Minister Ajay Singh announced that a new digital dashboard will soon track groundwater recharge and water conservation projects across all 224 assembly constituencies.

  • A dedicated digital dashboard is being developed for all 224 assembly constituencies.
  • The state is adopting the successful 'Shirpur Model' from Maharashtra for groundwater recharge.
  • The Minor Irrigation Department has been allocated ₹3,333 crore in the 2026-27 budget.

In a proactive move to combat falling water tables, the State government is set to launch a comprehensive digital dashboard to monitor groundwater recharge and water conservation initiatives. Dr. Ajay Dharam Singh, Minister for Minor Irrigation, Science and Technology, announced this development during a press conference held at the Kalyana Karnataka Region Development Board (KKRDB) office in Kalaburagi.

The proposed dashboard is designed to provide granular, constituency-wise details of all ongoing and planned projects aimed at improving groundwater levels. To ensure that the interventions are effective and locally relevant, Dr. Singh emphasized that project finalization will involve close consultation with local legislators, catering to the specific hydrological requirements of each area.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that real-time monitoring is crucial in preventing the mismanagement of water resources. By implementing a digital tracking system, the government can ensure that funds are utilized efficiently and that projects are completed within stipulated timelines. This data-driven approach is vital for mitigating the risks of drought, which the state is currently facing.

Integrating digital monitoring with proven hydrological models like Shirpur could redefine the state's water security landscape.

The government's strategy revolves around replicating the successful Shirpur model of Maharashtra. This multifaceted approach includes filling existing tanks, implementing lift irrigation, constructing bridge-cum-barrages, and creating a network of check dams and 'gokattas' to maximize rainwater harvesting and groundwater infiltration.

Budgetary Allocations and Progress

The financial commitment toward water management is substantial. For the 2026-27 fiscal year, the Minor Irrigation Department has been allocated ₹3,333 crore. Out of the 3,810 tanks under the department's jurisdiction, the government has already initiated projects to fill 925 tanks to restore their capacity.

Furthermore, the state has made significant strides in farmer support. During the 2024-25 and 2025-26 periods, irrigation facilities were extended to 9,829 farmers under the SCP and 6,165 farmers under the TSP through the provision of borewells and electricity connections. The state has also successfully constructed 687 barrages, check dams, and vented dams, creating an irrigation potential across 40,316 hectares.

Did You Know?: The Shirpur model is widely recognized for its ability to rejuvenate dried-up water bodies through a systematic series of small-scale engineering interventions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How will the new dashboard benefit local constituencies?
The dashboard will provide specific, constituency-wise details of water projects, allowing for better transparency and localized planning.

2. What measures are being taken to prevent drought?
The state is implementing groundwater recharge programs based on the Shirpur model and conducting awareness campaigns through the Directorate of Groundwater.