New Delhi, May 27 (IANS) The Centre on Wednesday held a comprehensive review of the approximately 51,000 ongoing Jal Jeevan Mission schemes in Maharashtra.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde informed that positive discussions were held on completing incomplete projects, resolving technical loopholes, and addressing challenges related to depleting water sources.

The high-level meeting, chaired by Union Minister for Jal Shakti C.R. Paatil, assessed the Jal Jeevan Mission and the prevailing water scarcity situation.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Shinde stated that an in-depth review of all ongoing state schemes was undertaken.

While many projects are nearing completion, some require vital technical modifications. Detailed deliberations were also held on finding sustainable solutions for areas facing challenges due to dried-up water sources.

“Various alternatives were discussed to eliminate loopholes and ensure effective implementation of the schemes. The concerned departments have been instructed to execute necessary improvements and accelerate the pace of work,” Shinde said.

Shinde stated that special emphasis was laid during the meeting on the river-interlinking projects, which are crucial for the state.

He emphasised that this project would prove to be a boon for Maharashtra, particularly for Marathwada and other drought-prone regions.

He expressed confidence that it would significantly expand the state’s irrigation cover and mark a major step towards making Maharashtra drought-free.

Shinde further noted that the Prime Minister has prioritised river-interlinking projects, and Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil maintained a highly positive stance during the meeting.

He described the session as immensely fruitful for farmers’ welfare and for bringing maximum agricultural land under irrigation.

The meeting also featured discussions on expanding the ‘Jaltara’ initiative, an eco-effort aimed at water conservation.

Shinde shared that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s organisation for this initiative, which is currently being executed under Purushottam’s guidance.

Presently, around 65,000 Jaltara recharge structures have been built across the state.

However, Shinde emphasised the need to scale up the initiative further to boost groundwater recharge and ensure maximum water percolation, which will ultimately provide substantial benefits to the farming community.

–IANS

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