The Water Resources Department of Karnataka plays an important role in managing the surface water resources of the state. The department ensures proper water use for irrigation and drinking purposes. The Hon’ble Minister for Major and Medium Irrigation heads this department. It mainly works on developing and maintaining irrigation systems. Karnataka is a state that often experiences water challenges due to uneven rainfall, and hence, the department’s role becomes very important for the state's agricultural and rural development.
Types of Irrigation Projects
The department has classified its irrigation projects based on the size of the command area:
| SL.No. | Category | Extent of CCA |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Major Irrigation Projects | 10,000 hectares or more |
| 2 | Medium Irrigation Projects | 2,000 to 10,000 hectares |
Geographical Overview of Karnataka
- Geographical area of Karnataka: 1,91,791 sq. km.
- This accounts for 5.83% of India's total area.
- Cultivable command area: 1,40,598 sq. km.
- Net sown area: 1,07,000 sq. km.
- Ultimate irrigation potential under major and medium irrigation: 40.66 lakh hectares
Special Purpose Vehicles for Project Implementation
To fast-track the completion of irrigation projects, the department has created four special purpose vehicles (SPVs). These units work under the Companies Act of 1956 and focus on financial and operational management for irrigation projects.
Details of Special Purpose Vehicles
| Name of Nigam | Year of Establishment | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Krishna Bhagya Jala Nigam Limited (KBJNL) | 1994 | Formed to manage and expedite the works under the Upper Krishna Project (UKP). Active since 19th August 1994. |
| Karnataka Neeravari Nigam Limited (KNNL) | 1998 | Created to handle projects in the Krishna Basin (excluding UKP). Functioning since 9th December 1998. |
| Visvesvaraya Jala Nigam Limited (VJNL) | 2016 | Established to provide integrated drinking water facilities to drought-prone areas across eight districts. Active from 1st January 2017. |
| Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Limited (CNNL) | 2003 | Created to manage projects in the Cauvery Basin. Functioning since 3rd June 2003. |
Districts Covered by VJNL
The Visvesvaraya Jala Nigam Limited serves the following drought-prone areas:
- Chikkaballapura
- Kolar
- Bangalore Rural
- Chitradurga
- Chikkamagalur
- Hassan
- Davanagere
- Tumkur
Command Area Development Authority (CADA) Directorate
- CADA Directorate was formed under G.O. No. WRD:39/CAM/2011 dated 17.11.2012.
- It helps in coordinating between water users' co-operative societies and various CADAs across Karnataka.
- The goal is to reduce the gap between the irrigation potential created and actual usage.
Advanced Centre for Integrated Water Resources Management (ACIWRM)
- Established on 7th February 2012 under G.O. No. WRD/64/MBI/2011.
- ACIWRM works as a policy and research center.
- The center supports the Water Resources Department in implementing Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM).
- It helps in updating water-related data, building knowledge, and supporting efficient planning.
Forest and Land Acquisition Cell
- A dedicated Forest and Land Acquisition Cell was created through G.O. dated 25.08.2014.
- The cell focuses on:
- Forest clearance proposals.
- Land acquisition is required for irrigation projects.
- It is headed by the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF).
Key Functions of the Water Resources Department
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Water harnessing | Utilizes surface water for both irrigation and drinking purposes. |
| Irrigation infrastructure development | Plans, constructs, and manages major and medium irrigation projects. |
| Financial planning | Form SPVs like KBJNL, KNNL, VJNL, and CNNL to fund and complete projects. |
| Coordination with stakeholders | Works with CADA and co-operative societies for efficient water usage. |
| Policy support | Engages in research and policy-making through ACIWRM. |
| Land and forest management | Ensures land and forest approvals for smooth project execution. |
Major Achievements of the Department
- Successful establishment of four functional special-purpose units to handle different regions and challenges.
- Improved irrigation potential across Karnataka through strategic water project implementation.
- Enhanced water supply in drought-prone regions through VJNL.
- Better policy and decision-making support through ACIWRM’s initiatives.
- Coordination of land and forest clearance to avoid project delays.
Importance of the Department in Karnataka
- Karnataka depends heavily on agriculture, making irrigation essential.
- Many districts face regular water shortages and need proper water distribution systems.
- The department ensures that farmers receive a timely and adequate water supply.
- Drinking water systems supported by the department benefit millions of residents.
- Efficient water management supports economic growth, food security, and sustainable farming.
Challenges Faced by the Department
| Challenge | Impact |
|---|---|
| Irregular rainfall | Causes issues in water storage and distribution across the state. |
| Land acquisition delays | Slows down the start and progress of new irrigation projects. |
| Forest clearance hurdles | Projects in forest areas take longer due to environmental clearances. |
| Water misuse and wastage | Leads to reduced water availability for needy areas. |
| Limited financial resources | Delays in project execution and completion. |
Future Implications
The Water Resources Department of Karnataka is one of the most active and vital bodies in the state government. It not only creates irrigation infrastructure but also ensures proper water management in drought-prone and agriculturally important regions. Through multiple organizations like KBJNL, KNNL, CNNL, and VJNL, the department has shown a dedicated effort to improve water access and agricultural sustainability. With strong policies, better planning, and efficient resource use, the department continues to contribute to the development and prosperity of Karnataka.
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