14 lakh groundwater irrigation sources identified in Karnataka

Karnataka's seventh Minor Irrigation Census and second Water Bodies Census has identified nearly 14.18 lakh wells and 39,000 lakes and water bodies used for agricultural purposes across the state. These wells, primarily used for irrigation, are excluded from urban drinking water borewells. The 38,960 water bodies cover an area of up to 2,000 hectares.

The data, collected using 2023-24 as the reference year, was funded by the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. The Census covered 30,671 villages, 300 urban local bodies, and 7,128 urban wards. More comprehensive findings will be released soon. The Minister of Minor Irrigation and Science and Technology, Ajay Singh, emphasized the importance of using this data for water security planning, prioritizing water conservation, groundwater recharge, and strengthening minor irrigation infrastructure.