Under Bihar’s Fourth Agriculture Road Map (2023–2028), the state has adopted a comprehensive approach to enhance agricultural productivity, promote efficient water use, and strengthen rural livelihoods through improved irrigation infrastructure. In this context, the Minor Water Resources Department has been entrusted with the implementation of key irrigation-focused schemes across the state, particularly targeting water-stressed regions.

In southern Bihar, where agriculture is predominantly rain-fed, farmers face persistent challenges such as water scarcity, declining groundwater levels, soil erosion, and high evaporation rates. The annual loss of fertile topsoil further threatens agricultural sustainability. To address these concerns, Bihar is implementing a range of interventions, including the construction and renovation of check dams, ponds, traditional Ahar-Pyne systems, and lift irrigation structures. These initiatives are designed to promote water conservation, facilitate rainwater harvesting, encourage community participation, and build local capacity, thereby improving agricultural resilience and productivity.

To achieve the ambitious targets set under the Fourth Agriculture Road Map, Bihar is actively executing irrigation schemes under major initiatives such as the 'Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali Abhiyan, 'Har Khet Tak Sinchai Ka Pani Programme', and the State Plan. As part of these efforts, the state has planned the implementation of 664 Check Dam/Weir schemes , covering nearly one lakh hectares of agricultural land. In addition, 994 Ahar-Pyne schemes have been proposed, expected to benefit around 30,000 hectares. These interventions, aligned with *Plan Purvodaya*, are focused on enhancing groundwater recharge, ensuring water availability, and supporting sustainable agricultural growth across Bihar.