequate supplies. He noted that the new pipe system ensures reliable, precise delivery of water to individual fields. Regarding the upgrade, Pachauri said, "The scheme would help farmers by providing opportunities for multi-cropping and increased cultivation throughout the year, which would, in turn, boost crop yields and increase their income."
A core component of the program involves the creation of Water User Societies. Once the initial project phase concludes, local farmers will take over the ownership and management of their irrigation systems. Pachauri also highlighted that the initiative prioritizes the participation of women and encourages the adoption of new water-saving technologies to improve long-term agricultural prosperity.
Peren Deputy Commissioner Hiazu Meru welcomed the pilot program during an awareness event at the Beisumpuikam Village Council Hall. He thanked the central government for the initiative and urged local farmers to actively utilize the new resources to improve their farming outcomes.
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