Question

State two reasons why irrigation is important to a country like India.

Answer 1

Hint:Irrigation refers to controlled supply of water to farms and agriculture through manmade means. In areas where rainfall isn’t sufficient for crops, water is provided through canals, drip systems, pipes and sprinklers.

Complete answer:India has a large population working in the agricultural sector. Approximately 60% of India’s population is dependent on agriculture for livelihood. India grows a variety of crops.

The following are the reasons irrigation is important for a country like India-
1)Most of the country receives rainfall during the months of June to September under the Southwest monsoons. Apart from rainfall being seasonal , the monsoons are unpredictable. Monsoons experience fluctuations in different parts and also have variation from season to season and year to year in its quantity, incidence and duration.

2)India grows water intensive crops like rice and cotton. These crops do not get sufficient water from rainfall and require irrigation for good yield. For example, post the Green revolution, areas of Punjab started growing rice. Rice cultivation in Punjab requires irrigation.

3)Another reason for irrigation is that many of the rivers, especially peninsular rivers, are not perennial and have reduced flow of water during Rabi season. This is why irrigation is important in areas in southern and central India.

Note:Excessive irrigation is detrimental to soil health and environment. Excessive irrigation and poor drainage leads to waterlogging and increase in soil salinity. It also leads to depletion of groundwater.