Himachal Urges Central Funding for Jal Jeevan Mission and Flood Control

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri highlighted that funds for the Jal Jeevan Mission have not been released by the Centre, hampering progress. He requested expedited release of funds and additional support for flood management and ongoing irrigation projects during a meeting with Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil.

Himachal Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri on Monday revealed that the Centre has yet to release funds allocated under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) for this financial year, stalling progress in the state.

In a meeting in Delhi, Agnihotri informed Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil that none of the Rs 916.53 crore allocated had been disbursed, emphasizing the urgent need for the release of the first two installments, totaling Rs 458.26 crore. Patil assured him that the issue would be addressed to facilitate the continuation of JJM schemes.

Additionally, Agnihotri discussed the Phina Singh Medium Irrigation Project and requested approval for the 'Beet Area' and 'Kuthlehar' irrigation projects. He also sought funds for flood control under the Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP), particularly for the Kullu district, which was severely affected by last year's monsoon rains.

(With inputs from agencies.)