Guwahati, 16 June (HS): Assam Minister for Irrigation, Agriculture and Parliamentary Affairs Pijush Hazarika on Tuesday held separate meetings with Union Jal Shakti Minister CR Patil and Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan in New Delhi to discuss strengthening irrigation infrastructure and boosting agricultural growth in the state.

During his meeting with Patil, Hazarika highlighted Assam’s vast irrigation potential arising from the Brahmaputra River and its extensive network of tributaries. He informed the Union Minister that while the state has an irrigation potential of nearly 2.7 million hectares of agricultural land, only about 700,000 hectares are currently covered under irrigation schemes. The discussions focused on expanding irrigation coverage and enhancing infrastructure in line with the Centre’s vision of “Har Khet Ko Pani”.

Patil appreciated Assam’s immense potential in the irrigation sector and assured full support from the Government of India for the development of irrigation facilities across the state.

Later, Hazarika met Chouhan and briefed him on the overall status of Assam’s agriculture sector, ongoing initiatives and future prospects. The Union Minister, drawing on his extensive experience in the field, offered guidance on strengthening agricultural development and improving farmers’ welfare.

Chouhan also assured complete cooperation from the Union Agriculture Ministry to support Assam’s efforts in modernising agriculture and enhancing productivity. The meetings are expected to further strengthen coordination between the Centre and the state in accelerating the growth of Assam’s irrigation and agriculture sectors.-----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash