Q. How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis ?
Question from UPSC Mains 2021 GS3 Paper
Model Answer:
Micro-Irrigation: A Solution to India’s Water Crisis
Micro-irrigation, a water-efficient technology, offers significant potential in addressing India’s water crisis. This method can help alleviate water scarcity issues in the following ways:
1. Improved Water Use Efficiency:
• Precision application: Delivers water directly to plant roots
• Reduced evaporation: Minimizes water loss to the atmosphere
• Controlled distribution: Allows for precise water allocation
• Examples: Drip irrigation, micro-sprinklers
2. Enhanced Crop Productivity:
• Optimal moisture levels: Maintains ideal soil conditions
• Nutrient management: Facilitates efficient fertilizer application
• Increased yields: Improves crop quality and quantity
• Examples: Higher cotton yields, better fruit quality
3. Economic Benefits:
• Reduced input costs: Lowers water and fertilizer expenses
• Increased farmer income: Higher yields lead to better returns
• Energy savings: Requires less pumping compared to flood irrigation
4. Water Conservation Impact:
• Agricultural water savings: Up to 30-50% reduction in water use
• Groundwater preservation: Reduces over-extraction of aquifers
• Expansion of irrigated area: Allows cultivation of more land with same water
Despite these advantages, micro-irrigation’s extent in solving India’s water crisis is limited by:
• High initial costs: Installation expenses may deter small farmers
• Maintenance requirements: Regular upkeep needed for optimal performance
• Adoption challenges: Requires farmer education and mindset change
• Regional suitability: May not be ideal for all crop types or soil conditions
To maximize impact, micro-irrigation should be complemented with:
• Rainwater harvesting
• Crop diversification
• Efficient water pricing policies
• Groundwater regulation
Conclusion: Micro-irrigation is a powerful tool in addressing India’s water crisis, offering significant water savings and productivity gains when implemented effectively.
