Udaipur/Shimla — The way states coordinate with the Central Water Commission (CWC) is set for a major shift with the introduction of the Evapotranspiration (ET) Tool, designed to boost irrigation performance and water use efficiency.
The tool was unveiled during the 2nd All India State Water Ministers’ Conference 2025 held in Udaipur, with the blessings of the Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti.
ET Tool: Faster, Cost-Effective Irrigation Assessment Using Satellite Data
P. Gyamba Dorje, Chief Engineer, CWC, says the new Evapotranspiration (ET) Tool uses satellite data to assess irrigation projects in just 5-6 minutes, compared to the 4-5 years required for traditional physical assessments. "Satellite-based assessments are almost free and can be done annually," Dorje added.
A fact sheet on the tool was shared with Chief Ministers, Deputy Chief Ministers, and Water Ministers on the first day of the 2nd All India State Water Ministers’ Conference 2025 in Udaipur.
P. Gyamba Dorje, Chief Engineer, CWC—who hails from Kinnaur, Himachal Pradesh—presented the tool, highlighting its capabilities in assisting top executives with data-driven decision-making.
The ET Tool enables the CWC to analyze irrigation commands across the country and share its findings with respective State Irrigation and Water Resources Departments for verification and implementation.
Dorje emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between states and the Ministry of Jal Shakti to ensure the tool’s successful adoption, ultimately enhancing irrigation performance nationwide.
With this tool, the assessment of water use efficiency in irrigation projects is expected to become more transparent and streamlined, fostering better water resource management and improved crop productivity across states.
