The World Bank has approved technical and financial assistance of Rs 5,700 crore for the ‘Jal Sanrakshit Haryana Project’, aimed at making Haryana self-reliant in the water sector.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said the funds will be released in phases between 2026 and 2032 and will be used mainly for large-scale canal restoration works. Out of 1,570 canals in the state, 892 have already been restored over the last 20 years,which covers restoration of 115 canals with Rs 2,325 crore from World Bank assistance, 284 canals funded by Rs 2,230 crore from the state budget, and 279 canals supported by Rs 2,880 crore through NABARD. The remaining 678 canals are planned to be completed within the next five years.

Restoration will be supported through a mix of World Bank funding, state budget allocations, and NABARD assistance. The project also covers minor canals, with nearly 1,961 minor canals proposed for restoration in the coming years. Additionally, micro-irrigation systems will be introduced across about 70,000 acres with World Bank support. The initiative also includes drainage solutions for waterlogged areas and promotes sustainable agriculture through crop diversification and water-saving farming practices across the state.