Union Cabinet Approves Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management Scheme under PMKSY
New Delhi, April 9: In a significant step toward improving irrigation efficiency and agricultural productivity, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) as a sub-scheme of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). The scheme will be implemented for the period 2025–2026 with an initial total outlay of ₹1,600 crore.
Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management to Boost Irrigation Efficiency
The Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management scheme aims to strengthen the irrigation water supply network by facilitating water delivery from existing canals or other sources directly to farm gates. Using underground pressurized piped irrigation systems, it will support micro-irrigation infrastructure development across designated clusters covering up to 1 hectare of land.
Advanced technologies such as SCADA systems and the Internet of Things (IoT) will be deployed to ensure accurate water accounting and water resource management. This is expected to significantly improve Water Use Efficiency (WUE) at the farm level and enhance crop productivity, ultimately leading to increased farmers’ income.
Pilot Projects Across Agroclimatic Zones as Part of M-CADWM Rollout
To kickstart the initiative, pilot projects will be launched in various agroclimatic zones across the country. These projects will be funded through a challenge-based approach to encourage innovation and efficiency among states. Based on the outcomes and learnings from these pilot projects, a National Plan for Command Area Development and Water Management will be formulated and implemented from April 2026, aligned with the 16th Finance Commission period.
Empowering Water User Societies for Sustainable Irrigation Management
The sustainability of the Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management scheme will be ensured through the Irrigation Management Transfer (IMT) model. Under this, irrigation assets will be handed over to Water User Societies (WUS), which will be responsible for the long-term maintenance and efficient utilization of irrigation infrastructure.
To strengthen their capabilities, WUS will receive handholding support for five years, including linkage with economic entities such as Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) and Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS). This integration is expected to build local capacity and foster rural entrepreneurship.
Attracting Youth to Agriculture through Modern Irrigation
The modernization initiative is also designed to attract rural youth to agriculture by promoting the adoption of smart irrigation technologies. By creating opportunities for modern, tech-enabled farming, the government aims to revitalize interest in agriculture and support sustainable rural development.
