December 10, 2019
Md Nadimul Haque speaks during a Calling Attention Motion on water crisis
FULL TRANSCRIPT
Sir, I want to raise some crucial points:
1) Completion of irrigation projects:
Sir, many national irrigation projects under implementation haven’t even reached their full potential due to lack of funding from the Centre. In Bengal, the Teesta Barrage project had reached only 20% of its maximum potential as of January, 2019. The Centre has also fallen significantly short of promised funding for the Ghatal Master Plan, Kandi Master Plan and Repair of Cyclone Aila damaged embankments in the Sunderbans. The West Bengal government has had to spend more than its agreed upon share in these cases.
When will the government provide States with the necessary funds so that they can complete pending irrigation projects?
- Sir, I feel there is no need to move this subject to the Concurrent List. Therefore, I would like to make a suggestion –
Why doesn’t the Government engage in mobilising domain experts across States to share best practices at the national level?
With Central funding and State level grassroot knowledge, we can develop tailored policies instead of a one-size fits all model for irrigation.
- 3. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana:
Why does such farmer distress prevail despite the PMKSY being in effect for more than 3 years now?
Could the Minister please tell us how the PMKSY proposes to address the serious agrarian crisis in the country?
- Sir, there is a need for innovative solutions:
Sir, will India consider wide scale use of alternatives like Japanese sub-surface dams to preserve water resources and the environment?
