Improved Irrigation Is Changing Crop Choices and Farm Incomes in a Himachal Village, Adani Foundation

At ACC Gagal, cemented RCC water channels have strengthened traditional irrigation systems, helping a Ropa village farmer expand vegetable cultivation and raise annual income.

Himachal Pradesh, February 4, 2026: Improved access to irrigation is reshaping vegetable farming practices in Ropa village under the Dhounkothi Watershed Project, where Adani Foundation, working through ACC Gagal, has strengthened traditional water systems to support local agriculture.
The initiative focused on augmenting existing ‘kuhls’, or traditional irrigation channels, by constructing 335 metres of cemented RCC water channels. The intervention has improved water flow consistency, reduced leakage, and lowered the time and labour required for daily irrigation.

For local farmer Sandeep Kumar, the improvement has directly translated into more reliable cultivation. Earlier, limited water flow and frequent maintenance disrupted irrigation schedules and restricted crop planning. With the upgraded channel in place, he now cultivates a wider range of vegetables including lady finger, brinjal, turmeric, and garlic.
The shift to diversified vegetable farming has increased the family’s annual agricultural income from Rs. 31,600 to Rs. 40,100. The improved irrigation system has also reduced manual effort, allowing household members to devote more time to other livelihood activities such as livestock management.

Beyond individual benefits, the strengthened irrigation infrastructure has supported better overall farm productivity and contributed to improved biodiversity within cultivated areas. Consistent water availability has enabled healthier crop cycles and more efficient use of land resources.
Through infrastructure led rural development, ACC and the Adani Foundation continue to work with local communities, panchayats, and grassroots organisations to address practical challenges faced by farmers. Such initiatives aim to build long term resilience by improving access to essential resources, strengthening livelihoods, and supporting sustainable agricultural practices in rural Himachal Pradesh.

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