Which of the following is the largest contributor to irrigation in India?

The correct answer is Tube wells and canals.

Key Points

• Tube wells and canals account for the largest share of irrigation in India, contributing significantly to agricultural productivity.
• Canals are prominent irrigation sources in areas like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh due to their extensive network and water availability.
• Tube wells rely on groundwater extraction, making them widely used in regions with low surface water availability, such as Rajasthan and parts of Maharashtra.
• The Green Revolution further promoted the use of tube wells and canals, especially in northern India, to ensure reliable water supply for high-yield crops.
• Together, tube wells and canals irrigate a significant portion of India's agricultural land, ensuring food security for the growing population.

Additional Information

• Canal Irrigation:
  • Canals are artificial waterways that distribute water from rivers or reservoirs to agricultural fields.
  • They are particularly effective in regions with flat terrain and abundant surface water sources.
  • India has an extensive canal network, with major projects like the Indira Gandhi Canal in Rajasthan.
• Tube Wells:
  • Tube wells are deep bore wells equipped with pumps to extract groundwater for irrigation.
  • They are widely used in areas where surface water sources are scarce or unreliable.
  • Excessive use of tube wells has led to groundwater depletion in certain regions, necessitating sustainable practices.
• Rainwater Harvesting:
  • Rainwater harvesting involves collecting and storing rainwater for irrigation and other purposes.
  • Though beneficial, it is a secondary source of irrigation compared to tube wells and canals in India.
• Tank Irrigation:
  • Tanks are small water reservoirs used primarily in southern states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
  • They provide water for irrigation during dry seasons but have limited coverage compared to tube wells and canals.