Bhubaneswar 9.11.2026 [ADN] : A major step towards strengthening irrigation infrastructure and transforming agriculture in rain-dependent areas, the Government of Odisha has approved the financial bid for seven Mega Lift Irrigation Schemes under Cluster .XXVIII of the Parbati Giri Mega Lift Irrigation Project in Nuapada district. The initiative will bring assured irrigation within reach of thousands of farmers, reduce dependence on rainfall and create new opportunities for agricultural growth.
Today, the State Cabinet approved the tender for the work with an execution cost of ₹268.22 crore and an additional 21.46 crore earmarked for 15 years of operation and maintenance. Fully funded by the State Government, the schemes are scheduled for implementation over 36 months, with long-term maintenance provisions to support reliable and sustainable operation.
The seven schemes-Boden, Borigaon, Khairmal, Lasunpali, Gandabahali, Chaura and Konabira-will create an additional planned irrigation potential of 8,800 hectares across 59 villages in Boden, Sinapali and Komna blocks. Drawing water from the Udanti River and Lower Indra Reservoir, the schemes will extend irrigation to upland agricultural areas that are difficult to serve through conventional gravity-. based systems.
The seven schemes will introduce modern, pressurised irrigation systems with underground pipelines delivering water up to the one-hectare chak level. By reducing water losses and facilitating micro-irrigation, the initiative will promote efficient water use, greater irrigation security, improved crop productivity and opportunities for crop diversification, particularly during the kharif season.
With these seven schemes, Odisha is advancing towards more efficient, reliable and sustainable irrigation, bringing water closer to farmers and strengthening the resilience of its agricultural economy.
About the Author
