Revisiting Ken–Betwa River Linking Project: Inclusive Development or Democratic Exclusion?

The Ken–Betwa River Linking Project (KBLP) is India’s first major inter-basin river transfer initiative aimed at solving water scarcity and enhancing development in Bundelkhand. The major thrust of the article is to critically examine its claims, arguing that projected benefits are compromised by hydrological assumptions, ecological degradation and weak community representation. It highlights risks of forest loss, biodiversity decline and violations of forest rights. This article advocates for a shift towards integrated water governance that emphasizes local community involvement, traditional water conservation methods and climate resilience, asserting that KBLP’s success hinges on balancing development with ecological and democratic principles.