Minor Irrigation Schemes are eminently suitable for the State due to the undulating topography of Goa, which does not have vast continuous stretches of land to permit flow irrigation. The systematic program of development of minor irrigation tanks, bandharas, canals, lift irrigation has been vigorously undertaken since the State came under intensive drive in expanding irrigation facilities, with the setting up of a separate Department in 1980. Till today, an irrigation potential of 21622 has been created under the minor irrigation sector as against 7860 Ha. at the time of liberation.
The irrigation potential under minor irrigation is both by surface water and by ground water. The Water Resources Department is implementing various schemes such as irrigation wells, tanks, lift irrigation schemes, bandharas, to bring maximum area under minor irrigation. The Department is also encouraging the farmers for construction of open wells/bore wells under the subsidy scheme.
The M.I. Tanks constructed by the Water Resources Department are not only facilitating the irrigation in hinterland, but also augmenting rural water supply. Rise in ground water table is observed in the vicinity of such schemes.
The M.I. Tank at Amthane in Bardez Taluka supplying water for irrigation crop as well as for raw water supply at Asnora Plant in Bardez Taluka.
