Minister Shrestha Emphasizes Timely Completion of Sikta Irrigation Project

Minister for Energy, Water Resources, and Irrigation, Biraj Bhakta Shrestha, has stated that all stakeholders must unite to complete the national pride project, the Sikta Irrigation Project, within the stipulated timeframe. He expressed confidence that the successful implementation of the project will bring long-term positive changes to the agricultural production, food security, and rural economy of Banke district.

During an interaction with staff and beneficiary farmers following an on-site inspection of the project, Minister Shrestha clarified that the government is committed to ensuring the necessary budget for the project and suggested accelerating the construction work. He stated that he would take the necessary initiatives to resolve the complexities in laws and administrative procedures to complete this national pride project on time. He added that the processes related to multi-year contracts and agreements would be made simpler and more effective.

Expressing concern over the gradual shrinking of the irrigated area due to encroachment, pollution, and uncontrolled urbanization in the canal zone, Minister Shrestha emphasized that canal conservation must be prioritized. He committed that the government would not only deliver water to the farmers' fields by building irrigation infrastructure but would also coordinate and facilitate the marketing of produced agricultural goods, easy availability of quality seeds and fertilizers, and the development of the agricultural value chain.

He noted that the Sikta Irrigation Project would not be limited to infrastructure development alone but would serve as a long-term foundation for agricultural modernization, increasing production, strengthening food security, and boosting farmers' income in Banke.