The main objective of the department is to bring more area under irrigation, by providing proper irrigation facilities to farmers and further to tackle situations at times of drought and flood. The responsibility of the department lies in implementing the following important activities.

• To begin with, survey work will be conducted for any new project to be taken up. Based on survey results, estimates will be prepared, reviewed and the administrative approval and Technical sanction will be obtained from the appropriate authority.


• Implementing the Rules under Karnataka Irrigation Act.


• Taking up construction of Minor Irrigation Schemes such as tanks, anicuts, pickups Lift Irrigation Schemes & barrages, both under State funds and financial assistance received from Central Government and NABARD.


• Restoration of underground water level through percolation tanks.


• Co-ordinating with Railways and other related departments for ensuring safe protection to Railway lines by taking preventive measures concerning Railway affecting tanks.


• River bank protection works.


• Construction and maintenance of Lift irrigation schemes.


• Protection works to the agricultural land in costal area to avoid salt water.


• Formation of Water Users Association for completed tanks and handing over the tanks to them for the purpose of maintenance and repairs (community based scheme).


• Joint inspection by the Irrigation and Revenue department for fixing of water rates periodically. Revenue Collection task is taken by the Revenue Department.


• Maintenance of Statistics pertaining to M.I. works.


• Maintenance of general administration, inspection of the activities of the subordinate offices.