Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Context of Water Scarcity: Introduce the issue of water scarcity in India, highlighting the disparity between population and water resources. Fact: India has 18% of the world’s population but only 4% of its freshwater resources. (Source: World ...
Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions
TeamSupreme
Propose ways to enhance water storage and irrigation systems so that they can be used wisely in situations where resources are running low. (250 words) [UPSC 2020]
Arjun SharmaBegginer
Examine how well government policies and laws, like the Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill, have addressed the problems associated with managing groundwater resources, such as overexploitation and aquifer depletion.
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Challenges in Managing Groundwater Resources and the Effectiveness of Government Policies 1. Overview of Groundwater Management Challenges Overexploitation of Groundwater Intensive Use: Overexploitation occurs when groundwater extraction exceeds the natural recharge rate, leading to declining waterRead more
Challenges in Managing Groundwater Resources and the Effectiveness of Government Policies
1. Overview of Groundwater Management Challenges
Overexploitation of Groundwater
- Intensive Use: Overexploitation occurs when groundwater extraction exceeds the natural recharge rate, leading to declining water tables and depletion of aquifers.
- Recent Example: In Punjab, excessive groundwater extraction for irrigation has caused a significant drop in water levels, with some regions experiencing water tables falling below 300 meters.
Depletion of Aquifers
- Aquifer Depletion: Continuous overuse results in the depletion of aquifers, reducing their capacity to store water and leading to long-term water scarcity.
- Recent Example: In Rajasthan, the depletion of the Jaipur aquifer has led to severe water shortages and has impacted agricultural productivity.
Water Quality Issues
- Contamination: Overexploitation can lead to the intrusion of contaminants such as arsenic, fluoride, and nitrate into groundwater, affecting water quality and public health.
- Recent Example: In West Bengal, arsenic contamination in groundwater has been linked to serious health issues, including cancer and skin diseases, due to the overuse of shallow aquifers.
2. Government Policies and Regulations
Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill
Objectives and Provisions
- Bill Overview: The Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill aims to regulate the extraction and use of groundwater to ensure sustainability and prevent overexploitation.
- Key Provisions: Includes measures for monitoring groundwater levels, regulation of extraction, and promotion of sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and artificial recharge.
Recent Example
- Bill Status: As of 2024, the Bill is in the legislative process and has yet to be enacted into law. It represents a critical step towards formalizing groundwater management practices at the national level.
3. Effectiveness of Existing Policies
National Water Policy
Integrated Approach
- Policy Framework: The National Water Policy emphasizes integrated water resources management, including the regulation of groundwater use and the promotion of sustainable practices.
- Recent Example: The 2012 policy update encourages states to implement measures for groundwater conservation and promotes the use of technology for monitoring water resources.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)
Water Efficiency
- Support for Efficient Use: PMKSY promotes water-saving technologies like drip irrigation, which can indirectly help reduce the pressure on groundwater resources.
- Recent Example: In Maharashtra, the adoption of drip irrigation under PMKSY has led to more efficient water use and reduced dependency on groundwater for agriculture.
State-Level Initiatives
Local Regulations
- State Efforts: Various states have implemented their own regulations and programs to address groundwater issues, such as restricting groundwater extraction and promoting recharge projects.
- Recent Example: Gujarat has introduced a state groundwater policy that includes measures for regulating extraction and encouraging the use of rainwater harvesting.
4. Evaluation of Policy Effectiveness
Implementation Challenges
- Enforcement Issues: Effective enforcement of groundwater regulations is often hampered by inadequate monitoring infrastructure and lack of coordination between agencies.
- Recent Example: In Karnataka, challenges in enforcing groundwater regulations have led to continued overexploitation despite existing policies.
Funding and Resources
- Resource Allocation: Limited financial resources and insufficient infrastructure for groundwater monitoring and management can affect the implementation of policies.
- Recent Example: In Uttar Pradesh, inadequate funding has impacted the ability to implement groundwater recharge projects effectively.
Public Awareness and Participation
- Engagement: Increasing public awareness and involving local communities in groundwater management are essential for the success of policies.
- Recent Example: In Madhya Pradesh, community-based groundwater management initiatives have shown positive results in improving water conservation practices at the grassroots level.
5. Recommendations for Improving Groundwater Management
Strengthening Legislation and Enforcement
- Enhanced Regulations: Finalizing and enforcing the Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill and similar regulations with a focus on robust monitoring and compliance mechanisms.
- Recommendation: Strengthening the enforcement framework and increasing investments in groundwater monitoring infrastructure.
Promoting Technological Solutions
- Innovative Technologies: Leveraging technology for better monitoring, data collection, and management of groundwater resources, such as satellite imagery and remote sensing.
- Recommendation: Investing in advanced technologies for real-time groundwater monitoring and management.
Encouraging Community Participation
- Local Involvement: Encouraging community participation in groundwater management through awareness programs and local water user associations.
- Recommendation: Developing programs that engage local communities in groundwater conservation and management efforts.
Investing in Sustainable Practices
- Adoption of Sustainable Practices: Promoting sustainable agricultural practices and water-saving technologies to reduce the dependency on groundwater.
- Recommendation: Expanding support for practices like rainwater harvesting, artificial recharge, and efficient irrigation techniques.
6. Conclusion
Managing groundwater resources effectively is crucial for ensuring sustainable water availability and addressing the challenges of overexploitation and aquifer depletion. While government policies such as the Groundwater (Sustainable Management) Bill represent important steps toward better regulation and management, challenges related to enforcement, funding, and public awareness remain. By strengthening legislation, promoting technological solutions, encouraging community participation, and investing in sustainable practices, India can improve groundwater management and support the long-term sustainability of its water resources.
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TeamSupreme
What part does micro-irrigation play in improving water-use efficiency? (200 words) [UPSC 2016]
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Model Answer Introduction Water scarcity is a pressing issue in India, which has 18% of the world’s population but only 4% of its freshwater resources. Agriculture consumes the majority of this water, making efficient irrigation crucial. Micro-irrigation, which includes methods like drip and sprinklRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Water scarcity is a pressing issue in India, which has 18% of the world’s population but only 4% of its freshwater resources. Agriculture consumes the majority of this water, making efficient irrigation crucial. Micro-irrigation, which includes methods like drip and sprinkler irrigation, offers a modern solution to enhance water-use efficiency.
Benefits of Micro-Irrigation
1. Reduced Water Consumption
Micro-irrigation systems can decrease agricultural water demand by 30-50%. By delivering water directly to the root zone, these systems minimize losses from conveyance, runoff, deep percolation, and evaporation.
2. Decreased Dependence on Groundwater
This method is particularly beneficial for dryland farming, helping to reduce reliance on depleting groundwater aquifers. It also lowers electricity consumption, as less water needs to be pumped.
3. Sustainability
Micro-irrigation promotes sustainable practices by replacing flood irrigation, which can lead to groundwater pollution and salinity. Localized water application prevents fertilizer washout, thereby reducing nutrient loss and leaching.
4. Scalability
Currently, less than 50% of agricultural land is irrigated, with over 80% of farmers being small and marginal. Implementing micro-irrigation can reduce dependence on monsoon rains and lower vulnerability to drought, all while conserving water.
Challenges
Despite its advantages, micro-irrigation faces challenges, particularly in affordability for small farmers. Maintenance costs for systems like tubes and sprinklers can be prohibitive, especially for those with small landholdings. Furthermore, micro-irrigation may not alleviate water stress in regions where unsuitable crops, like sugarcane and paddy, dominate.
Conclusion
Micro-irrigation holds significant promise for improving water-use efficiency in India, especially in water-scarce regions. However, it should be part of a broader strategy that includes water conservation, storage solutions, and adjustments in cropping patterns to effectively tackle the water crisis.
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Arjun SharmaBegginer
Examine the effects of the increasing water demand from the household and industrial sectors on the amount of water available for irrigation in agriculture, and talk about the institutional structures and policy changes needed to strike a balance between the ...
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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
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– Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) for sustainable water management.
– Promote community-based water governance through Pani Panchayats and Watershed Committees.
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define smart irrigation and highlight its significance in sustainable water management for agriculture. Briefly mention the challenges in India’s current irrigation system to establish the context. Example: “Smart irrigation systems leverage advanced technologies such as sensors and automation to ...
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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
- 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. For instance, 94% of farm plots in Tamil Nadu are irrigated, whereas Himachal Pradesh relies almost entirely on rain-fed farming.
- Groundwater Depletion: Excessive extraction for irrigation has led to groundwater exhaustion, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan, where annual withdrawals exceed recharge rates.
- Low Irrigation Efficiency: Poorly maintained infrastructure like unlined canals results in water losses, with India’s average irrigation efficiency at 38%, much lower than 50-60% in developed countries.
- Farmer Awareness: Only 19% of irrigated land uses micro-irrigation systems, while inefficient flood irrigation dominates, causing waterlogging and soil erosion.
Role of Smart Irrigation Systems (SIS)
- Water Conservation: SIS uses real-time data and automation to optimize water use, preventing over-watering and enhancing crop yields.
- Example: Precision drip systems reduce water wastage significantly.
- Precision Irrigation: Advanced sensors ensure water is delivered directly to roots, improving efficiency and reducing weed growth.
- Environmental Sustainability: By preventing waterlogging and soil erosion, SIS supports sustainable agriculture and combats groundwater depletion.
- Remote Monitoring: SIS-equipped mobile apps allow real-time control and monitoring, improving both on-farm and off-farm water management.
- Data-Driven Decision-Making: Insights from soil moisture and weather data aid in informed irrigation practices, continuously improving water efficiency.
- Energy Efficiency: Efficient water distribution methods save energy, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana that rely on water pumping systems.
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.
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Abhishek SinghLearner
Explore how informal, community-based irrigation systems, like the tank irrigation systems in southern India, can enhance formal irrigation infrastructure and help ensure sustainable water resource management.
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Define Irrigation: Start by explaining the importance of irrigation in agriculture, especially in India where a large portion of agriculture is dependent on monsoon rains. Contextualize Irrigation in India: Mention how irrigation impacts crop yield, food security, ...
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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:
- Percentage of Irrigated Area: As of 2022-23, India has approximately 141 million hectares of land under cultivation, with 52% (about 73 million hectares) under irrigation. This is a significant increase from 41% in 2016, highlighting positive trends in irrigation expansion.
- Methods of Irrigation:
- Groundwater Irrigation: Around 62% of irrigation in India relies on groundwater, making it the dominant method. This includes the use of wells, tubewells, and borewells.
- Canals: Approximately 26% of irrigation is through canal systems. The growing reliance on groundwater has raised concerns about its sustainability, especially in areas with over-exploitation.
- Regional Disparities: There are significant differences in irrigation access across regions. While some states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh have extensive irrigation infrastructure, others, particularly in eastern and central India, still have limited irrigation coverage.
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.
Abhishek SinghLearner
Examine how high-value, water-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables are replacing less sustainable irrigation techniques and water-using resources generally. Also, talk about the policy changes that are necessary to encourage crop diversification and sustainable water management.
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Impact of the Shift Towards High-Value, Water-Intensive Crops on Water Use Efficiency and Irrigation Sustainability The shift towards cultivating high-value, water-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables has significant implications for water use efficiency and the sustainability of irrigation syRead more
Impact of the Shift Towards High-Value, Water-Intensive Crops on Water Use Efficiency and Irrigation Sustainability
The shift towards cultivating high-value, water-intensive crops like fruits and vegetables has significant implications for water use efficiency and the sustainability of irrigation systems in India. While these crops can offer substantial economic benefits, they also pose challenges related to water resource management. Analyzing these impacts and discussing necessary policy interventions can help in achieving a balance between economic gains and sustainable water management.
1. Impact on Water Use Efficiency
a. Increased Water Demand: High-value crops such as fruits and vegetables generally require more water compared to traditional cereals:
- Water Consumption: These crops often have higher water needs, which can lead to increased overall water consumption. For example:
- Horticultural Crops: Growing crops like mangoes, grapes, and cucumbers typically demands more irrigation compared to staple crops like wheat or rice, putting additional pressure on water resources.
b. Efficiency of Water Use: While these crops are water-intensive, they often benefit from modern irrigation techniques that can enhance water use efficiency:
- Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation: Advanced irrigation methods such as drip and sprinkler systems are used to optimize water use for high-value crops. For instance:
- Maharashtra’s Drip Irrigation in Grapes: In Nashik, drip irrigation has been successfully employed in grape cultivation to reduce water usage while improving yields.
2. Impact on Irrigation Systems and Sustainability
a. Pressure on Water Resources: The increased cultivation of water-intensive crops can strain existing irrigation systems and water resources:
- Groundwater Depletion: Overreliance on groundwater for high-value crops can lead to depletion of aquifers. For example:
- Punjab and Haryana: Intensive cultivation of water-intensive crops in these regions has resulted in significant groundwater depletion, raising concerns about long-term water sustainability.
b. Sustainability of Irrigation Infrastructure: The shift towards these crops can challenge the sustainability of traditional irrigation infrastructure:
- Infrastructure Strain: Traditional irrigation systems may not be designed to handle the demands of high-value crops, leading to inefficiencies and infrastructure stress. For instance:
- Tank Irrigation Systems: In southern India, traditional tank irrigation systems may struggle to meet the increased water demands of high-value crops, affecting their overall sustainability.
3. Policy Interventions to Promote Crop Diversification and Sustainable Water Management
a. Promoting Crop Diversification: Encouraging a diverse range of crops can help reduce pressure on water resources:
- Diversification Incentives: Policies that promote the cultivation of a mix of crops, including drought-resistant varieties, can improve water use efficiency. For example:
- National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA): This mission supports crop diversification and sustainable agricultural practices, including the use of drought-resistant crops.
b. Enhancing Water Efficiency: Investing in technologies and practices that enhance water use efficiency is critical:
- Advanced Irrigation Techniques: Promoting the adoption of efficient irrigation systems like drip and sprinkler irrigation for all crop types. For example:
- Subsidy Programs: Government subsidy schemes, such as those for installing drip irrigation systems in horticulture, help improve water use efficiency.
c. Supporting Research and Development: Investing in research to develop water-efficient crop varieties and technologies:
- Research Initiatives: Supporting research to develop crops that require less water and are resilient to climate variability. For instance:
- ICAR Research: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is involved in developing water-efficient crop varieties and technologies to enhance sustainability.
d. Improving Water Resource Management: Implementing comprehensive water resource management practices to ensure sustainable use:
- Integrated Water Management: Adopting integrated water resource management (IWRM) practices to balance water allocation between different crop types. For example:
- River Basin Management: Programs like the National River Conservation Plan work towards integrated management of river basins, which can improve water distribution and usage efficiency.
e. Policy and Regulatory Framework: Establishing policies and regulations that promote sustainable agricultural practices:
- Water Use Regulations: Implementing regulations that limit excessive water use for high-value crops and encourage sustainable practices. For instance:
- Groundwater Regulation: States like Rajasthan have introduced regulations on groundwater extraction to manage water use for high-value crops more sustainably.
f. Farmer Education and Training: Providing education and training to farmers on sustainable practices and efficient water use:
- Training Programs: Conducting training programs to educate farmers on the benefits of crop diversification and efficient water management practices. For example:
- Kisan Call Centers and Training Programs: Initiatives under the Soil Health Management Scheme provide farmers with information on sustainable practices and efficient water use.
Conclusion
The shift towards high-value, water-intensive crops presents both opportunities and challenges for water use efficiency and the sustainability of irrigation systems in India. While these crops can offer significant economic benefits, they also place additional demands on water resources and infrastructure. Addressing these challenges through crop diversification, enhanced water efficiency, research and development, and supportive policies is crucial for ensuring sustainable water management and agricultural productivity. By implementing targeted policy interventions and investing in sustainable practices, India can better balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
See less - Water Consumption: These crops often have higher water needs, which can lead to increased overall water consumption. For example:
Abhinav GuptaBegginer
Examine how climate change affects the distribution and availability of water resources for irrigation, and talk about the measures taken by the government and farmers to improve irrigation system resilience and guarantee food security.
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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.
- Inconsistent Rainfall & Droughts: Erratic monsoons lower surface water resources hence stressing were scarce for farming.
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.
- Greater evapotranspiration—high temperatures lead rapid soil moisture and reservoir water loss, therefore lowering irrigation efficiency.
5. Flooding & Waterlogging–Heavy rains result in overflow from rivers, ruining agricultural fields and irrigation systems.
Government Policies for Strengthening Irrigation
- water use efficiency higher
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) promotes micro-irrigation (drip & sprinkler systems). Let’s reduce water wastage.
- The Jal Shakti Abhiyan lays emphasis on watershed management and collection of rainwater.
- responsible Ground Water Management
- Atal Bhujal Yojana for community-based ground water protection
- better planning of ground water resources is a direct outcome of aquifer mapping.
- Adaptive Infrastructure
- check dams, canal lining, and flood control policies assist withwater storage and distribution.
- no Solar-powered irrigation pumps increase lesser reliance on the inconsistent electricity supply.
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
- Crop Diversification & Resilient Farming Over Climate Changes
- Acceptance of drought-tolerant and water-efficient crops like millet, pulses).
- Agroforestry and organic farming may help to conserve the moisture of soil
2. Effective community water management
- Watershed Committees and Pani Panchayats will ensure just distribution of waters.
- Jal Kunds, Phad irrigation: the use of age old water conservation practice is appreciated.
- Innovative Irrigation Method
- Precision agriculture and sensor-based irrigation ensures proper utilization of water.
- Creating live weather predictions on digital channels helps one to carefully plan watering schedules.
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.
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Model Answer Introduction Water scarcity is a pressing issue in India, where the country has 18% of the world's population but only 4% of its freshwater resources. Agriculture is the largest consumer of this limited water supply, emphasizing the need for efficient irrigation methods. Micro-irrigatioRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Water scarcity is a pressing issue in India, where the country has 18% of the world’s population but only 4% of its freshwater resources. Agriculture is the largest consumer of this limited water supply, emphasizing the need for efficient irrigation methods. Micro-irrigation, which includes techniques like drip and sprinkler irrigation, offers a promising solution to this challenge.
Body
Benefits of Micro-Irrigation
Limitations of Micro-Irrigation
Conclusion
Micro-irrigation has significant potential to alleviate India’s water crisis, especially in water-scarce regions. However, it should be part of a broader strategy that includes water conservation, improved water storage, and a shift in cropping patterns to maximize its effectiveness.
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