Question

Give a reason for the significance of irrigation in
(i) Punjab
(ii) Rajasthan

Answer 1

Hint: The irrigation system in India is one of the most important and extensive systems. This consists of a system of major and minor waterways that derive water from Indian rivers; underground water well systems, tanks, and also rainwater harvesting projects for agricultural activities. Out of this groundwater system is the largest.

Complete answer: Punjab- The need for irrigation in Punjab is greater as this is chiefly an agricultural region. The total surface area of Punjab is only 1.4% of the total area of India, but it yields approximately 12% of the cereals produced in the country. The major yielded crop is wheat. Punjab is a large producer of crops like cotton, rice, pearl millet, maize, sugarcane, barley and fruits. Amid the fodder crops are Jowar and bajra. With sufficient supply of water and proper irrigation methods, crops like rice and wheat can have a high production rate throughout. Typically the canal system is adopted here for irrigation.
Rajasthan- Rajasthan’s economy is principally agricultural and pastoral. Wheat and barley are grown over large areas, so are sugarcane, oilseeds, and pulses. The state’s cash crops are cotton and tobacco. Rajasthan is one of the leading producers of edible oils in India and the second-leading producer of oilseeds. However, Rajasthan falls under a scanty rainfall region. Rajasthan receives low and erratic rainfalls and thus is disposed to droughts. There is a lack of water because of the unavailability of natural water sources. Due to this irrigation is significant in Rajasthan.

Note: The most common technique of irrigation in Rajasthan and Punjab is canal irrigation. Irrigation canals are the key channels that bring irrigation water from a water source to the areas to be irrigated. They can be lined with concrete, brick, stone, or a flexible film to avoid leakage and erosion.