1,793-crore development push for Mandya; irrigation gets priority

During a press conference in Bengaluru, Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced a comprehensive development push for Mandya district that totals ₹1,793 crore. The package is designed to address long‑standing water scarcity and to upgrade medical services for the largely agrarian population. The announcement comes as the state seeks to balance rapid urban growth with the needs of rural communities, many of whom rely on seasonal rivers and small lakes for irrigation.

A major component of the plan is the allocation of ₹1,030 crore for the construction and renovation of canals, as well as the desiltation and rejuvenation of several lakes. These water‑related projects aim to improve the reliability of irrigation for sugarcane, paddy and other crops that dominate Mandya's agricultural output. Officials expect that better water management will increase farm yields, reduce dependence on monsoon rains, and provide a buffer against drought conditions that have affected the region in recent years.

In addition to water infrastructure, the state will build a 100‑bed Jayadeva hospital equipped with modern diagnostic equipment and emergency services. The hospital is intended to serve not only Mandya town but also surrounding villages that currently travel long distances for specialized care. Health experts say that improved medical facilities will help lower maternal and infant mortality rates and provide a safety net for workers in the agricultural sector. The combined focus on irrigation and health reflects the government's broader strategy to boost rural prosperity and reduce migration to urban centers.