In Bengaluru, the Karnataka government rolled out its ambitious “Neeriddare Naale” – or “Water is Future” – water‑security project on Thursday. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar opened the initiative at the Vidhana Soudha banquet hall, announcing a major push to restore the state’s shrinking freshwater resources.
Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology N.S. Bosaraju explained that Karnataka has already cleared over 35,000 encroached lakes. The government plans to empty and fill 41,849 lakes by December, boosting groundwater levels and providing reliable water for 25 lakh acres of farmland. The state now fills 1,018 lakes each year, a move that has already lifted water tables in the H.N. and K.C. Valley areas.
“We’re on a mission to make Karnataka water‑rich,” Bosaraju said, noting that 60% of the state’s agriculture relies on borewells. He underscored the need to correct groundwater decline, especially as droughts hit every four to five years and nearly 44 taluks experience excessive groundwater extraction.
The Groundwater Department is generating real‑time data, measuring levels every six hours across 2,714 sites. This data feeds Ministry plans to protect farmers who depend on sustainable irrigation.
Law, Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism Minister H.K. Patil highlighted the shift from a five‑scheme guarantee to a comprehensive water guarantee for Karnataka. “The government focuses on farmers’ prosperity and welfare,” he said, praising the Minor Irrigation Department’s role in the water‑rich vision.
The project also drew praise from environmental champion Rajendra Singh, known as the “Waterman of India.” Singh noted Karnataka’s top‑rank in groundwater rejuvenation and urged a decentralized, community‑led approach to water protection.
With “Neeriddare Naale,” Karnataka aims to halt water scarcity, secure farmer livelihoods, and build a resilient, future‑proof water system for the state.
Source: ianslive
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
