This scheme introduced by central government was launched in 1945-75 with the objective of bridging the gap between irrigation potential created and that utilized for ensuring efficient utilization of created irrigation potential and increasing agricultural productivity from the irrigated lands on a sustainable basis. The programme completes integrating various activities relating to irrigated agriculture through a multi-disciplinary team under an area development authority in coordinated manner. The existing components of CADP are as follows:

1. On farm development works, that is, development of field channels and field drains within the command of each outlet, land levelling on an outlet command basis; reclamation of water logged areas; enforcement of a proper system of rotational water supply (like warabandi) and fair distribution of water to individual fields; realignment of field boundaries, wherever necessary supply of all inputs and service including credit; strengthening of extension services; and encouraging farmers for participatory irrigation management.

2. Selection and introduction of suitable cropping pattern.

3. Development of ground water to supplement surface irrigation.

4. Development and maintenance of the main and intermediate drainage system.

5. Modernization, maintenance and efficient operation of irrigation system up to the outlet of one cusec (1ft$^3$/sec) capacity