JAMMU, Jun 10: Renowned human rights activist Om Parkash Khajuria has strongly urged the Government of Jammu and Kashmir to ensure the restoration of adequate Chenab River water supply through the historic Ranbir Canal irrigation network to the Agricultural fields of R.S. Pura, asserting that such a step is essential to revive the world-famous aroma, taste and nutritional value of the region’s celebrated Basmati rice.
Addressing the media, Khajuria expressed serious concern over the gradual decline in the quality of R.S. Pura Basmati, which once enjoyed national and international recognition for its unique fragrance, superior grain quality and exceptional taste. He said the distinctive characteristics of R.S. Pura Basmati were closely linked to irrigation through the Ranbir Canal system, which carried water from the Chenab River originating from the Himalayan region.
According to Khajuria, the Chenab water flowing through the canal network historically brought with it valuable minerals, organic nutrients and herbal elements from the mountainous terrain, naturally enriching the soil and contributing significantly to the aroma and nutritional value of Basmati rice. He stated that agricultural experts and scientific studies have long recognized the crucial role played by mineral-rich irrigation water in maintaining soil fertility and enhancing crop quality.
Khajuria lamented that the once-efficient Ranbir Canal system, regarded as one of the finest irrigation networks in Northern India, has suffered extensive damage over the years due to unchecked semi-urbanisation, administrative neglect and poor maintenance. He pointed out that several traditional irrigation channels have either been diverted, encroached upon or rendered non-functional, severely affecting the flow of water to vast agricultural areas of R.S. Pura and adjoining regions.
Highlighting another major concern, the activist questioned the effectiveness of annual de-silting operations undertaken by the Irrigation Department. He alleged that despite the expenditure of crores of rupees every year, desilting works often remain incomplete and ineffective, resulting in rapid re-silting, reduced carrying capacity of canals and inadequate water supply to farmers. Such shortcomings, he said, are depriving cultivators of the benefits of Chenab water at a time when irrigation demand is at its peak.
Khajuria further observed that during the summer months, particularly when glacier melt substantially increases the flow of water in the Chenab River, there is sufficient water available to meet irrigation requirements. However, due to poor maintenance and inefficient management of canals, a significant portion of this precious resource remains unutilised and eventually goes waste.
As a consequence, farmers are increasingly compelled to depend on groundwater extraction through submersible pumps for paddy cultivation. This growing dependence, he warned, has triggered an alarming decline in the groundwater table across R.S. Pura, posing a serious environmental and agricultural challenge for future generations.
“Earlier, when the Ranbir Canal and associated irrigation channels functioned efficiently, groundwater levels were naturally recharged through canal seepage and widespread irrigation. Today, the reduced inflow of canal water has drastically affected natural groundwater replenishment, leading to a sharp fall in the water table,” Khajuria said.
Describing the issue as one involving agriculture, environment and rural livelihoods, Khajuria appealed to the government to undertake a comprehensive restoration and modernization of the Ranbir Canal network. He called for the removal of encroachments, scientific desilting of canals, strengthening of water distribution channels and effective utilisation of surplus Chenab water for irrigation purposes.
He stressed that restoring regular Chenab water supply to Basmati-growing areas would not only help revive the legendary aroma and quality of R.S. Pura Basmati but would also reduce dependence on groundwater, improve soil health, enhance farmers’ incomes and preserve the region’s rich agricultural heritage.Khajuria urged the administration to treat the matter as a priority and take immediate corrective measures so that the globally acclaimed identity of R.S. Pura Basmati can be safeguarded for future generations while ensuring sustainable water management in the region.