Agartala, December 19, 2025: Tripura’s groundwater reserves are currently in a safe and stable condition, and the state government is taking proactive steps to ensure their long-term sustainability, Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Ratan Lal Nath said on Thursday.

Speaking after chairing a key executive committee meeting on the Watershed Development Project under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) at Pragya Bhavan, Nath emphasized the government’s commitment to enhancing rainwater harvesting infrastructure across the state.

“States that rely heavily on rainwater must plan for the future. That’s why we’ve launched this initiative—to conserve rainwater through watershed development, check dams, ponds, and afforestation,” the minister said. “We are already on the path to success, and Phase 3.0 of the project will commence after March.”

Highlighting the growing water crisis in states like Haryana, Punjab, and Rajasthan—where overdependence on groundwater has led to depletion—Nath contrasted Tripura’s relatively low groundwater usage. “Tripura uses only 9.7% of its groundwater resources, compared to 15% in Assam and 52% in West Bengal. But we must think of future generations,” he noted.

The minister urged officials to utilize the remaining project funds by January 15 to ensure eligibility for increased funding in the next phase. “Through this project, we aim not only to conserve more rainwater but also to empower people towards self-reliance,” he added.

In a forward-looking move, the state is also planning to construct reservoirs along national highways. These will be complemented by road connectivity, children’s parks, open gyms, and tree plantations to enhance both utility and aesthetics.

The meeting was attended by chairpersons from all eight districts and senior officials from the agriculture and allied departments.