Odisha has emerged as the frontrunner in implementing the Watershed Development Component of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana 2.0 (WDC-PMKSY 2.0). The state has utilised 83% of its allocated funds, earning high praise from Union Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan during a nationwide review meeting.
Efficient Use of Central Funds
The programme, launched in FY 2021-22 and running till 2025-26, aims to restore degraded land, strengthen irrigation, and promote sustainable farming practices through integrated watershed management. Odisha has an overall sanctioned outlay of ₹759.27 crore under the scheme, funded jointly by the Centre and state in a 60:40 ratio.
Union Minister Chouhan, while reviewing progress across all states and Union Territories, hailed Odisha’s achievement as a benchmark for others. He noted that the state’s efficient fund utilisation reflects strong planning, timely execution, and accountability at multiple administrative levels.
State’s Approach and Recognition
Deputy Chief Minister and Agriculture Minister Kanak Vardhan Singh Deo presented Odisha’s progress, attributing the success to coordinated efforts between field officials, soil conservation teams, and farmers themselves. He emphasised that the results on the ground—such as improved soil fertility and enhanced irrigation coverage—demonstrate the tangible benefits of proper fund management.
“Odisha has consistently prioritised sustainable agriculture and natural resource conservation. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to scaling up such initiatives,” Singh Deo said.
New Projects for 2025-26
Looking ahead, Odisha has secured approval for seven additional projects under PMKSY 2.0 in FY 2025-26. These will cover 30,212 hectares of rainfed and degraded farmland with an estimated outlay of ₹82.10 crore. The projects will focus on soil and water conservation, construction of water harvesting structures, afforestation, and livelihood support for rural households.
Officials said these initiatives will significantly benefit marginal farmers and tribal communities, who depend heavily on rainfed agriculture, by improving productivity and resilience against climate uncertainties.
Broader Impacts
Beyond fund utilisation, Odisha’s watershed interventions have been lauded for effective on-ground transformation. Projects have expanded irrigation potential, reduced soil erosion, improved crop yields, and provided alternative livelihood options in rural and tribal belts.
The recent review meeting also saw active participation from Rural Development Minister Rabi Narayan Naik, Principal Secretary Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, and senior officials from soil conservation and watershed management, signalling a whole-of-government approach to implementation.
Odisha’s leadership under PMKSY 2.0 demonstrates how transparent fund management, institutional coordination, and community participation can create lasting agricultural resilience. With fresh projects in the pipeline and a proven record of delivery, the state is well-positioned to solidify its role as a national model for watershed development and climate-smart farming by 2026.
(With agency inputs)
