The Union Cabinet today gave its approval
to the following proposals :
i)
Extend Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP)
coverage to all approved major and
medium irrigation projects in (a) drought-prone areas, (b) tribal areas, (c)
States with lower irrigation potential as compared to National average and (d)
districts identified under PM’s package for agrarian distress would be provided
support under AIBP in relaxation to 1:1 criteria. For other projects, 1:1 criteria i.e., taking up of another
project in the State after completion of one ongoing project will remain
applicable.
ii)
The sanctioned grants to be released in two installments,
the first based on projected outlay and the second after confirmation of expenditure. The grant component amounting to 90% of the
total grant sanctioned will be released
immediately and the balance 10% of the grant when 70% of the agreed expenditure
is incurred.
iii)
Removing distinction of Fast Track Projects, Reforming and
Non-Reforming States and Release of grant of 25% of Project Cost for all
irrigation projects in Non-Special Category States and 90% for Special Category
States.
iv)
The stipulation of 100 hectare in respect of surface water
minor irrigation schemes predominantly benefiting backward regions be brought
down to 50 hectare. The stipulation
of 10% beneficiary contributing in cost for post construction maintenance
for Surface Water Minor Irrigation Schemes benefiting backward regions in
non-Special Category States is also to be done away with.
It will help to complete ongoing approved projects
of any Plan which the State Governments undertake to complete within 4 years.
It will help to achieve the targets as envisaged under Bharat Nirman Programme.
The adoption of such system will enable a more efficient and transparent support
to the States. It will also help the States to locate projects in backward
regions, which are already water stressed to irrigate 100 hectare area.
Background
The
Accelerated Irrigation Benefits programme (AIBP) extends financial assistance
to the States for completion of identified ongoing irrigation projects. As per the present pattern of assistance
under the AIBP, the Centre is providing only the grant component of the Central
Assistance and States are arranging the loan component. The AIBP has to now
meet the demands of the Bharat Nirman programme under which a major thrust on
irrigation is included.
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YSR/DS/LV
(Release ID :22061)