Post bifurcated Bihar supports a population of 8.29 crores, within a geographical area of 94163 sq. km. making it one of the most densely populated states in India. The thrust on agriculture in general and irrigation in particular has been pronounced on account of tremendous increase in population density. Bihar's problems of poverty and lack of economic growth can be addressed only through a rapid growth of agricultural productivity. To attend this goal, extension of irrigation facilities on a large scale is required. Massive investments need to be made for creation of irrigation potential and utilization of created potential through construction of major and medium irrigation schemes. The ultimate irrigation potential, which can be created, is 117.54 lakh ha out of which 53.53 lakh ha can be created through major and medium irrigation schemes. Till March 2016, a potential of 29.46 lakh ha has been created through 15 major and 78 medium completed schemes and 10 major and 3 medium ongoing schemes.