Through this initiative, silt from dams, ponds, and reservoirs is scientifically extracted and distributed across nearby agricultural farms to enhance water-storage capacity and improve the fertility of the soil by applying nutrient-rich silt to fields
Through this initiative, silt from dams, ponds, and reservoirs is scientifically extracted and distributed across nearby agricultural farms to enhance water-storage capacity and improve the fertility of the soil by applying nutrient-rich silt to fields. Representational pic
The Maharashtra government had set a target of removing 66.91 million cubic metres of silt from 1,274 water bodies. Between April 1 and 7, 63 per cent or 42.29 million cubic metres of silt have been excavated under the ‘Galmukt Dharan, Galyukt Shivar (Silt-free Dams, Silt-enhanced Farms)’ scheme, the state informed on Thursday.
The government said the effective implementation of the project by the administration and the enthusiastic participation by farmers have been key in achieving the success rate.
The scheme has proven to be a boon for small and marginal farmers, in particular.
Through this initiative, silt from dams, ponds, and reservoirs is scientifically extracted and distributed across nearby agricultural farms to enhance water-storage capacity and improve the fertility of the soil by applying nutrient-rich silt to fields.
The state government is providing the funds to carry out the desilting process.
The addition of silt to fields improves soil fertility and enhances water-retention capacity. By promoting the sustainable use of natural resources, the scheme aims to make farmers self-sufficient, the government said. This initiative is proving to be highly useful for small-scale farmers who directly benefit from better soil health and improved water management.
The state government has allocated Rs 2,781.8 crore for the scheme, of which Rs 1,549.9 crore has already been distributed. Of the 35,205 farmers who have participated in the scheme, 31,719 have been deemed eligible for funds. Such farmers have extracted 34.17 million cubic metres of silt.
An additional Rs 1,221.6 crore is expected to be allocated for this initiative, of which Rs 512.4 crore has already disbursed by the Maharashtra Government.
Currently, nutrient-rich silt has been distributed across 1.06 million acres of farmland, marking a significant step towards sustainable farming.
The scheme was launched in 2016 during Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ first tenure. At the time of its launch, Fadnavis had said, “This scheme is not just about removing silt; it’s about water conservation, improving soil fertility, and fostering prosperity among farmers.”
While the scheme began as a water conservation project, it has now become a model for the economic and environmental upliftment of rural Maharashtra, the government said.
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