UPSC Exams
Latest Update
Coaching
UPSC Current Affairs
Syllabus
UPSC Notes
Previous Year Papers
Mock Tests
UPSC Editorial
Bilateral Ties
Books
Government Schemes
Topics
Irrigation In India: Meaning, Types, Methods, Significance And More For UPSC CSE Exam!
Download As PDFIMPORTANT LINKS
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land to assist in the production of crops. Irrigation is used to supplement rainfall in areas where rainfall is not adequate to support crop production. Irrigation allows farmers to grow crops in arid regions that would otherwise be unsuitable for agriculture.
This article is important for students preparing for the UPSC CSE Exam. If you want extra help to study well for the exam, you can join UPSC Coaching. It will make your studying easier.
What is Irrigation?
Irrigation is the process of supplying water to land or crops to help growth. It is usually used in areas with a shortage of rainfall. Irrigation works by supplying the roots of plants with water so they can grow. There are various methods of irrigation that range from low-tech traditional approaches to high-tech modern irrigation. Irrigation allows the cultivation of crops, maintenance of landscapes, and reclamation of disturbed soils in dry areas and during periods of less than-average rainfall.
Types of Irrigation
There are three main types of irrigation:
- Surface irrigation - water is distributed over and allowed to flow along the ground through gravity flow. Common types are furrow, border strip, and basin irrigation.
- Sprinkler irrigation - water is sprayed into the air and allowed to fall on the ground surface, somewhat resembling rainfall. Common types are center pivot, lateral move, traveling gun, big gun, and permanent set sprinklers.
- Drip irrigation - water flows through a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters directly to the roots of the plants. Some common types are subsurface drip and porous pipe.
Traditional Methods of Irrigation
Before modern irrigation technology was developed, farmers devised ways to direct water from rivers, lakes, and wells to their fields.
- Flood irrigation - One of the simplest methods, water is released from an upstream location and allowed to flow over agricultural lands, guided by levees, dikes, and small channels. Water is not controlled once released.
- Canal irrigation - Water is distributed through a network of canals to the crops. Farmers can control water by using canal gates and valves.
- Pitcher irrigation - Individual pitchers are used to carry water from wells or canals by hand to pour on each plant.
- Shadoof irrigation - A lever system with a weight at one end is used to lift water from a river or well in a bucket at the other end, which is then emptied by hand.
- Qanat irrigation - An ancient system of angled tunnels tapped into hillsides collect groundwater, which is then guided downhill through the tunnels to distribution canals.
Modern Methods of Irrigation
New technology has allowed the development of precise irrigation methods that conserve water and enhance productivity.
- Drip irrigation - A network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters deliver water directly to plant roots through narrow tubes. This prevents losses from wind, runoff, evaporation, and overwatering.
- Center pivot irrigation - A long water pipe rotates around a central pivot, and sprinklers along its length spray water. The pipe system moves in a circular pattern through the field.
- Lateral move irrigation - An irrigation system that moves in a straight line rather than a pivot. It consists of a long lateral water pipe with sprinklers that is pulled across fields.
- Sub-irrigation - Water is delivered in pipes or tile drainage buried below the soil surface so water moves upward through the soil. It helps leach salts down below root zones.
- Manual irrigation - Hand-moved pipe or hose system where sprinklers are temporarily positioned in place and water dispensed. Allows for targeted application.
Importance of Irrigation
Irrigation is an essential practice in agriculture and landscape maintenance. Some important benefits of irrigation include:
- Allows crop production in arid regions - Irrigation enables farming in dry areas that would otherwise be unsuitable for agriculture.
- Higher crop yields - Watering crops supplement rainfall, leading to higher yields. Irrigation greatly increases productivity per acre.
- Supports food supply - The expansion of irrigated land enables greater food production critical to feeding the world's growing population.
- Drought mitigation - Irrigation can help reduce the severity of drought by supplying water to crops and pastures when rainfall is inadequate.
- Nutrient leaching - Irrigation water moving through the soil profile helps leach salts down through the root zone.
Conclusion
In summary, irrigation is a critical agricultural practice that facilitates crop production in dry regions by supplying the water needs of plants. Both traditional and modern methods provide the supplemental water required to sustain global food production. Irrigation enables expanded farming crucial to supporting the world's food demands.
When you're getting ready for big tests, Testbook has your back with study notes. People trust Testbook because it gives you the best stuff to study. You can take tests, do practice exams, read helpful content, and watch videos about general knowledge and what's happening worldwide. To learn extra about UPSC and UGC NET topics, you only need to get the Testbook App!
Irrigation FAQs
Why is irrigation important in agriculture?
Irrigation is crucial in agriculture as it provides a controlled water supply to crops, ensuring their healthy growth and increased yield. It helps compensate for inadequate rainfall and minimizes the risk of drought-related crop failures.
What are the different methods of irrigation?
Various methods of irrigation include surface irrigation (furrow, basin, and flood irrigation), sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, and sub-surface irrigation. Each method has its own advantages and is suited to different types of crops and soil conditions.
How does drip irrigation conserve water?
Drip irrigation delivers water directly to the roots of plants, minimizing water wastage due to evaporation or runoff. This method uses water more efficiently, reducing overall water consumption while maintaining optimal soil moisture levels.
What are the environmental impacts of improper irrigation practices?
Improper irrigation practices can lead to soil salinization, where excessive water use causes the buildup of salts in the soil, rendering it infertile. Moreover, excessive water extraction from rivers and aquifers can deplete water resources, affecting ecosystems and freshwater availability.
How does modern technology contribute to advanced irrigation systems?
Modern technology has revolutionized irrigation through the development of automated systems, soil moisture sensors, and weather forecasting. These technologies enable farmers to precisely manage water usage, optimizing crop yield and conserving water resources.