Approximately 75 - 80% of the population is dependent on agriculture sector for their livelihood. Existing irrigation coverage as per 3rd M.I. Census is merely 22% of the available arable land (as against the national coverage of over 40%). Irrigation is, therefore, the critical factor for increasing agricultural production & productivity. By the end of March' 2007, 6.8297 lakh ha. irrigation potential has been created after completion of 1 major, 98 medium irrigation projects and a number of minor irrigation schemes.