Union Minister for Jal Shakti, C.R. Paatil, declared that India will halt the flow of the Indus River’s water to Pakistan for its own benefit. This move is expected to aid Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Delhi. The Central government is developing a plan and has a Detailed Project Report ready to divert the water currently going to Pakistan.
The Union Minister highlighted that the Yamuna water project’s progress will be accelerated to enhance water management and benefit states nationwide. Rajasthan, which has a rightful share in Yamuna water, will see increased efforts after an agreement between Haryana and Rajasthan governments. The cost of bringing Yamuna water through pipelines is estimated to be between Rs 77,000 crore and Rs 1 lakh crore.
Union Minister Paatil emphasized that Rajasthan will witness a significant increase in water availability in the future. He mentioned ongoing technical work to ensure Rajasthan receives its surplus water share. The Eastern Rajasthan Canal Project (ERCP) awaits national project status, a decision taken at the Union Cabinet level, to ensure ample water for agriculture and drinking purposes.
On the economic front, the Union Minister praised India’s steady economic growth over the past 12 years, with controlled inflation. He criticized former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for India’s global economic ranking during his tenure. India is now the world’s third-largest economy, with visible benefits from tax reforms.
Regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission, the Union Minister stressed that states are responsible for providing water to every household. The Central government has offered up to 50% financial aid for the first time. Action has been taken against those involved in over 4,000 complaints related to the Jal Jeevan Mission, including the arrest of a former Minister in Rajasthan.
Union Minister Paatil’s visit to Rajasthan was met with a warm welcome by Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa and enthusiastic slogans from Bharatiya Janata Party workers.
