Question

Give a detailed account on irrigation.

Answer 1

1. Irrigation:
   a. The supply of water to crops at regular intervals is called irrigation.
   b. Source of irrigation – wells, tube wells, ponds, lakes, rivers, dams, and canals.
   
2. Traditional Methods:
   a. Irrigation is done manually.
   b. Here, a farmer pulls out water from wells or canals by himself or using cattle and carries it to farming fields.
   c. Pumps used for lifting water from various sources.
   d. Diesel, biogas, electricity, and solar energy are the sources of energy needed to run these pumps.
3. Modern Methods:
   a. It helps to overcome the problems that exist in the traditional methods.
   b. It also facilitates the even distribution of moisture in the field.
4. Sprinkler system:
   a. Sprinkles water over the crop and helps in an even distribution of water.
   b. This method is advisable in areas facing water scarcity.
   c. Pump is connected to pipes that generate pressure and water is sprinkled through the fine nozzles of pipes.
5. Drip System:
   a. Here, water is released drop by drop exactly at the root zone using a hose or pipe.
   b. This method is effective in regions where the availability of water is less.