Water is a critical input for successful agriculture. Water may be available to crops naturally through rainfall, or it may be artificially supplied to agricultural fields through human efforts. Irrigation is the process of supplying water to crops through artificial means such as canals, wells, tube-wells, tanks, and so on from sources of water such as rivers, ponds, or underground water. In this article, we will discuss Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems which will be helpful for UPSC exam preparation.

Different Types of Irrigation

Well and Tube Well Irrigation

• Well and Tube Well irrigation is the most widely used irrigation system in India. The first tube well was dug in 1930 in Uttar Pradesh.
• There are currently over 50 lakh tube wells in operation across India. It has made a significant contribution to the success of India's Green Revolution.
• Uttar Pradesh has the most area under well irrigation. It is followed by Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Bihar.
• Tube Well irrigation is the most widely used irrigation system in India.
• There are various types of wells, such as shallow wells, deep wells, tube wells, artesian wells, and so on.
• Water from shallow wells is not always available because the level of water drops during the dry months.
• Deep wells are better for irrigation because their water is available all year.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Well and Tube Well Irrigation

Canal Irrigation

• Canal irrigation is one of the most important sources of water. It accounts for about 24% of total irrigation in the country.
• It is an effective source of irrigation in low-level relief, deep fertile soil, and perennial river areas, which are mostly found in the northern plains.
• Inundation canals and perennial canals are the two types of canal systems.
• Canal irrigation refers to the method of transporting water by gravity from a river, reservoir, and tank via a canal to farmlands.
• The canals appear to have a trapezoidal shape and are made of reinforced concrete, brick masonry, and stone masonry.
• The canals are designed with adequate width and depth to carry enough water flow to the crop fields. Water will be distributed correctly for cultivation from the source point.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Canal Irrigation

Tank Irrigation

• A tank serves as an irrigation storage system and is created by building a small bund of earth or stones across a stream.
• Rainwater can also be collected in these tank reservoirs and used for irrigation.
• Some tanks are constructed partially as dugouts and partially as enclosing bunds.
• Tanks vary in size, but the majority are small and built by individual farmers or groups of farmers.
• Tank irrigation is popular in the peninsular plateau region, which is led by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
• It is also a significant irrigation source in Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Odisha, Kerala, the Bundelkhand region, Rajasthan, and Gujarat.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Tank Irrigation

Micro Irrigation

• Micro-irrigation is a prudent irrigation technology that is being promoted both nationally and internationally in order to achieve higher cropping intensity and irrigation intensity through more focused water application to crops.
• Micro irrigation is defined as the application of a small volume of water at a low pressure and frequency.
• Micro-irrigation can boost yields while reducing water, fertiliser, and labour requirements.
• The system includes a large network of pipes that operate at low pressure.
• Drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, micro-sprinkler, porous pipe system, rain gun, are other systems of micro irrigation which are available, with drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation being the most common.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Micro Irrigation

Drip Irrigation

• Drip irrigation, also known as 'trickle irrigation,' is a method of applying the required amount of water directly to the root zones of plants at regular intervals via drippers or emitters.
• Drip irrigation is the most effective and can be used on a variety of crops, particularly vegetables, orchard crops, flowers, and plantation crops.
• Tree crops occupy the greatest percentage of the total area under drip irrigation in India, followed by vine crops, vegetables, field crops, flowers, and other crops.
• Water is applied near the plant root via emitters or drippers on or below the soil surface at a low rate ranging from 2 to 20 litres per hour in drip irrigation. With frequent irrigation, soil moisture is kept at an optimal level.
• Drip irrigation is the most efficient irrigation method and can be used on a wide range of crops, particularly vegetables, orchard crops, flowers, and plantation crops.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Drip Irrigation

Sprinkler Irrigation

• In the sprinkler irrigation technique, water is sprinkled into the air and allowed to fall on the ground surface as if it were rain. The spray is created by forcing water through small orifices or nozzles.
• It is suitable for the majority of row, field, and tree crops. Water can be sprayed on top of or beneath the crop canopy.
• Sprinkler irrigation will not be appropriate if the site is known to be windy most of the time.
• Sprinklers are suitable for most soil types, but they work best in sandy soil. These are suitable for watering lawns, gardens, and agricultural fields.
• Except for paddy and jute, almost all crops in agriculture are suitable for sprinkler irrigation systems.
• Dry crops, vegetables, flowering crops, orchards, and plantation crops such as tea and coffee are all suitable and can be irrigated using sprinkler irrigation techniques.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Sprinkler Irrigation

Furrow Irrigation

• Furrow irrigation involves digging trenches or "furrows" between crop rows in a field.
• Farmers direct water down the furrows (often using only gravity), and it seeps vertically and horizontally to replenish the soil reservoir. The flow to each furrow is individually controlled.
• Furrow irrigation is ideal for broad-acre row crops like cotton, corn, and sugar cane. It is also used in the horticultural industries of citrus fruits and tomatoes.
• Furrow irrigation is one of the oldest irrigation methods because it is inexpensive and low-tech, making it particularly appealing in developing countries or areas where mechanised spray irrigation is unavailable or impractical.
• While furrow irrigation may not be the "hottest" new way to water crops, it is one of the most cost-effective and low-tech options for farmers, which is why millions continue to use it.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Furrow Irrigation

Surge Irrigation

• Surge irrigation is the intermittent application of water to improve the uniformity of distribution along a furrow.
• It operates on the premise that dry soil absorbs water faster than wet soil. When soil becomes wet, it seals due to the consolidation of soil particles at the surface.
• When water is reintroduced into a wet furrow, the wetting front moves quickly past the wetting zone and into dry soil. Dry soil slows progress at the wetting interface.
• This phenomenon enables faster advancement through the field with less deep percolation and improved application uniformity.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Surge Irrigation

Sub Irrigation or Seepage Irrigation

• Watering from below the root zone, also known as seepage irrigation, is a method of delivering water to plants by controlling the level of the water.
• It is an effective method of water conservation with low labour requirements once the system is installed.
• Sub-irrigation in agricultural fields is accomplished by causing the water table to rise or fall.
• However, unlike flood or furrow irrigation systems, sub-irrigation does not flood the field up to the ground level.
• As a result, sub-irrigation is not commonly found in arid or semi-arid systems because sufficient moisture is required to germinate seeds at the surface level.
• In fact, areas that require high levels of drainage to be farmable are ideal candidates for a sub-irrigation system because the same network of drainage pipes and tiles that are installed to move excess water out of the ground can also be repurposed to add water when plant growth necessitates irrigation.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Sub Irrigation or Seepage Irrigation

Problems Associated with Irrigation

• Expensive micro irrigation: Most adopters are wealthy farmers, and poor farmers cannot afford it.
  • This problem is being addressed by various agencies by developing low-cost systems.
  • International Development Enterprises (IDE), an NGO, is actively working in Maharashtra and Gujarat to innovate low-cost micro irrigation systems and raise awareness among poor farmers.
• Delay in project completion: The biggest issue in our major and medium irrigation sectors has been the tendency to start more and more new projects, resulting in a lack of project prolification since the First Five Year Plan.
  • There is also a lag in utilising existing potential. Most projects have experienced delays in the construction of field channels and water courses, as well as land levelling and shaping.
• Inter-state Water Disputes: In India, irrigation is a state subject. Water resource development is thus planned by states individually, taking into account their own needs and requirements.
  • All major rivers, however, have an interstate character. As a result, there are differences between states in terms of water storage, priorities, and use.
  • Inter-state rivalries over water supply distribution are exacerbated by a narrow regional outlook.
• Regional disparities in irrigation development: According to the Ninth Five Year Plan Document, water resource development in the North Eastern region through major, medium, and minor schemes is only 28.6 percent, whereas it is 95.3 percent in the Northern region. This demonstrates a wide regional variation in irrigation facility development.
• Water logging and salinity: The introduction of irrigation has resulted in water logging and salinity in some states.
  • Water logging affected approximately 2.46 million hectares in irrigated commands, according to a working group formed by the Ministry of Water Resources in 1991.
  • The working group also estimated that salinity/alkalinity had affected 3.30 million hectares in irrigated commands.
• Increasing irrigation cost: From the first five-year plan to the tenth five-year plan, the cost of providing irrigation has risen.
• Water table decline: There has been a steady decline in water table in several parts of the country in recent years, particularly in the western dry region, due to over-exploitation of ground water and insufficient recharge from rainwater.
• Energy crisis in rural and urban India caused by power outages and unplanned interruptions: This problem can be solved by combining drip irrigation with a solar panel system, which is the best option for off-grid farmers.

Irrigation Schemes in India

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana

• The scheme, which was launched in 2015 with the slogan "Har Khet Ko Paani," aims to provide end-to-end solutions in the irrigation supply chain (water sources, distribution network, and farm-level applications).
• The scheme focuses on creating sources of assured irrigation and protective irrigation by harnessing rainwater at the micro-level via 'Jal Sanchay' and 'Jal Sinchan.'
• "Per Drop More Crop" is one of the initiative's most important components. It focuses on micro-irrigation systems (sprinklers, drippers, pivots, rain guns, etc.) to promote precision farming by making water available to crops' root zones in a targeted manner.

Micro Irrigation Fund

• The government has established a dedicated Micro Irrigation Fund in collaboration with NABARD.
• This fund aims to help states mobilise resources to expand the country's coverage of micro irrigation.

Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP)

• The Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP) is an initiative that aims to increase agricultural productivity in rain-fed areas in a sustainable manner by implementing appropriate farming system-based approaches.

Mission Kakatiya

• Mission Kakatiya is a flagship programme of the Telangana government aimed at restoring minor irrigation sources of water such as ponds and tanks.
• The goal is to improve the development of minor irrigation infrastructure, strengthen community-based irrigation management in a decentralized manner, and implement a comprehensive programme for tank and water source restoration in order to effectively utilise the 265 TM of water allocated for minor irrigation in the Godavari and Krishna river basins.
• Gram Sabhas were held, and the proposed plans were discussed with the villagers. Farmers were encouraged to cooperate and were advised to deposit the silt for field preparation.
• Several district-level coordination committees were formed. The emphasis was on improving service delivery times.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Irrigation Schemes in India

Progress of Irrigation Under Five-Year Plans

• Five-year plans have made extensive arrangements for expanding the irrigation area.
• At the time of independence, approximately 19% of India's agricultural land was under irrigation, compared to 41% in Pakistan, 36% in Israel, 52% in Japan, and nearly 100% in Egypt.
• During the planning period, emphasis was placed on expanding irrigation facilities across the country.
• As a result, by the end of 1997-98, 86.6 million hectares of land had been irrigated, accounting for approximately 46.5 percent of the country's total cultivable area (186 million hectares).
• The extent of irrigation coverage in Punjab (73%) is the highest among all states, followed by Haryana (50%) and Rajasthan (50%).
• In the meantime, a number of multi-purpose river projects have been completed as part of the plans for extensive use of river water for irrigation and other purposes.
• In India, five-year plans have made extensive provisions for the development of minor irrigation projects such as wells, tanks, tube wells, pump sets, and so on, in order to extend irrigation facilities to small and marginal farmers.
• The Command Area Development Programme was launched in 1974-75 in order to maximize irrigation potential. Its primary goal is to close the gap between actual irrigation potential and utilization.
• This scheme was also implemented in order to increase agricultural production from irrigated commands.
• Under the auspices of both the Central and State governments, the cumulative irrigation potential has made significant progress under the Five Year Plans.
• The cumulative irrigation potential target for the Ninth Year Plan is set at 106.4 million hectares, and the cumulative utilization target is set at 94.4 million hectares, with actual realization at the end of the Ninth Plan being 94.7 million hectares and 84.7 million hectares, respectively.
• Again, at the end of the Tenth Plan, total irrigation potential in the country had increased to 102.8 million hectares, with cumulative utilization of this potential at only 87.2 million hectares. The potential created thus far is estimated to be 73.5 percent of the country's total irrigation potential.
• Again, the country's total irrigation potential has increased from 81.1 million hectares in 1991-92 to 108.2 million hectares in March 2011.
• The rate of creation of additional irrigation potential slowed dramatically from an average of about 3% per year from 1950-51 to 1989-90 to 1.25%, 1.7%, and 1.8% per year during the Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Plan periods, respectively.
• The rate of growth in utilization of created potential fell to 1.0 percent per year during the Ninth Plan period and then increased to 1.5 percent per year during the Tenth Plan period.

Environmental Effects of Irrigation

Waterlogging and Salinization

• On irrigated land, salinization is the leading cause of land loss for production and is one of the most common negative environmental effects of irrigation.
• Surface irrigation is frequently associated with waterlogging and soil salinization.
• Waterlogging is caused primarily by poor drainage and over-irrigation, and to a lesser extent by seepage from canals and ditches.
• Waterlogging concentrates salts drawn up from deeper in the soil profile in the rooting zone of plants.

Water-borne and Aquatic Diseases

• Irrigation is frequently associated with water-borne or water-related diseases.
• Malaria, whose vectors proliferate in irrigation waters, is one of the diseases most directly linked to irrigation.
• Other health risks associated with irrigation include increased agrochemical use, deterioration of water quality, and increased population pressure in the area.

Dam and Reservoir Environmental Impact

• Damming the river and creating a lake-like environment has a significant impact on the hydrology and limnology of the river system.
• The timing of flow, the quality, quantity, and use of water, aquatic biota, and sedimentation in the river basin all undergo dramatic changes.
• While there are direct environmental impacts associated with dam construction (for example, dust, erosion, borrow, and disposal issues), the greatest impacts result from water impoundment, flooding of land to form the reservoir, and alteration of water flow downstream.

Irrigation Schemes' Socioeconomic Effects

• The most significant issue arising from large dam construction is the resettlement of people displaced by flooding of land and homes.
• This can be especially disruptive to communities, and insensitive project development would cause unnecessary problems due to inadequate compensation for the affected population.
• Human migration and displacement are correlated with a breakdown in community infrastructure, which causes social unrest and may contribute to malnutrition.

*For detailed notes of this topic, check this link Environmental Effects of Irrigation

Conclusion

Agriculture is important to the Indian economy, and irrigation is a driving force behind agricultural development. Due to the uncertainty of rainfall in India, today's reliance on irrigation has increased. Irrigation aids in the growth of agricultural crops, the preservation of landscapes, and the revegetation of disturbed soils in dry areas and during periods of below-average rainfall. Irrigation also serves other purposes in crop production, such as frost protection, weed suppression in grain fields, and soil consolidation prevention.

FAQs

Q1: What are the major types of irrigation systems used in India?

Q2: How does drip irrigation work?

Q3: What is the importance of sprinkler irrigation?

Q4: Why is canal irrigation widely used in India?

Q5: What are the benefits of modern irrigation techniques?

MCQs

1. Which irrigation system is known for delivering water directly to plant roots?

A) Sprinkler irrigation

B) Drip irrigation

C) Surface irrigation

D) Canal irrigation

2. Which irrigation method mimics natural rainfall?

A) Drip irrigation

B) Sprinkler irrigation

C) Subsurface irrigation

D) Canal irrigation

3. What is the primary source of water in canal irrigation systems?

A) Groundwater

B) Rainwater

C) Rivers and reservoirs

D) Desalinated water

4. Which irrigation method is most effective in regions with water scarcity?

A) Surface irrigation

B) Drip irrigation

C) Canal irrigation

D) Sprinkler irrigation

5. Which of the following is a traditional irrigation method?

A) Drip irrigation

B) Canal irrigation

C) Sprinkler irrigation

D) Subsurface irrigation

GS Mains Questions and Model Answers

Q1. Examine the significance of drip irrigation in addressing water scarcity in agriculture.

Answer: Drip irrigation plays a critical role in addressing water scarcity by enhancing water-use efficiency in agriculture. In this method, water is delivered directly to the plant roots through a network of pipes and emitters, significantly reducing water loss through evaporation and runoff. Drip irrigation is particularly effective in arid and semi-arid regions where water is scarce, ensuring optimal use of available water resources. It also prevents soil erosion and minimizes weed growth, thereby improving crop productivity. Governments in India have promoted drip irrigation through schemes like Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) to encourage farmers to adopt this technology. In summary, drip irrigation is vital for sustainable agriculture, helping farmers maintain yields while conserving water.

Q2. Discuss the impact of canal irrigation on agricultural productivity in India.

Answer: Canal irrigation has historically played a significant role in improving agricultural productivity in India by making water available to large areas of farmland. It draws water from rivers or reservoirs and channels it through a network of canals to the fields. Canal irrigation ensures a steady water supply, particularly in regions that depend heavily on seasonal rainfall. It facilitates the cultivation of water-intensive crops such as rice and sugarcane, which contribute substantially to India’s agricultural output. However, challenges like water wastage, siltation, and uneven distribution reduce its efficiency. Addressing these challenges through proper management and maintenance can further enhance the productivity of canal irrigation systems.

Q3. Analyze the advantages and limitations of sprinkler irrigation in India.

Answer: Sprinkler irrigation offers several advantages, including water conservation, uniform water distribution, and the ability to irrigate uneven terrains. It reduces water wastage and soil erosion compared to surface irrigation, promoting healthier crop growth. However, the initial installation cost of sprinkler systems can be high, making it less accessible to small farmers. Additionally, sprinkler irrigation is less effective in regions with high wind speeds, as water distribution can be uneven. Despite these limitations, with appropriate government support and technological improvements, sprinkler irrigation can be a valuable tool for sustainable agriculture in India.

Previous Year Questions on  Different Types of Irrigation and Irrigation Systems

1. UPSC CSE 2021

Question. Evaluate the importance of modern irrigation systems in improving agricultural productivity in India.

Answer: Modern irrigation systems such as drip and sprinkler irrigation have revolutionized agriculture in India by increasing water-use efficiency and ensuring better crop yields. Drip irrigation minimizes water loss by delivering water directly to the plant roots, while sprinkler irrigation mimics natural rainfall, providing uniform water distribution. These systems have become essential in regions with limited water availability, reducing dependency on erratic monsoons. Additionally, modern irrigation helps prevent soil erosion, reduces labor costs, and supports the cultivation of high-value crops. Despite challenges like high installation costs and maintenance, government initiatives like PMKSY are promoting their adoption. The integration of modern irrigation techniques is crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural growth and food security.

2. UPSC CSE 2022

Question. How has the adoption of micro-irrigation systems impacted water management in India?

Answer: The adoption of micro-irrigation systems, including drip and sprinkler irrigation, has significantly improved water management in India. These systems reduce water wastage by applying water directly to the root zones or in controlled sprays, making them highly efficient compared to traditional methods. Micro-irrigation has allowed farmers to cultivate crops in water-scarce regions, optimizing resource use and enhancing productivity. Moreover, it helps prevent waterlogging and soil erosion, promoting sustainable farming practices. Government programs like PMKSY have further encouraged farmers to adopt these systems, improving water-use efficiency and reducing groundwater depletion. In conclusion, micro-irrigation is transforming water management in Indian agriculture, fostering sustainable practices and ensuring long-term agricultural growth.