What are the major challenges faced by Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken by the government for efficient irrigation management. (2024, 15 Marks)

Paper	GS Paper 3
Word Limit	250 words
Syllabus Topic	Different types of irrigation and irrigation systems

Model Answer

Irrigation protects farmers from the uncertain monsoon. Yet a large part of India’s farmland is still rain-fed. India is also the largest user of groundwater in the world. Using water well is now as important as getting more water.

Major Challenges

• Groundwater depletion: Over-pumping in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan, often due to free or cheap power.
• Low efficiency: Flood irrigation wastes water. Canals lose water to seepage.
• Incomplete projects: Many major projects face delays and cost overruns.
• Poor maintenance: Silted canals; tail-end farmers get little water.
• Climate change: Erratic rain and heat raise water demand.
• Water disputes: Inter-state river disputes delay projects.
• Waterlogging and salinity: Over-irrigation damages soil in canal areas.

Government Measures

• PMKSY (2015): Har Khet Ko Pani and Per Drop More Crop (drip and sprinkler).
• AIBP: Funds to finish pending major projects.
• Micro Irrigation Fund: Set up with NABARD for states.
• CADWM: Command Area Development closes the gap between irrigation potential created and used.
• Atal Bhujal Yojana (2019): Community groundwater management in seven states.
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain for water harvesting.
• Participatory management: Water User Associations run local canals.

Way Forward

• Price power and water sensibly; promote solar pumps.
• Shift to less water-hungry crops like millets and pulses.
• Act on the Mihir Shah Committee (2016) idea of a unified National Water Commission.

Conclusion

India must move from building dams to managing water. Efficient irrigation supports farm incomes and SDG 6 on clean water.

Related PYQs

• How and to what extent would micro-irrigation help in solving India’s water crisis ? (2021)
• Suggest measures to improve water storage and irrigation system to make its judicious use under depleting scenario. (2020)
• Explain the factors influencing the decision of the farmers on the selection of high value crops in India. (2025)