Gandhinagar: To strengthen agriculture and improve the livelihoods of farmers in Gujarat’s tribal regions, the Gujarat government has implemented extensive irrigation projects using lift pipeline technology. Over the past seven years, it has invested ₹5,115 crore to bring irrigation to over 1,39,510 acres of farmland in tribal areas, an official note said.

As per the official statement, in the last three years (2023–2025), the state government has spent over ₹2,212 crore on lift pipeline projects. During the previous four years (2019–2022), the government spent over ₹2,903 crore to expand irrigation facilities across tribal regions.

Discussing the steady expansion of irrigation coverage, Minister for Water Resources and Water Supply Ishwarsinh Patel said, “Farmers’ prosperity and agricultural growth remain one of our top priorities. Prime Minister Narendra Modi introduced the Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat. Under this initiative, we have successfully provided year-round irrigation to farmers in 708 villages across six tribal districts using lift pipeline technology.

“Now, under Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana 2.0, we are implementing several major projects to achieve complete irrigation coverage across the remaining tribal regions of the state. An investment of ₹3,779 crore is being made to extend irrigation facilities to over 1,44,164 acres of farmland in these areas. These projects are advancing rapidly and will be completed within the planned timeframe.”

Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana: A Boon for Tribal Farmers

The lift pipeline technology implemented under the Gujarat government’s Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana has become a major benefit for tribal farmers. Before this initiative, irrigation facilities in these regions were limited, and farmers faced difficult conditions. Today, they enjoy year-round irrigation, higher incomes, and improved living standards.

What is Lift Pipeline Technology and How Does it Help Farmers?

Lift pipeline technology is used in regions where the water source lies below the level of the fields. The system is particularly effective in hilly areas, arid zones, and regions facing water scarcity. This modern irrigation method pumps water through pipelines and lifts it to fields situated at higher elevations. By delivering water directly to the fields, the system minimizes water loss and ensures a steady and adequate supply. Compared to traditional irrigation methods, it requires less manual effort and helps farmers achieve better crop yields.