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Why is Indira Gandhi Canal in News?
Indira Gandhi Canal has been in the news throughout 2025 due to major new water management decisions in Rajasthan. The state government recently announced a plan to convert four natural depressions along the canal into reservoirs, aiming to conserve rainwater and surplus canal water for irrigation and drinking purposes in adjoining desert regions.
Additionally, after the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, India has accelerated work on a new 113-km link canal to transfer surplus water from Jammu & Kashmir and Punjab directly into the Indira Gandhi Canal, which will further boost supplies for Rajasthan’s drought-prone areas.
About Indira Gandhi Canal?
The Indira Gandhi Canal, formerly known as the Rajasthan Canal, is the largest irrigation canal in India.
- It originates from the Harike Barrage at the confluence of the Sutlej and Beas Rivers in Punjab.
- The total length is around 649 km.
- It primarily provides water to the north-western districts of Rajasthan like Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer, Jodhpur, Churu, and Hanumangarh.
Historical Background
- The project was conceptualized in 1948 as part of the Rajasthan Canal Project.
- Construction began in 1952 and the first phase was completed in 1987.
- In 1984, it was renamed after Prime Minister Indira Gandhi due to her vision for desert development.
How Does the Canal Work?
The canal draws water from the Satluj-Beas River system through the Harike Barrage and channels it into the Thar Desert region of Rajasthan.
- Phase I: Covered areas up to Jaisalmer and Barmer with unlined canals.
- Phase II: Used concrete lining to reduce seepage and expand irrigation facilities.
Geographical and Agricultural Importance
- The canal irrigates about 2 million hectares of land.
- It has helped in growing crops like wheat, cotton, mustard, groundnut, and pulses in previously barren areas.
- Sand dunes of the Thar have been stabilized using canal water, reducing desertification.
- Several wildlife sanctuaries such as Desert National Park benefit from the availability of water.
Recent Developments
- The Government of Rajasthan has planned digital monitoring systems to track water flow.
- Micro-irrigation projects are being linked with canal water to reduce wastage.
- Discussions are ongoing to extend water supply to more desert villages affected by climate change.
Quick Facts: Indira Gandhi Canal
| Feature | Details |
| Former Name | Rajasthan Canal |
| Renamed As | Indira Gandhi Canal (1984) |
| Length | ~649 km (main canal) |
| Source | Harike Barrage at the confluence of Sutlej and Beas Rivers (Punjab) |
| States Covered | Punjab (small section), Rajasthan (major portion) |
| Major Beneficiary Districts | Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Barmer, Jodhpur, Churu, Hanumangarh, Ganganagar |
| Construction Started | 1952 |
| Phase I Completed | 1987 (unlined canals) |
| Phase II Completed | Ongoing with lined canals for reduced seepage |
| Irrigation Coverage | ~2 million hectares of arid land |
| Main Crops Supported | Wheat, cotton, mustard, groundnut, pulses |
| Key Role | Desert irrigation, dune stabilization, drinking water supply |
| Geographical Significance | Lifeline of the Thar Desert, helps in reducing desertification |
FAQs on Indira Gandhi Canal
Q1. Why is Indira Gandhi Canal important for Rajasthan?
It is the lifeline of the Thar Desert, turning arid regions into fertile agricultural land and supplying drinking water.
Q2. Which rivers feed the Indira Gandhi Canal?
The canal draws water from the Sutlej and Beas rivers via the Harike Barrage.
Q3. How does the canal help in controlling desertification?
By providing continuous water, it helps in stabilizing sand dunes and supporting vegetation, reducing desert expansion.
Q4. What is the length of the Indira Gandhi Canal?
The canal runs for about 649 km, making it the largest irrigation canal in India.
