Dikhyaa Mohanty 
The State Cabinet has approved the “Intra-State River Linking Scheme in Odisha” with an estimated outlay of Rs. 1790.00 crore, to be executed over a period of five years from FY 2025-26 to 2029-30. The scheme aims to optimise intra-state water distribution by connecting water-surplus river basins with water-deficient regions.
The project will improve drought resilience, create additional water storage, mitigate flood risks, and boost agricultural productivity. It comprises six major projects, including the Kalra Link Project, Vansadhara-Rushikulya Intra-link Project, and others.
It is anticipated that the plan would solve the water-related issues brought on by climate change, which has made monsoon rains unpredictable. The project will contribute to a more equal distribution of water resources, which will benefit people and agriculture throughout the state by connecting river basins with surplus water with those that lack it.
