Tripura creates over 1,200 water bodies to promote sustainable agriculture and groundwater recharge. Agriculture Minister Ratan Lal Nath highlights watershed projects, irrigation expansion, eco-tourism, and long-term water conservation plans for farmers across the state.
Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath on Monday said that the Tripura government has created more than 1,200 water bodies across the state to improve groundwater recharge and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The initiative, launched in 2021, aims to ensure long-term water security for farmers while reducing excessive dependence on underground water resources.
The Minister made these remarks while addressing the Bhumi Pujan ceremony of a new watershed management project at Mohanpur. Highlighting the importance of responsible water usage, Nath warned that unplanned and unscientific exploitation of groundwater could pose serious risks for future generations.
“Groundwater is a vital natural resource and must be used judiciously. Some states in India have already exhausted their underground water reserves. Tripura is in a comparatively safe position, using only around 9 percent of its available groundwater. This advantage should not be compromised through reckless usage,” Nath stated.
He pointed out that states like Punjab and Haryana depend almost entirely on underground water, while West Bengal uses more than half of its natural groundwater resources. In contrast, Tripura has adopted a balanced approach, focusing on equitable distribution and conservation.
According to the Minister, the creation of water bodies plays a crucial role in rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and agricultural resilience. “So far, the government has constructed 181 check dams, developed 1,041 ponds, and built 44 Amrit Sarovars. Additionally, 132 abandoned ponds have been rejuvenated,” Nath said.
To further strengthen irrigation infrastructure, nearly 7,000 meters of irrigation canals have been constructed, ensuring better water access for farmers during critical cropping seasons. These efforts have helped farmers reduce crop losses, improve productivity, and diversify agricultural practices.
Under the watershed management programme, the state government has undertaken 48 projects spread across 18 subdivisions. These projects focus on rejuvenating rivers, streams, and traditional water bodies, while simultaneously creating permanent public assets.
Nath also emphasized that environmental conservation is a core component of the programme. Large-scale afforestation drives are being carried out around watershed project areas to improve ecological balance and prevent soil erosion. The projects also integrate eco-tourism development, community spaces, and recreational facilities, ensuring holistic rural development.
Speaking about future plans, the Minister said that additional watershed projects would be launched under Phase III of the scheme, scheduled to begin in March 2026. The upcoming phase will further strengthen climate-resilient agriculture and sustainable water management practices in Tripura.
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He concluded by stating that the government’s vision goes beyond infrastructure creation. “Our objective is not limited to water bodies or plantations. We aim to create green, healthy, and economically resilient communities by combining agriculture, environmental protection, and livelihood opportunities,” Nath said.
