New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked states to address inter-state river water-sharing disputes through dialogue and cooperation, pointing to the Ken–Betwa project between Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh as a workable example.
Chairing the 51st PRAGATI meeting to review Centre–state infrastructure initiatives, the Prime Minister assessed seven major projects planned across nine states, with an estimated outlay of about Rs 30,000 crore. The review covered projects in the railways, power and road sectors.
During the meeting, Modi said solutions to river water disputes require collaboration between states, timely approvals, technology-enabled monitoring and strong operational execution. He said the Ken–Betwa river-linking initiative demonstrates how coordinated action can help move projects forward.
He also urged other states to work together on river-linking, water storage, groundwater recharge and efficient irrigation practices to ensure long-term water security.
Highlighting the impact of delays, the Prime Minister said hold-ups in welfare-oriented projects increase costs and postpone essential services for people. He called on central ministries and state governments to clear pending files quickly and cooperate to complete key projects.
