Maharashtra’s Hydrological Secret Is Revealed by a Startling Census: Are You Prepared for the Startling Reality?

In a recent unveiling of statistical insights, the dynamic contours of Maharashtra’s irrigation landscape emerge with resplendent clarity. According to the latest census on minor irrigation schemes, Maharashtra glimmers as the eminent runner-up, nestled snugly behind the towering titan of Uttar Pradesh. This illuminating dossier, graciously disseminated by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation, paints a vivid tableau of Maharashtra’s hydrological tapestry, boasting a staggering 23.14 million minor irrigation schemes.

A meticulous dissection of these schemes unveils a nuanced dichotomy: 94.8 percent gracefully dance to the rhythm of Ground Water (GW), while the remaining 5.2 percent pirouette with Surface Water (SW). This represents an awe-inspiring augmentation of approximately 1.42 million schemes, a testament to the relentless march of progress encapsulated within the hallowed confines of census data.

Maharashtra’s coronation as the sovereign dominion of minor irrigation extends beyond sheer numerical supremacy. It unfurls its banner proudly in categories such as the venerable dug-wells, the sinuous surface flow, and the majestic surface lift schemes. Yet, amidst this jubilant procession, Maharashtra finds itself in the illustrious company of states such as Karnataka, Telangana, Odisha, and Jharkhand, each weaving its unique narrative into the intricate tapestry of hydrological ingenuity.

Uttar Pradesh, on the other hand, assumes the mantle of preeminence in the realm of Ground Water (GW) schemes, a title fervently contested by the resolute contenders of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, each staking its claim amidst the tumultuous arena of hydrological ascendancy.

But the tale does not conclude with mere enumeration; it delves deeper, unfurling the enigmatic fabric of utilization. A staggering 97.0 percent of these minor irrigation schemes pulsate with vitality, their lifeblood coursing through the verdant veins of agricultural prosperity. Yet, amid this symphony of productivity, whispers of dormancy linger, as 2.1 percent languish in temporary repose and a poignant 0.9 percent succumb to the eternal embrace of disuse.

In an era where inclusivity stands as the venerated lodestar guiding the course of societal evolution, this census casts its discerning gaze upon the gendered contours of ownership. Herein lies a revelation both profound and heartening: 18.1 percent of these individually owned schemes find sanctuary under the stewardship of women. This beacon of gender inclusivity illuminates the path towards a future where the equitable distribution of hydrological resources stands as the bedrock of societal harmony and progress.