The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, inspected the status and phased‑implementation plan of the Ujh Multipurpose Project (MPP) in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir.
Key Developments
- Implementation will start while remaining land acquisition continues, avoiding delays.
- The project is being executed by WAPCOS Ltd., which will also finalise site‑specific requirements.
- Minister emphasized innovative, quality‑focused solutions and assured full government support.
Important Facts
The MPP, situated on the Ujh River, will generate 186‑212 MW of electricity. It will irrigate nearly 90,000 hectares across Kathua and Samba districts of J&K and Pathankot and Gurdaspur districts of Punjab, and supply drinking water to Kathua district. The scheme also has an industrial‑water component.
Revival of the Shahpurkandi project and the MPP reflects the Modi government’s push to utilise India’s share of the Indus Waters Treaty waters, which have been under‑utilised.
Exam Relevance
Understanding the MPP helps aspirants link several GS topics: water‑resource management (GS3), inter‑state and international water disputes (GS2), border security implications (GS2 & GS4), and the role of central ministries like Ministry of Jal Shakti. The project also illustrates how large‑scale infrastructure is coordinated across ministries, a key point for Polity and Governance.
Way Forward
Stakeholders must maintain tight coordination, monitor land‑acquisition progress, and adopt fast‑track construction techniques. Continuous oversight by the Ministry of Science & Technology and the Ministry of Home Affairs will ensure that the project meets its irrigation, power, and security objectives within the stipulated timeline.