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Introduction:

India’s irrigation system is crucial for agricultural productivity, but it faces several challenges that hinder its efficiency and sustainability. Addressing these issues is vital to ensure water availability for agriculture and to improve crop yields.

Major Challenges Faced by Indian Irrigation System:

  1. Overexploitation of Groundwater: More than 60% of irrigation in India relies on groundwater, leading to over-extraction and depletion of water tables, especially in states like Punjab and Haryana.
  2. Inefficient Water Use: Flood irrigation, the most common method, leads to significant water wastage due to seepage, evaporation, and unregulated usage.
  3. Aging Infrastructure: Many irrigation canals and dams are decades old and suffer from poor maintenance, causing water losses.
  4. Regional Disparities: Some regions, like northwest India, are over-irrigated, while others, such as eastern India, remain underdeveloped in terms of irrigation infrastructure.
  5. Climate Change: Irregular rainfall patterns and droughts due to climate change strain existing irrigation systems, increasing dependency on groundwater.

Government Measures for Efficient Irrigation Management:

  1. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Aims to achieve “Har Khet Ko Pani” (water for every field) by expanding irrigation infrastructure and promoting efficient water use.
  2. Per Drop More Crop: A component of PMKSY, this program promotes micro-irrigation technologies like drip and sprinkler systems to enhance water-use efficiency.
  3. Command Area Development (CAD): Focuses on improving water delivery systems and minimizing water losses in canal irrigation.
  4. Atal Bhujal Yojana: A groundwater management scheme aimed at improving groundwater recharge and sustainable usage in water-stressed regions.
  5. National Water Mission: Part of India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change, it focuses on increasing water-use efficiency by 20% through technology and innovation.

Conclusion:

Efficient irrigation management is critical for India’s agricultural sustainability. Through schemes like PMKSY and Atal Bhujal Yojana, the government is addressing the challenges of over-reliance on groundwater and inefficient water use, but continued investment and innovation are essential for long-term success.

Legacy Editor Changed status to publish October 23, 2024