Minister for PHE, Irrigation &Flood Control, Sham Choudhary today stressed that canals are vital for providing irrigation facilities to the tail end and concerted efforts should be made to ensure their better upkeep.The minister said this on the occasion of release of water in the vent of the main heads of Pratap and Ranbir canals on the eve of Baisakhi festival. He also called upon the people to help in keeping the canals neat and clean to maintain their efficacy.The Minister was accompanied by Member Parliament, Shamsher Singh Manhas, MLA Akhnoor, Rajeev Sharma, Chief Engineer RTIC, H. C.Jerath, Chief Engineer, PHE, I&FC, Rajeev Gandotra and senior officers.Pertinent to mention that these two main canals of Jammu division are significant for irrigating the major chunk of land in Jammu. The length of Ranbir canal is approximately 60 kms that begins from Chenab River and passes through Jammu city onwards covering several hamlets and villages. Pratap canal which is approximately 34 kms lengths with 15 number of distributaries covers several parts of Akhnoor, Jourian and Khour tehsil.Earlier, the Minster also inspected the status of desilting works of the canals. While addressing various public gatherings during the visit, the Minister said that various state and centrally sponsored schemes have been introduced for improving socio economic conditions of the farmers. He stressed that necessary directions have been given to ensure farmers are kept aware about these welfare schemes adding that priority has been laid on augmenting irrigation facilities across the state.Several deputations also met the Minister and appraised him about their demands regarding augmentation of irrigation facilities and drinking water supply.Minister directed the concerned to address these issues on priority and asked the field functionaries to work with zeal and dedication to improve the service delivery mechanism.