Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project: India gives cheque to Nepal

India extended financial aid of Rs. 99 million to Nepal for the construction of 2,700 shallow tube well (STWs) irrigation  systems in 12 districts of southern Terai region to boost agricultural productivity. The assistance was extended as part of final payment for Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project. With this payment, India has released so far released total of 227.6 million Nepali rupees to Nepal for implementing this project.

Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project

The project was launched in January 2017 to boost growth to Himalayan nation’s agricultural sector through enhanced facilities. Under it, India provided financial assistance to Nepal to ensure all-season irrigation facility to about 8,115 hectares of farm land, augment productivity of rice, wheat and seasonal vegetables, fruits and other crops. Its ultimate objective is to uplift the socio-economic status of farming families in the 12 districts covered under the project.

Background

India has been partnering with Nepal for development of Deep Tube Wells (DTWs) and Shallow Tub Wells (STWs) in various regions of Nepal for several years recognizing scope for improving agriculture productivity in Himalayan country whose economy is mainly dominated by agriculture. The installation of shallow tube wells has been benefiting farmers earlier depended on natural rainwater for irrigation by providing them all-season irrigation facility.

Month: Current Affairs - June, 2018