Model Answer

Introduction

India’s irrigation system faces several significant challenges that hinder agricultural productivity and water management.

Major Challenges Faced by the Indian Irrigation System

1. Dependence on Unpredictable Monsoon Patterns: The Indian irrigation system heavily relies on monsoon rains, which are often erratic and delayed. Regions like Marathwada and Vidarbha in Maharashtra frequently experience droughts, leading to crop failures and increased farmer distress .
2. Deterioration of Irrigation Infrastructure: Many irrigation systems are outdated and poorly maintained, resulting in inefficiencies and significant water wastage. Silted dams and leaking canals reduce water availability at the farm level .
3. Subsidized Electricity: The provision of cheap or free electricity for agricultural pumping encourages over-extraction of groundwater, particularly in states like Punjab and Haryana, leading to severe depletion of aquifers.
4. High Costs of Modern Irrigation Systems: While modern irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems are effective in conserving water, their high initial costs make them inaccessible for small and marginal farmers.
5. Fragmented Policy Implementation: The lack of coordination among various levels of government leads to inefficiencies in implementing irrigation policies, such as the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY).
6. Water Pollution: The overuse of fertilizers and pesticides has contaminated water bodies, making them unsuitable for irrigation, particularly in regions reliant on rivers.
7. Climate Change: Increasingly frequent extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, disrupt traditional irrigation practices and exacerbate water scarcity.

Measures Taken by the Government for Efficient Irrigation Management

1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Launched in 2015, this scheme aims to improve irrigation infrastructure and promote micro-irrigation to ensure efficient water use.
2. Command Area Development and Water Management: This program enhances the utilization of irrigation potential through better management practices in command areas.
3. National Water Policy Revision: The revised policy emphasizes sustainable water management and the adoption of water-saving technologies.
4. Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM): This initiative encourages the involvement of Water User Associations in managing irrigation systems, leading to better local water management.
5. Adoption of Advanced Technologies: The government promotes the use of remote sensing and GIS to monitor irrigation projects and improve water use efficiency.
6. International Collaborations: India collaborates with countries like Israel to adopt modern irrigation techniques that optimize water usage.

Conclusion

Addressing the challenges faced by the Indian irrigation system through effective government measures is crucial for sustainable agricultural productivity and water security.