River basin management scheme extended for 2026–31 with INR 2,183 crore outlay

The Centre has proposed extending the river basin management RBM scheme through the 16th Finance Commission period. The Ministry of Jal Shakti said the plan runs from 2026-27 to 2030-31. It carries a fully funded outlay of Rs 2,183 crore. The scheme targets basin-level water planning and development across key regions.

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The ministry said the earlier phase ran from 2021-22 to 2025-26. That period had a budget allocation of Rs 1,276 crore. The higher proposed outlay signals a stronger push for integrated water resource planning. The work aims to support irrigation, hydropower generation and flood management, while promoting sustainable water use.

River basin management RBM scheme focus areas

The scheme prioritises strategically important and water-rich regions that remain underdeveloped. It mainly targets river basins in the north eastern region. It also covers the Indus basin in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Major systems include the Brahmaputra, Barak and Teesta, according to the ministry.

The ministry said these basins were selected due to national water security needs. The areas also matter for cross-border water management. Flood control and ecological stability are other reasons for the focus. The scheme aims to tackle challenges tied to planning and development at the basin scale.

River basin management RBM scheme implementing agencies

The scheme is being implemented through the Brahmaputra Board, Central Water Commission and National Water Development Agency. The ministry said it supports integrated planning, investigation and development of water resources. The work covers both surface water and groundwater systems. It also aims to improve coordination across basin-wide projects.

The ministry said some states face capacity gaps that need central support. These include Jammu- Kashmir, Sikkim, Mizoram, Manipur and Nagaland. The scheme supports project planning and development in these areas. It also assists work in difficult terrain where local resources can be limited.

River basin management RBM scheme surveys and project reports

Under the scheme, surveys and investigations are carried out for multipurpose projects. Detailed project reports are prepared, especially in the north east and Jammu & Kashmir. The ministry said completed reports are expected to expand irrigation capacity. They may also raise hydropower generation and strengthen flood control.

The Brahmaputra Board component includes basin master plans and flood management work. It also covers anti-erosion measures and drainage development in the north eastern region. The ministry said vulnerable areas such as Majuli island are included for protection. These steps aim to reduce damage during high flows.

The Central Water Commission undertakes survey and investigation work across key basins. These include the Brahmaputra, Barak, Teesta and Indus basins. The National Water Development Agency conducts studies for the interlinking of rivers programme. This includes pre-feasibility, feasibility and detailed project reports.

The statement said modern tools are being used to improve planning accuracy. These include geographic information systems, remote sensing, LiDAR and drone-based surveys. The scheme also includes community-based interventions in hilly and tribal areas. These cover springshed management and sharing improved water management practices.

The ministry said continuing the scheme will strengthen infrastructure readiness in targeted basins. It is expected to support sustainable and coordinated management across river systems. The proposed 2026-27 to 2030-31 phase retains focus on the north east and the Indus region. It also continues work through the three implementing agencies.

With inputs from PTI