Some forces hampering distribution of canal water: Hooda

Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda today claimed there are "some forces" which do not want equitable distribution of canal water leading to a shortage of irrigation water in parts of the state.
The chief minister said that he would ensure due share of Bhakhra canal water to the people of the area, according to a release.
He said that the state had constructed Bhakhra Main Line Hansi-Butana Link Canal for equitable distribution of available water.
Hooda said available water "was not equally shared, resulting in shortage of irrigation water in some parts of the state" and criticised the previous government for the situation.

"There were some forces which do not want the equitable distribution of water, as a result the matter is pending in the court," Hooda said.
The chief minister also said the government is mulling increasing the old age pension, which has been raised to Rs 700 per month.

"The Old Age Allowance, which was merely Rs 200 per month during the tenure of INLD, has been raised to Rs 700 per month. If given an opportunity, it will be further enhanced," Hooda said while addressing a public meeting at Bawani Khera, near Bhiwani today.
He was speaking after inaugurating and laying foundation stones of 27 developmental projects involving an investment of more than Rs 116.38 crore.

Hooda also described the Food Security Bill as a "biggest scheme" for the welfare of the poor, which would ensure foodgrain to about 52 per cent rural and 51 per cent urban population at a very nominal rate.