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What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management. (Answer in 250 words) [UPSC 2024]
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 Dependence on Unpredictable Monsoon Patterns: The Indian irrigation system heavily relies on monRead more
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
Measures Taken by the Government for Efficient Irrigation Management
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges faced by the Indian irrigation system through effective government measures is crucial for sustainable agricultural productivity and water security.
See lessProvide a brief overview of the irrigation situation in India and explain the current efforts to expand the irrigated area in the country. (150 words)
Model Answer Introduction Irrigation refers to the artificial application of water to land to assist in the growth of crops. It is vital for ensuring consistent agricultural productivity in India, particularly in regions with erratic rainfall. In a country where agriculture is the backbone of the ecRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Irrigation refers to the artificial application of water to land to assist in the growth of crops. It is vital for ensuring consistent agricultural productivity in India, particularly in regions with erratic rainfall. In a country where agriculture is the backbone of the economy, effective irrigation is essential for food security, improving crop yields, and boosting farmers’ incomes.
Irrigation Scenario of India:
Current Initiatives to Increase Irrigated Area:
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Launched in 2015, PMKSY aims to increase irrigation efficiency and expand the area under irrigation. Key components of this initiative include:
- Micro-irrigation (e.g., drip and sprinkler systems) to optimize water usage.
- Watershed development to enhance water storage and reduce wastage.
- The Per Drop More Crop component focuses on maximizing agricultural productivity with minimal water.
- Command Area Development (CAD) Program: This initiative aims to improve water use efficiency in areas under major and medium irrigation projects. By focusing on distribution and management, CAD helps farmers make better use of available water.
- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Program (AIBP): AIBP focuses on completing stalled irrigation projects and improving water resource utilization. This program aims to ensure that irrigation systems are not just built but are functional and sustainable.
- Watershed Management and Rainwater Harvesting: Integrated watershed development programs (IWDP) aim to conserve water and increase its availability. By restoring degraded watersheds, these initiatives help improve water quality and availability for agriculture.
- Promotion of Micro-irrigation: The government encourages the use of drip and sprinkler irrigation systems through the PMKSY – Per Drop More Crop initiative. These systems help save water, improve crop yields, and reduce labor costs.
- Dams and Reservoirs: Large-scale irrigation projects like the Bhakra Nangal Dam, Hirakud Dam, and Sardar Sarovar Dam play a crucial role in storing water for agricultural use. As of 2021, 21 dam projects were under review for construction . These dams ensure a stable water supply for irrigation during dry periods.
- Technology and Innovation: The use of technologies like remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) helps monitor water resources efficiently. This ensures better planning and management of irrigation systems, reducing wastage and improving water allocation.
See lessAnalyze the impact of climate change on the availability and distribution of water resources for irrigation, and discuss the strategies adopted by the government and farmers to enhance the resilience of irrigation systems and ensure food security.
Climate Change Impact on irrigation Systems; Resilience plans for irrigation Directly affecting agricultural irrigation, climate change fundamentally changes water availability and distribution. Increasing temperatures and changing weather patterns, effects such as sporadic precipitation, glacier meRead more
Climate Change Impact on irrigation Systems; Resilience plans for irrigation
Directly affecting agricultural irrigation, climate change fundamentally changes water availability and distribution. Increasing temperatures and changing weather patterns, effects such as sporadic precipitation, glacier melt, and groundwater depletion endanger rural livelihoods along with food security. It is thus dependent on strong irrigation resilience to mitigate these risks.
Impact of Climate Change on Water Resources for Irrigation.
2. Melting glaciers lower long-term water supply by affecting the river basins of the Himalayan (Ganga, Indus, Brahmaputra).
3. Groundwater Depletion. Aggressive withdrawal of groundwater, combined with postponed recharge, exacerbates lack of irrigation water.
5. Flooding & Waterlogging–Heavy rains result in overflow from rivers, ruining agricultural fields and irrigation systems.
Government Policies for Strengthening Irrigation
River Basin Management and Interlinking Projects
Namami Gange and the Ken-Bethwa Linking Project ensure that river water can be supplied sustainably.
Farmer-driven Adaptation Methods
2. Effective community water management
Summary
India’s irrigation security is under threat from climate change, so effective water management, policy initiatives, and farmer-driven adaptation are needed. Sustainable farming and long-term food security depend much on strengthening robust irrigation systems.
See lessAnalyze the implications of the growing demand for water from the industrial and domestic sectors on the availability of water for agricultural irrigation, and discuss the policy measures and institutional arrangements required to balance the competing water needs.
The need for water that households and industries require threatens the irrigation supply. Water serves as an essential resource which fulfills agricultural requirements as well as industrial needs and supports domestic needs. India dedicates 80% of its entire water supply to agricultural productionRead more
The need for water that households and industries require threatens the irrigation supply. Water serves as an essential resource which fulfills agricultural requirements as well as industrial needs and supports domestic needs. India dedicates 80% of its entire water supply to agricultural production.
Implications of Increasing Industrial & Domestic Water Demand on Irrigation
1. The water supply destined for crop cultivation decreases because industries and urban areas consume higher amounts of water together with the water needed for energy generation especially within regions that already experience water shortages.
2. The excessive water extraction activities of industries together with urban consumers cause further groundwater depletion problems that affect farmers with borewell and well-based sources.
3. Industrial effluents along with domestic sewage reduce both the amount of available irrigation water and the overall soil health due to water quality deterioration.
4. Water governance should be established to resolve conflicts that develop when water requirements compete between farmers and industrial and municipal sectors.
5. The reduction in rural income becomes more likely as irrigation becomes rain-dependent when crop production volumes decrease due to water scarcity.
Policy Measures to Balance Competing Water Demands 1. Efficient Water Management in Agriculture
1. The implementation of micro-irrigation systems including drip systems and sprinklers should be encouraged to reduce water waste. The implementation of crop diversity practices should focus on selecting low-water-consuming plant species.
2. Managed Water Resources Require a Strong System of Governance Together with Robust Institutional Frameworks
A fair water distribution system should adopt Integrated Water Resource Management as a framework.
The State Water Regulatory Authorities should receive the authority to perform inspections of industrial and domestic water consumption.
3. Industrial & Urban Water Conservation
Water recycling requirements along with treatment obligations must apply to every industrial facility.
Smart water metering systems together with rainwater harvesting should be implemented in urban areas.
4. Groundwater Regulation & Conservation
Industrial organizations need to restrict their groundwater extraction activities.
The government should enhance the water management programs established through Jal Shakti Abhiyan.
5. Strengthening Institutional Arrangements
See less– Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) for sustainable water management.
– Promote community-based water governance through Pani Panchayats and Watershed Committees.
Can smart irrigation effectively tackle the challenges of India's current irrigation system?(200 Words)
Model Answer Issues with India's Current Irrigation System Low Coverage: Despite progress, only 55% of India's cultivated land has access to assured irrigation, leaving many farmers dependent on unpredictable rainfall. Unequal Distribution: Regional disparities persist in irrigation infrastructure.Read more
Model Answer
Issues with India’s Current Irrigation System
Role of Smart Irrigation Systems (SIS)
Conclusion
While high costs, power supply issues, and the need for farmer training remain challenges, smart irrigation systems offer a transformative solution for India’s irrigation inefficiencies. Their adoption can pave the way for sustainable water management and improved agricultural productivity.
See lessWhat is allelopathy? Discuss its role in major cropping systems of irrigated agriculture. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Allelopathy: Definition and Role in Irrigated Agriculture 1. Definition of Allelopathy: Allelopathy refers to the biochemical interactions between plants where one plant releases chemicals (allelochemicals) into the environment that influence the growth and development of neighboring plants. These cRead more
Allelopathy: Definition and Role in Irrigated Agriculture
1. Definition of Allelopathy: Allelopathy refers to the biochemical interactions between plants where one plant releases chemicals (allelochemicals) into the environment that influence the growth and development of neighboring plants. These chemicals can either inhibit or stimulate plant growth. The term was first introduced by Hans Molisch in 1937.
2. Role in Major Cropping Systems:
a. Weed Management: In irrigated cropping systems, allelopathy plays a significant role in weed management. Certain crops, like sunflower and sorghum, release allelochemicals that can suppress weed growth. For example, the allelopathic effects of sorghum have been utilized to reduce weed infestations in rice paddies, minimizing the need for chemical herbicides.
b. Soil Health: Allelopathic crops can enhance soil health by suppressing pathogens and promoting beneficial microbial communities. Mustard and coriander are known for their allelopathic properties that help in controlling soil-borne diseases, leading to healthier crop growth in irrigated systems.
c. Crop Rotation: Incorporating allelopathic crops in rotation can improve crop productivity and reduce pest and disease pressures. For instance, rotating legumes with cereal crops can enhance soil fertility and reduce disease incidence, thereby benefiting overall crop yield and quality.
d. Resource Competition: Allelopathy can help manage resource competition in densely planted systems by suppressing the growth of less desirable plants. In rice fields, the use of allelopathic varieties like wild rice can help control competing species, optimizing resource use for the main crop.
Conclusion: Allelopathy is a crucial aspect of modern irrigated agriculture, offering sustainable methods for weed management, soil health, crop rotation, and resource competition. Its application can lead to increased crop productivity and reduced dependence on synthetic chemicals, promoting a more eco-friendly agricultural practice.
See lessDescribe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency. (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
Role of Micro-Irrigation in Increasing Water-Use Efficiency 1. Precision in Water Application: Micro-irrigation systems, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, deliver water directly to the plant roots in a controlled manner. This precision minimizes water wastage and evaporation losses, ensuring thRead more
Role of Micro-Irrigation in Increasing Water-Use Efficiency
1. Precision in Water Application: Micro-irrigation systems, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, deliver water directly to the plant roots in a controlled manner. This precision minimizes water wastage and evaporation losses, ensuring that water is used efficiently. For example, the drip irrigation system in Maharashtra’s onion cultivation has shown up to a 40% reduction in water usage compared to traditional methods.
2. Reduction in Water Consumption: Micro-irrigation significantly reduces the overall water consumption compared to flood irrigation. Studies indicate that drip irrigation can reduce water usage by 30-50%, which is crucial in water-scarce regions. In Gujarat, the adoption of micro-irrigation in cotton and sugarcane fields has led to savings of approximately 35% in water.
3. Enhanced Crop Yields: By providing water directly to the root zone, micro-irrigation promotes better crop growth and increased yields. For instance, in Andhra Pradesh, the use of micro-irrigation in groundnut cultivation has led to a 20-25% increase in yields due to more efficient water use.
4. Soil Moisture Management: Micro-irrigation systems maintain optimal soil moisture levels, reducing the risk of overwatering and improving soil health. The rain-fed areas of Tamil Nadu have benefited from better soil moisture management through micro-irrigation, enhancing crop resilience during dry spells.
5. Energy Efficiency: Micro-irrigation reduces the energy required for water pumping compared to conventional irrigation systems. In Karnataka, switching to micro-irrigation has led to energy savings of up to 25% due to lower water pumping needs.
Conclusion: Micro-irrigation plays a crucial role in enhancing water-use efficiency by providing precise water application, reducing consumption, increasing crop yields, managing soil moisture, and saving energy. The adoption of these systems, as seen in various states, highlights their effectiveness in optimizing water resources and improving agricultural productivity.
See lessSuggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenario. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
Measures to Improve Water Storage and Irrigation Systems 1. Enhancing Water Storage Capacity Construction of Check Dams and Recharge Pits: Implementation: Build small check dams and recharge pits in rural areas to capture and store rainwater, enhancing groundwater recharge. Example: The “Jal JeevanRead more
Measures to Improve Water Storage and Irrigation Systems
1. Enhancing Water Storage Capacity
2. Improving Irrigation Efficiency
3. Promoting Water-Efficient Crops and Practices
4. Institutional and Policy Measures
By implementing these measures, India can improve water storage and irrigation efficiency, ensuring the judicious use of water resources in the face of depleting water supplies.
See lessHow and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis? (150 words) [UPSC 2021]
Micro-Irrigation and India's Water Crisis 1. Efficient Water Use: Micro-irrigation systems, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, offer precise water application directly to plant roots, reducing water wastage and evaporation losses. For instance, in Maharashtra, the adoption of drip irrigation inRead more
Micro-Irrigation and India’s Water Crisis
1. Efficient Water Use: Micro-irrigation systems, such as drip and sprinkler irrigation, offer precise water application directly to plant roots, reducing water wastage and evaporation losses. For instance, in Maharashtra, the adoption of drip irrigation in sugarcane cultivation has resulted in up to a 30% reduction in water usage while increasing crop yields.
2. Improved Agricultural Productivity: By ensuring optimal water supply, micro-irrigation enhances crop productivity and quality. In Karnataka, drip irrigation in horticultural crops like tomatoes has led to significant yield increases and improved crop quality, demonstrating its potential to enhance overall agricultural output.
3. Water Conservation: Micro-irrigation helps in recharging groundwater and reducing the strain on surface water resources. In Tamil Nadu, micro-irrigation techniques have helped sustain groundwater levels despite prolonged drought conditions.
4. Economic Benefits: It reduces the need for extensive water resources and can lower overall operational costs. Farmers in Gujarat have reported cost savings and better resource management due to micro-irrigation systems.
Extent of Impact: While micro-irrigation has significant benefits, its adoption is limited by factors such as high initial costs and maintenance requirements. Government subsidies and technological advancements are critical in scaling up its use.
Overall, micro-irrigation presents a promising solution for mitigating India’s water crisis, particularly when combined with supportive policies and broader adoption.
See lessAssess the potential of digital technologies, such as remote sensing, real-time monitoring, and decision support systems, in enhancing the planning, management, and optimization of irrigation water use, and discuss the challenges in scaling up these innovations.
Potential of Digital Technologies in Enhancing Irrigation Water Use Digital technologies such as remote sensing, real-time monitoring, and decision support systems offer significant potential for improving the planning, management, and optimization of irrigation water use. These innovations can tranRead more
Potential of Digital Technologies in Enhancing Irrigation Water Use
Digital technologies such as remote sensing, real-time monitoring, and decision support systems offer significant potential for improving the planning, management, and optimization of irrigation water use. These innovations can transform irrigation practices by providing accurate data, improving efficiency, and supporting informed decision-making. However, scaling up these technologies presents several challenges.
1. Remote Sensing
a. Enhancing Planning and Management
b. Supporting Precision Agriculture
2. Real-Time Monitoring
a. Improving Irrigation Efficiency
b. Adaptive Management
3. Decision Support Systems (DSS)
a. Optimizing Water Use
b. Supporting Policy and Planning
Challenges in Scaling Up Digital Technologies
1. Infrastructure and Connectivity Issues
2. High Costs and Affordability
3. Data Management and Interpretation
4. Integration with Existing Systems
Conclusion
Digital technologies such as remote sensing, real-time monitoring, and decision support systems have substantial potential to enhance the planning, management, and optimization of irrigation water use. They offer benefits such as improved efficiency, better resource management, and data-driven decision-making. However, challenges such as infrastructure limitations, high costs, data management issues, and integration difficulties must be addressed to scale up these innovations effectively. Overcoming these challenges through targeted policies, investments, and capacity-building initiatives will be crucial for leveraging the full potential of digital technologies in irrigation management.
See less