The Gujarat government has initiated the release of irrigation water through the Narmada canal network starting June 11, 2026, to support the ongoing Kharif sowing season. This decision, approved by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, aims to provide essential water resources to farmers during the early stages of crop growth.
Early Water Release Decision
The release of irrigation water comes as more than 1.73 lakh hectares have been brought under Kharif cultivation in Gujarat. The monsoon is anticipated to reach the state after June 15, making this early water release crucial for crop establishment. The decision followed a high-level meeting where the Chief Minister reviewed water stocks and crop requirements with senior officials, including Mukesh Puri, Chairman of Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited.
Crop Sowing and Regional Focus
According to official data, cotton and groundnut are the primary crops sown, covering nearly 93,000 hectares and 55,000 hectares respectively. The Saurashtra region has seen significant sowing activity, with approximately 1.1 lakh hectares already planted across 11 districts. This highlights the region's reliance on timely irrigation support.
Narmada Canal's Role
The Narmada canal network is a vital irrigation source for Gujarat, supplying water to agricultural regions across Saurashtra, Kutch, and north Gujarat. The canal system is particularly important during the early Kharif season when rainfall is not yet widespread. The early release of water is expected to aid farmers in continuing sowing operations and ensuring adequate moisture for crop germination.
Implications for Farmers
The availability of canal water is anticipated to provide critical support for farmers, allowing them to maintain sowing momentum until the monsoon arrives. This move is expected to stabilize early crop growth and potentially improve yield outcomes.
| Crop Type | Area Sown (Hectares) |
|---|---|
| Cotton | 93,000 |
| Groundnut | 55,000 |
The decision to release irrigation water ahead of schedule underscores the government's commitment to supporting agricultural productivity in Gujarat. As the monsoon approaches, the timely intervention is likely to have a positive impact on the Kharif season's success.
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