The Telangana State government has made a significant request to the Centre: it wants the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) to be treated as a National Project. National Projects are provided a Central grant covering 90% of their estimated cost to ensure timely completion. The KLIP, initiated in 2016 on the Godavari River, is a major undertaking designed to irrigate 45 lakh acres for two crops a year, meet the drinking water needs of 70% of the state, and cater to industry requirements.
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project was launched in 2016 with a targeted aim of irrigating 45 lakh acres for two crops each year. Besides agriculture, the project is also expected to meet the drinking water requirements of 70% of the state’s population, along with providing necessary water supply to various industries. The project is primarily centered around the Godavari River and is a part of the state’s larger vision for growth and development.
Role of the Centre in Development
Under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, the Centre is mandated to support the development of backward areas in the successor States. This includes expansion of physical and social infrastructure. Nine out of the ten districts of Telangana (the state had 10 districts when it separated, it now boasts of 33) were covered under the Backward Regions Grant Fund. In order to provide drinking water and restore irrigation tanks, initiatives such as Mission Bhagiratha and Mission Kakatiya were undertaken.
| Programme | Purpose | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Mission Bhagiratha | Provide Drinking Water | Taken Up |
| Mission Kakatiya | Restore Irrigation Tanks | Taken Up |
Backward Region Grant Fund
The Backward Region Grant Fund is a programme implemented by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj in 272 identified backward districts across all states of the country, excluding Goa. It has been designed to rectify regional imbalances in development. The fund contains two main components: the Development Grant and Capacity Building.
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014
Also known as the Telangana Act, the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 secured the President’s assent on March 1, 2014. The act requires the State of Andhra Pradesh to initiate activities related to the creation of successor states. This includes dividing assets, liabilities, employees, contracts etc. between the two successor states. The act underscores the commitment to ensure balanced development of both regions post-division.
