Andhra Pradesh revives freshwater ponds under PMKSY scheme

The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a programme to rejuvenate existing freshwater ponds as part of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY). The initiative focuses on desilting, repairing embankments and installing water‑saving structures to increase the ponds' storage capacity. State officials say the revived ponds will supplement irrigation during dry periods and reduce dependence on groundwater. The scheme also aims to create ancillary benefits such as improved groundwater recharge and enhanced biodiversity around the water bodies. Farmers in the affected districts are being encouraged to adopt water‑efficient practices to make the most of the restored ponds.