Q13. What are the major challenges faced by the Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management.

Approach

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Introduction

Irrigation is the practice of applying controlled amounts of water to land to help grow crops, landscape plants, and lawns. It helps to grow agricultural crops and revegetate disturbed soils in dry areas and during periods of less than average rainfall. Irrigated area accounts for nearly 48.8 per cent of the 140 million hectare (mha) of agricultural land in India, the remaining 51.2 percent is rainfed.

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The Indian irrigation system faces several major challenges, including:

  • Water Scarcity: Many regions experience over-extraction of groundwater, leading to declining water tables. For example: States like Punjab and Haryana have seen a depletion in their groundwater table. 
  • Inefficiency: Traditional irrigation methods (like flood irrigation) waste water. Distribution systems often suffer from leaks and inefficiencies.
  • Climate Change: Altered rainfall patterns and extreme weather events affect water availability and crop yields. For instance, this year, ElNino has impacted rainfed irrigation fields and reduced their yields. 
  • Salinity and Soil Degradation: Overirrigation can lead to soil salinization, reducing fertility and can lead to land degradation.
  • Interstate Water Disputes: Like between Haryana and Punjab or between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. 
  • High initial investment: According to a study by ICAR, about 55 % nonadopters of the system perceived that Microirrigation required high initial investment.

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Measures Taken by the Government

  • Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY): Launched to enhance irrigation coverage through various means, including micro-irrigation.
  • MicroIrrigation Initiatives: Promoting drip and sprinkler irrigation to conserve water and increase efficiency.
  • National Water Policy: Emphasizes integrated water resource management to ensure sustainable usage.
  • Digital Initiatives: Use of technology like remote sensing and GIS for better planning and management of irrigation resources.
  • Rainfed area development program: Focuses on Integrated Farming System (IFS) for enhancing productivity and minimizing risks associated with climatic variabilities.

Conclusion

With only 2.4% of the world’s landmass and 4% of its water resources, India’s irrigation systems are critical in maximizing agricultural productivity and ensuring food security. Sustainable management practices are essential to address the disparity between water availability and the growing population’s demands, necessitating innovative irrigation approaches that prioritize water conservation and efficiency.

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