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Bundelkhand's Water Revolution: Jhansi's Smart Farming Future
30 Sep
Summary
- Jhansi pilots an integrated water system combining conservation, solar, and micro-irrigation.
- The India-Israel project aims for efficient water use and increased agricultural productivity.
- Farmer training in water budgeting is crucial for sustainable crop planning.
In Bundelkhand, Jhansi is leading a transformative water management initiative by integrating conservation, scientific storage, solar energy, micro-irrigation, and modern farming. The India-Israel Bundelkhand Water Project, costing approximately Rs 19.1 crore for its mini pilot in Gangawali village, aims to create a replicable model for water-stressed areas.
This integrated system combines water storage, solar-powered pumping, and micro-irrigation to achieve higher agricultural productivity with less water. The pilot has already seen the completion of reservoir construction, solar pump installation, and the development of a natural sewage treatment plant.
The project's next phase includes drip and sprinkler irrigation, greenhouses, and an automation system. These technologies aim to deliver water precisely to crop needs, enhancing irrigation efficiency. Over 8.5 hectares will be used for assessing these modern agricultural practices.
Crucially, the initiative emphasizes farmer education with 72 practical training sessions planned. These sessions cover water budgeting, fertigation, and crop planning, empowering farmers to align cultivation with available water resources. This approach shifts focus from land cultivation to sustainable water usage.
The lessons learned from Gangawali will be applied to 24 additional villages downstream of the Pahuj Canal. Preparations are underway for a larger demonstration project. The success of this Jhansi model could offer a blueprint for water security and efficient agriculture across Bundelkhand.
The project's construction is expected to conclude by the end of this year, with operation and maintenance activities planned until June 2029. The expanded farmer training program is scheduled from October 2026 to May 2029, demonstrating a long-term commitment to water resilience.
