Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra Join Hands for Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project

In a landmark move aimed at securing water resources and promoting inter-State cooperation, Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra signed an MoU on May 10, 2025, to jointly implement the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project. The agreement seeks to mitigate water scarcity and improve irrigation across select districts of both States, especially in Vidarbha, North Maharashtra, and Southern Madhya Pradesh.

Why in News?

The Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project gained national attention after Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Bhopal on May 10, 2025. The project marks a major step forward in water-sharing cooperation between States and aims to receive national project status and 90% Central funding.

Key Highlights of the Tapti Basin Mega Recharge Project

• States Involved: Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra.
• MoU Signed On: May 10, 2025.
• Venue: Bhopal, during the Inter-State Control Board meeting.
• Estimated Cost: ₹19,244 crore (based on 2022–23 estimates).
• Expected Central Funding: 90%.
• Water Utilisation: Total – 31.13 TMC
• Madhya Pradesh: 11.76 TMC
• Maharashtra: 19.36 TMC

Project Objectives and Features

• Purpose: To address water scarcity, ensure drinking water supply and boost irrigation.

Coverage

• Madhya Pradesh districts: Burhanpur, Khandwa (total 1,23,082 hectares).
• Maharashtra districts: Jalgaon, Akola, Buldhana, Amravati (total 2,34,706 hectares).
• Land Use: 3,362 hectares in MP with no displacement or rehabilitation required.
• Irrigation Impact: Permanent irrigation for over 3.5 lakh hectares.
• Recharge Scheme Status: Touted as the world’s largest recharge project.
• Origin of Tapti River: Betul district, Madhya Pradesh.
• Historical Background: Originally proposed in the 1990s during Mr. Fadnavis’ tenure as Mayor of Nagpur.
• Control Board Meeting: First held after a 25-year gap, with the last meeting in 2000.
• Next Meeting: Scheduled for October 2025.

Significance

• Strengthens inter-State cooperation.
• Provides a long-term solution to water needs in drought-prone areas.
• Contributes to sustainable agriculture and climate resilience.
• Reduces dependency on groundwater and improves regional water balance.