Strengthening the Backbone of Odisha’s Agriculture
Odisha, with its largely agrarian economy, has long relied on monsoonal rains and traditional canal systems to sustain its agricultural output. While surface irrigation systems like major and medium canals support a significant portion of farmland, a vast number of regions—especially uplands and interior blocks—continue to lack reliable water access. In this context, Lift Irrigation has emerged as a key enabler, helping draw water from rivers and underground aquifers to irrigate higher elevations and remote agricultural zones.
Despite past efforts, many blocks in Odisha still suffer from less than 35% irrigation coverage, hampering agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods. In response, the Odisha Lift Irrigation Corporation Ltd. (OLIC) has now unveiled a visionary five-year Master Plan (2025–26 to 2029–30) that aims to transform the irrigation landscape, improve climate resilience, and ensure equitable access to water.
The 5-Year Vision: Expanding Reach and Building Resilience
The master plan, formally presented at OLIC’s 209th Board of Directors meeting chaired by Anu Garg, Development Commissioner-cum-Additional Chief Secretary, outlines bold targets:
· Creation of 9 lakh hectares of additional irrigation potential
· Special focus on low-coverage blocks with under 35% irrigated area
· Establishment of 10,380 Cluster Lift Irrigation Projects (CLIPs)
· Installation of 1,50,500 deep borewells to support decentralized water access
By targeting the most underserved areas, the initiative aims to bring previously neglected farmlands into the irrigation network, boosting productivity, food security, and farmer incomes.
Green Energy and Digital Innovation at the Core
A standout feature of the plan is its emphasis on sustainable energy, with a clear shift toward solar-powered irrigation systems. Solar energization is expected to:
· Reduce operational costs
· Ensure uninterrupted water supply in remote locations
· Lower carbon footprint and dependence on the grid
Additionally, digital transformation will be a major focus. The Board recommended integration of:
· IT-based monitoring tools
· Field-level mobile apps for real-time project tracking
· Data-driven service delivery to ensure accountability and transparency
This tech-forward approach will empower officials and farmers alike with tools for smarter resource management and better responsiveness.
Inclusive and Strategic Implementation
Chairperson Anu Garg underlined the need for multi-departmental coordination to ensure smooth and timely execution. She also stressed:
· Sustainability and energy efficiency as central priorities
· Crop diversification to adapt to water-stressed conditions
· Women farmer empowerment, ensuring irrigation assets are accessible and inclusive
This inclusive lens aims to not only increase coverage but to do so in a way that builds climate resilience, encourages agro-economic diversity, and uplifts marginalized groups within the farming community.
A Game-Changer for Odisha’s Agrarian Future
The unveiling of this five-year master plan marks a turning point in Odisha’s agricultural planning. By combining technological innovation, green energy, and inclusive outreach, OLIC’s vision has the potential to transform rural livelihoods, boost crop yields, and fortify the state against climate uncertainties.
If successfully implemented, this plan will not only extend irrigation to millions of hectares of dryland but also become a model of sustainable, tech-driven rural development for other states to emulate. The shared resolve demonstrated at the Board meeting signals a committed march toward a more irrigated, resilient, and equitable Odisha.
(With agency inputs)
