In a significant step towards bolstering sustainable water management in Odisha, the 7th Project Governing Committee meeting of the JICA-assisted Rengali Irrigation Project (Phase II) convened today at the Department of Water Resources’ conference hall.
Chaired by Principal Secretary Shubha Sarma, the gathering brought together key stakeholders to review progress and chart the path forward for this vital infrastructure initiative.
The meeting placed a strong emphasis on enhancing the capabilities of Pani Panchayats—local water user associations—to optimise water distribution across the project’s expansive 39,416-hectare command area. Participants delved into strategies for documenting innovative best practices that have driven the project’s success so far, while also evaluating its broader socio-economic benefits, including improved agricultural productivity and rural livelihoods.
A major agenda item was addressing persistent land acquisition challenges that have occasionally hindered fieldwork. Officials are committed to expediting resolutions to these issues, underscoring the urgency of completing all ongoing construction activities within the established timelines. This focus aims to ensure the project delivers on its promise of transforming irrigation in the region, supported by funding and technical expertise from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
Among the notable attendees were Engineer-in-Chief Shri Sagar Mohanty and JICA Chief Engineer Shri Bigyan Prasad Sahoo, alongside other senior departmental officials. Their collaborative discussions highlighted the project’s role in fostering resilient farming communities amid growing climate uncertainties.
As Odisha continues to prioritise water resource development, this meeting reaffirms the state’s dedication to efficient, inclusive, and timely project execution, paving the way for enhanced food security and economic growth in the Rengali area.
