Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh, December 25, 2024: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for the Ken-Betwa River Link Project, marking a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to enhance water distribution and agricultural productivity in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.
The ambitious project, estimated at ₹44,605 crore, aims to provide drinking water to nearly 65 lakh people across ten districts in Madhya Pradesh and 21 lakh people in Uttar Pradesh. “This project will change the lives of millions by ensuring regular and reliable water supply for drinking and irrigation,” Modi stated at the ceremony.
In addition to water supply, the project is set to benefit 7.18 lakh agricultural families in 2,000 villages through improved irrigation facilities. It is also expected to generate 103 MW of hydropower and 27 MW of solar energy, contributing to both local development and renewable energy production.
As part of the launch event, Union Water Resources Minister CR Patil and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav handed over two urns, symbolizing waters from the Betwa and Ken rivers, which Modi poured over a model to formally initiate the project.
Modi also took the opportunity to inaugurate the Omkareshwar Floating Solar Project in Khandwa district, which will complement the state’s renewable energy initiatives.
The prime minister further honored the memory of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on his birth centenary by releasing a commemorative stamp and coin. “Vajpayee’s vision for river linking as a means of addressing irrigation challenges and flood control remains a cornerstone of our development agenda,” Modi remarked.
In another development, Modi performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of 1,153 Atal Gram Sewa Sadans, which are set to provide essential services in rural areas at an estimated cost of ₹437 crore. This is in line with the government’s broader push to empower rural India and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
The Ken-Betwa project, alongside these initiatives, underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development and addressing water scarcity in the region.
