Shodh Prabha: A Multidisciplinary Journal

Socio-Economic Impacts of River Interlinking Projects in India

The River Interlinking Projects in India are one of the largest water management projects in the world, which aims at transferring the water in the excess river basins into the water-depleted areas. These are the main aims that involve expansion of irrigation, flood control, hydropower generation and development of the region. Although such projects are allegedly accompanied by serious economic and agricultural advantages, they are accompanied by serious socio-economic and environmental concerns. Massive displacement of populations, loss of livelihoods, deforestation, and inundation of ecologically vulnerable areas have become a major issue. Referring to case studies, including the Ken -Betwa and Par-Tapi-Narmada projects linkages, this document examines the intricate connection between development objectives and social justice. In the study, it is pointed out that the success of river interlinking in India will be not just determined by the engineering and financial feasibility of the project but also by the inclusion planning, the sharing of benefit in an equitable manner and sustainable environmental management. A moderate stance between technological progress, social protection and environmental conservation will be necessary to make sure that the said mega-projects bring about a positive influence on the socio-economic development of India over the long run.