WD News: Focusing on the central government’s vision for Amrit Kaal – Blue Print for an empowered and inclusive economy, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman, Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, presented the Union Budget 2023-24 today. Here are the significant announcements and budget allotments for the Indian water sector:
Highlights for Water Sector
Water for Drought-Prone Region in Karnataka: Central assistance of Rs 5,300 crore will be given to Upper Bhadra Project. This will provide sustainable micro irrigation and filling up of surface tanks for drinking water. The project is expected to help the state fulfill its water requirements in parched regions.
Aspirational Blocks Programme: This will cover 500 blocks for saturation of essential government services across multiple domains including water resources and basic infrastructure.
Pradhan Mantri PVTG Development Mission: In order to improve socio-economic conditions of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs), this mission will include providing them basic facilities like clean drinking water and sanitation. Rs 15,000 crore will be made available in next 3 years under this plan.
Sharing his thoughts about the Union Budget, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, Union Minister of Jal Shakti, Government of India said that this budget will help in ensuring timely completion of Jal Jeevan Mission.
In Brief: Funds Allotted in Union Budget 2023-34
A) Total funds for Jal Shakti Ministry: Rs. 97,277 crore
B) For the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation: Rs. 77,233 crore
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Rs. 70,000 crore
- Swachh Bharat Mission: Rs. 7,192 crore
C) For the Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation: Rs. 20,054 crore
- Atal Bhujal Yojana: Rs. 1,000 crore
- National Hydrology Project: Rs. 500 crore
- Namami Gange: Rs. 4,000 crore
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Rs. 8,587 crore
- Interlinking of Rivers: Rs. 3,500 crore
Source & image courtesy: PIB, Twitter
