Odisha Strengthens Lift Irrigation Network to Boost Agricultural Growth and Water Security

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government is advancing its Lift Irrigation (LI) initiatives to ensure water security, enhance agricultural productivity and provide equitable access to irrigation, especially in upland and drought-prone areas where conventional canal irrigation is not feasible. The efforts align with the State’s commitment to the Viksit Bharat vision, aiming to provide assured, year-round irrigation that stabilizes farm incomes and supports socio-economic growth in rural communities.

The progress of Lift Irrigation projects was reviewed during the 210th Board Meeting of the Odisha Lift Irrigation Corporation (OLIC), held on 6 November 2025 in Bhubaneswar under the chairpersonship of Anu Garg, IAS.

During the financial year 2024–25, OLIC achieved significant progress by creating an irrigation potential of 16.51 lakh hectares, benefiting over 15 lakh farmer families across the State. This expansion has contributed to improved cropping intensity and better agricultural stability.

One of the key developments in this period has been the growing adoption of solar-powered deep bore wells. A total of 3,328 installations have already been completed, providing irrigation to nearly 0.17 lakh hectares of farmland. The State has now set a target of installing 9,000 additional solar-powered deep bore wells by December 2025, which will extend the benefits to approximately 35,000 farmers. This transition to renewable-energy-driven irrigation reflects a strong commitment to sustainability and reduced dependence on conventional energy sources.

Farmers in several districts, including Mayurbhanj, are increasingly moving toward high-value and diversified agricultural practices. In Shyamakhunta Block of Mayurbhanj district, farmers under the Tarajodi-III Community Lift Irrigation Project cultivated strawberries over 10 hectares, earning around ₹40 lakh in a single season. Similar diversification into crops like sunflowers and mushrooms has contributed to improved incomes and stronger rural livelihoods.

A major innovation introduced by OLIC during the period is the successful pilot of sensor-based IoT devices integrated with a mobile application in Lift Irrigation projects. This technology enables real-time monitoring and efficient management of water delivery, enhancing transparency and operational efficiency. The initiative marks a significant step toward smart irrigation practices in the State.

By integrating modern technology with sustainable irrigation infrastructure, Odisha is moving toward a more resilient and forward-looking agricultural framework. The State Government’s continued focus remains on empowering farmers, ensuring long-term water security, and strengthening the economic foundation of rural Odisha.