Irrigation

In areas where rainfall is not consistent, irrigation becomes a vital part of farming. From age-old canal networks to the new high-tech drip systems, irrigation has come a long way. It is now among the key drivers behind healthier crops, better harvests, and stronger food security. Read on to learn more.

1.0What is Irrigation?

So, what is irrigation?

Irrigation is the practice of giving crops water right when they need it. Think of it as a helping hand that ensures your crops remain healthy, grow properly, and produce good yields. You can also mix nutrients with the water to feed the plants during irrigation.

The water for irrigation can come from wells, tube-wells, ponds, canals, lakes, and even large dams. So, even if there is a dry spell, the farmers can keep their lands green.

The interesting and complicated part is that not all crops need the same amount of water. Depending on the soil or season, they have different requirements. For example, crops that grow in summer need more water than those grown in winter because the temperature is hotter and we have higher evaporation. Similarly, clay soil needs less frequent irrigation than sandy soil. It is all about finding the right balance!

2.0Types of Irrigation

• Surface Irrigation: Even though this is the oldest method, it still remains one of the most widely used. In this, water flows naturally over the surface of the field. Furrow irrigation is a type of surface irrigation in which there are shallow trenches between the crops, so that the water is directed straight to the roots.
• Sprinkler Irrigation: Water is sprayed across the field through high-pressure sprinklers, much like rainfall. It’s especially useful in areas with uneven terrain or soils that don't retain water well.
• Drip Irrigation: Also known as micro-irrigation, this system slowly delivers water drop by drop right at the plant’s root zone. It's highly water-efficient and perfect for arid regions or areas facing water scarcity.
• Centre Pivot Irrigation: A rotating sprinkler system moves in a circular path across the field, ensuring even coverage. Commonly seen on large commercial farms, it works well on flat, open land.
• Sub-Irrigation: Here, the water table is artificially raised, allowing moisture to seep upward into the soil where roots can access it. This method is typically used in controlled environments like greenhouses.
• Manual Irrigation: Involves using simple tools like watering cans or buckets to supply water directly to the plants. Though labour-intensive, it’s suitable for small-scale farming or home gardens where modern equipment isn’t available.Localised Irrigation: Water is delivered at low pressure through a network of pipes, targeting the base of each plant. This method reduces water waste and is ideal for orchards and vineyards.

3.0Methods of Irrigation

Irrigation techniques fall into two broad categories—traditional and modern. Both methods of irrigation have their own strengths, limitations, and suitability based on the type of land, crop, and water availability.

4.0Importance of Irrigation in Agriculture

Irrigation plays a vital role in supporting farming, especially in regions where rainfall is either unpredictable or scarce. Let’s take a look at the importance of irrigation:

• Overcomes Rainfall Uncertainty: In many areas, farming depends heavily on the monsoon. But when rains are delayed or too little, crops suffer, sometimes leading to droughts or even famines. Irrigation in agriculture provides a reliable water source, helping crops thrive even during dry spells.
• Boosts Productivity: Irrigated fields tend to be far more productive than rain-fed ones. Consistent moisture helps plants grow better, improving both the quantity and quality of the harvest.
• Supports Multiple Cropping: India’s climate allows for farming throughout the year, but limited rainfall restricts most regions to a single growing season. With proper irrigation, farmers can grow two or even three crops annually, making better use of their land.
• Brings Unused Land into Farming: Previously uncultivated or fallow land can be brought under agriculture with access to irrigation. This helps expand cultivable land and increases food production.
• Stabilises Yields: Irrigation reduces the risks associated with climate and weather variations. With a steady water supply, output becomes more predictable, ensuring better food security and economic stability for farmers.
• Improves Farmer Incomes: More reliable and frequent harvests directly translate into better earnings for farmers. Irrigation also encourages the cultivation of cash crops, which have higher market value.
• Must Be Managed Wisely: While irrigation is essential, it must be used judiciously. Over-irrigation can be harmful as it causes waterlogging, disrupts seed germination, increases soil salinity, and weakens plant roots. The key lies in using the right irrigation method for the soil and crop type to avoid wastage and ensure sustainable farming.