Indira Gandhi Canal, formerly known as the Rajasthan Canal, is the longest canal in India, stretching over 650 km. It originates from the Harike Barrage in Punjab, just below the confluence of the Sutlej and Beas rivers. The canal passes through Punjab and Haryana, with the majority of its length flowing through Rajasthan. It plays a vital role in supporting agriculture and water supply in arid regions.
Construction of the canal began in 1958 with the goal of transforming parts of the Thar Desert into fertile farmland. The canal terminates near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan and uses water released from the Pong Dam. In 1984, it was renamed in honor of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Today, it stands as one of India's most ambitious irrigation and desert development projects.