Relevant to UPSC Mains GS-I (Geography) and GS-II (Polity) as it covers interstate water disputes, river management, and federal cooperation on resource sharing - key topics in Indian governance.
UPSC Relevance
This topic falls under UPSC GS Paper II (Polity and Governance - inter-state water disputes) and GS Paper III (Infrastructure - multipurpose river valley projects). It is also relevant for GS Paper I (Geography - water resources).
What You Need to Know
The Kishau Multipurpose Project is a major dam and water-sharing agreement signed by six states—Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi—on the Tons River, a tributary of the Yamuna. It will generate 1,000 MW of electricity and irrigate 1.19 lakh hectares, with the Centre bearing 90% of the cost.
Why It Matters for UPSC
It exemplifies cooperative federalism in resolving inter-state water disputes, crucial for India's water security and energy needs. The project aims to boost irrigation, power generation, and flood control, contributing to regional development and reducing conflicts.
Background
Inter-state water disputes in India are governed by the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, which provides for tribunals. The Kishau project is part of the Sutlej-Beas-Ravi river system and follows other agreements like the Rajiv Gandhi Canal. It addresses long-standing disputes over water sharing among the six states.
Current Relevance
Signed in 2025, the project is expected to be completed by 2030, marking the 10th water dispute resolution under the current government. It highlights the Centre's role in mediating and funding major infrastructure, with implications for federal relations and resource management.
Key Points for Revision
- •Kishau Multipurpose Project is the 10th inter-state water dispute resolved, signed by six states on the Tons River in Himachal Pradesh.
- •The project will generate 1,000 MW of electricity and irrigate 1.19 lakh hectares across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
- •The Central Government will bear 90% of the project cost, promoting cooperative federalism.
- •Expected completion by 2030, it is one of three dams planned on the Sutlej river system.
- •The agreement aims to resolve long-standing water disputes among Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Kishau Multipurpose Project:
1. It is built on the Tons River, a tributary of the Ganga.
2. The project will generate 1,000 MW of electricity.
3. The Central Government will bear 90% of the project cost.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
The Kishau project is on the Tons River, a tributary of the Yamuna. It will generate 1,000 MW and the Centre bears 90% of the cost, making statements 2 and 3 correct.
Q2. Which of the following states are signatories to the Kishau Multipurpose Project agreement?
1. Himachal Pradesh
2. Uttarakhand
3. Punjab
4. Haryana
5. Rajasthan
6. Delhi
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
(a) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
(b) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6
(d) 1, 2 and 3 only
The Kishau agreement was signed by Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Delhi, making option (c) correct.
Q3. The Kishau Multipurpose Project is expected to be completed by which year?
(a) 2025
(b) 2028
(c) 2030
(d) 2035
According to the agreement, the project is expected to be completed in 2030.
Mains Practice Questions
Discuss the significance of the Kishau Multipurpose Project in resolving inter-state water disputes and promoting cooperative federalism in India. (250 words)
DiscussAnalyse the role of the Central Government in resolving inter-state water disputes, with reference to the Kishau Multipurpose Project. (150 words)
Analyse