Introduction
The Karnataka Ganga Kalyana Yojana is a significant initiative launched by the Karnataka state government, aimed at promoting irrigation facilities for small and marginal farmers, especially those belonging to the Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). Under this scheme, farmers are provided with borewell irrigation systems, subsidies, and financial assistance to boost agricultural productivity in water-scarce regions.
This comprehensive guide explores all aspects of the Ganga Kalyana Scheme in Karnataka, including eligibility, benefits, online application process, documents required, objectives, and more.
Objectives of the Ganga Kalyana Yojana
- Enhance Irrigation: The primary aim is to supply permanent irrigation solutions to SC/ST farmers.
- Utilization of Groundwater: To utilize available groundwater sources by drilling borewells or open wells.
- Financial Inclusion: Empower farmers through government-subsidized loans and grants.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Reduce dependency on monsoon and promote sustainable agricultural practices.
- Social Welfare: Support socio-economic upliftment of underprivileged rural farmers.
Key Highlights of the Ganga Kalyana Yojana
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Launched By | Karnataka State Government |
| Department | Karnataka Adijambava Development Corporation / Karnataka Minorities Development Corporation |
| Target Group | SC/ST farmers |
| Benefit Type | Borewell installation, pump sets, electricity connections |
| Financial Aid | ₹2.5 Lakh to ₹3 Lakh (approx.) |
| Mode of Application | Online / Offline |
| Helpline Number | As per respective district development board |
Eligibility Criteria
To benefit from the Karnataka Ganga Kalyana Scheme, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Resident of Karnataka.
- Belong to Scheduled Caste (SC) or Scheduled Tribe (ST) category.
- Small or Marginal Farmer, with landholding between 1 acre to 5 acres.
- Land must be owned or leased by the applicant.
- Land should be agriculture-purpose only.
- Applicant must not have existing irrigation facility.
- Annual income should not exceed ₹3.5 lakh in rural areas and ₹4.5 lakh in urban areas (varies by sub-schemes).
Subsidy and Financial Assistance Provided
Under this scheme, the Karnataka government provides the following:
- Drilling of Borewell or Open Well: One or more wells based on geological feasibility.
- Pump Set Installation: Electric or diesel pump sets.
- Electricity Connection Cost: Full support to get power supply from ESCOMs.
- Pipe Installation: For distribution of water to fields.
- Water Tank Construction: For water storage in arid zones.
- Financial Grant:
- ₹2.5 lakh for individual borewells.
- ₹3 lakh for lift irrigation where river water is used.
- 100% Subsidy for eligible farmers (no repayment required).
Types of Irrigation Systems Under the Scheme
The scheme provides multiple irrigation options based on location and water availability:
- Borewell Irrigation
- Open Well Irrigation
- Lift Irrigation System
- Tank Fill Projects
- Mini-Irrigation Infrastructure
These are chosen based on hydrogeological survey conducted by the Groundwater Department.
Benefits of Ganga Kalyana Yojana
- Irrigation Assurance: Ensures timely and sufficient water supply.
- High Crop Yield: Boosts agricultural output and income.
- Free Borewell Installation: No upfront cost to the farmer.
- 100% Subsidy: No loan repayment for eligible beneficiaries.
- Poverty Alleviation: Supports backward community welfare.
- Reduction in Farmer Suicides: Economic relief via infrastructure support.
Online Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
Eligible farmers can apply online through the official portal of the Karnataka Adijambava or Minorities Development Corporation, depending on their category.
Step 1: Visit Official Portal
- Go to Link In Post Below (For SC community).
- Or Link In Post Below (For minorities).
Step 2: Register as a New User
- Click on “Apply Online”.
- Enter Aadhaar number and complete OTP verification.
Step 3: Fill Application Form
- Personal details
- Caste certificate
- Land details (RTC, survey number)
- Bank account details
Step 4: Upload Documents
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste Certificate
- Land Documents (RTC)
- Ration Card
- Income Certificate
- Bank Passbook copy
- Photo
Step 5: Submit Application
- After filling in all details and uploading documents, submit the application.
- Take a printout for reference.
Offline Application Process
- Visit the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO).
- Collect the Ganga Kalyana Yojana Application Form.
- Fill in all required details.
- Attach photocopies of required documents.
- Submit to Assistant Director (AD) or Tahsildar Office.
- A field verification will be conducted.
- Approval will be granted by the District Selection Committee.
Selection Process
- Applications are reviewed at district level.
- Technical feasibility report by groundwater department.
- Beneficiary shortlisting by committee.
- Installation and borewell drilling are executed via empanelled contractors.
- Final inspection and utility verification before subsidy is released.
Documents Required
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | ID verification |
| Caste Certificate | To prove SC/ST/minority status |
| Income Certificate | To confirm economic eligibility |
| Land Ownership Proof (RTC) | Verifies agricultural land |
| Ration Card | Family ID |
| Bank Passbook | Subsidy disbursal |
| Mobile Number | For updates and alerts |
| Recent Photograph | Identification |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for Ganga Kalyana Yojana?
Only SC/ST farmers of Karnataka with agricultural land and no irrigation facilities are eligible.
2. How much financial aid is provided?
Between ₹2.5 lakh to ₹3 lakh per beneficiary, depending on irrigation method.
3. Is repayment required?
No. It’s a 100% subsidy scheme with no repayment obligation.
4. Can I apply if I already have a borewell?
No, the scheme is only for those without existing irrigation.
5. What if my application is rejected?
You can reapply in the next financial year or file an appeal at the district office.
Latest Updates (2025)
- Geo-tagging of borewell locations for better monitoring.
- Mobile App launched for real-time updates to farmers.
- Faster approvals due to digital documentation.
- Expansion of scheme to OBC and minority categories under a different board.
Conclusion
The Ganga Kalyana Yojana Karnataka 2025 is a game-changing initiative for small farmers in the state. With full subsidy support for borewells, irrigation, and infrastructure, the scheme enables higher productivity, self-reliance, and economic stability for the underprivileged sections of the farming community.
If you are eligible and facing water issues for your crops, do not miss the opportunity to apply for this scheme and transform your agriculture prospects.