The new AIBP criterion was approved by the Cabinet in Nov. 2006 and new guidelines were circulated   in Dec 2006, the extracts of the inclusion and funding criteria as per the current guidelines are given below:-

(i)        All the approved projects in (a) drought-prone areas, (b) tribal areas, (c) States with lower irrigation development as compared to National average and (d) districts identified under PM’s package for agrarian distress should be provided support under AIBP in relaxation to 1:1 criteria.  For other projects, 1:1 criteria i.e., taking up of another project in the State after completion of one ongoing project will remain applicable.

(ii)      The sanctioned grants to be released in two installments, the first based on projected outlay and the second after confirmation of expenditure. The grant component amounting to 90% of the total grant sanctioned will be released immediately and the balance 10% of the grant when 70% of the agreed expenditure is incurred.

(iii)    Removing distinction of Fast Track Projects, Reforming and Non-Reforming States and Release of grant of 25% of project cost for all irrigation projects in Non-Special Category States and 90% for Special Category States.

(iv)    Major/medium projects benefiting drought prone/tribal areas and flood prone areas will be eligible for 90% grant assistance. The Surface Water Minor irrigation schemes benefiting drought prone/tribal areas will also be eligible for 90% grant assistance. 

(iv)     Stipulation of 100 hectare in respect of surface water minor irrigation schemes predominantly benefiting backward regions be brought down to 50 hectare.  The stipulation of 10% beneficiary contributing in cost for post construction maintenance for Surface Water Minor Irrigation Schemes benefiting backward regions in non-Special Category States is also done away with.