Since independence India is engaged in planned economic activities to achieve self reliance, foster economic development and improve the standard of living of its people. Among several measures adopted for this purpose, the scientific management of the water resources is one of them.
The river valley projects with many objectives in mind are called multipurpose projects. These objectives include irrigation, generation of hydro-electricity, flood control, a forestation, drinking water, soil conservation, silt control, navigation, pisciculture, recreational facilities, preserving wild life, and cattle rearing etc. These multi-purpose projects may be classified under two broad categories.
(a) Under Central Government-Funding of such projects is entirely done by the Central Government. Some important projects of this category include the Damodar valley project, Rihand, Bhakra- Nangal, Hirakud, Kosi, etc.
(b) Under State Government-Funding and supervision of such projects are done by the respective state government. In majority of the cases the fund is made available under central assistance to state governments. Some important projects under this category include: Chambal (Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan), Bansagar (M. P., U. P. and Bihar), Salal (Jammu and Kashmir), Thein, Hansgo Bango (H. P.), Machkund (Andhra Pradesh and Orissa),
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Nagarjunasagar, Pochampad and Rampadasagar (Andhra Pradesh), Tungabhadra (Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka), Ukai, Kakarapara, Mahi (Gujarat), Beas (Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan), Indira Gandhi Canal (Rajasthan), Parambikulam Aliyar (Tamil Nadu and Kerala), Ramganga, Sarda Sahayak and Matatila (Uttar Pradesh), Gandak (Uttar Pradesh and B ihar), Bhadra, Malprabha, Sharavati, Ghatprabha (Karnataka), Tawa (Madhya Pradesh), Gangapur, Puma, Koyna, Bhima and Girna (Maharashtra), Lower Bhawani, Manimuthar and Kunda (Tamil Nadu), Mayurakshi and Kangasavati (West Bengal), and Tungam (Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu).