Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, widely known as the principal architect of the Indian Constitution, was not just a social reformer and lawmaker—he was also a visionary planner who foresaw the critical role of water and power in nation-building. One of his lesser-known yet highly impactful contributions was in the field of water management and irrigation.
In March 1944, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar approved the Central Water-way and Irrigation Commission (CWINC), which was subsequently approved by the Viceroy on April 4, 1945. This marked the beginning of a strong technical framework for the development of India’s water resources.
Thanks to Dr. Ambedkar’s foresight:
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Our homes are illuminated with electricity.
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Our fields remain fertile and productive.
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India now possesses an organized approach to irrigation and water management, supporting major sectors of the economy.
Dr. Ambedkar’s role ensured that natural resources were strategically utilized for the country’s growth. If one examines India’s modern irrigation systems, electricity supply, and water-management projects, the credit goes largely to his vision and planning. Without his initiative, the development of India’s infrastructure and economy would have faced severe challenges.
Dr. Ambedkar’s work in this domain demonstrates that his contributions extended far beyond social justice and law; he played a crucial role in shaping India’s economic and technical landscape, ensuring sustainable growth for generations to come.
For a detailed study on this topic, refer to “Dr. Ambedkar’s Role in Economic Planning: Water and Power Policy” by Sukhadeo Thorat.