Irrigation

• Irrigation — supplying water to crops at right time and amount.
• Traditional methods — moat (levees), chain pump, dhekli, rahat (Persian wheel).
• Modern methods — sprinkler, drip irrigation (water-efficient).
• Frequency depends on crop, soil, season.

1. Need — irregular rainfall; critical at flowering/grain filling stages.
2. Traditional — manual/animal operated lifts and channels.
3. Sprinkler — water sprayed like rain; good for uneven land, lawns.
4. Drip — water drops at roots through pipes; saves water, reduces weeds.
5. Water management — avoid over-irrigation (waterlogging, root rot).
6. Real world — drip in vineyards, Israel technology; canals in Punjab wheat belt.

Comparing chain pump and drip irrigation

Chain pump — lifts water from well to field; more labour, some evaporation loss.
Drip — pipe network at soil surface; water directly to roots; ~50% water saving.
Choice: drip preferred in water-scarce regions for fruit crops.

• Over-irrigation causes waterlogging and salinity.
• Misconception: flooding field always best (many crops need controlled water).
• Sprinkler in strong wind — uneven distribution.
• Wasting water in open channels without lining.

• Name two traditional and two modern irrigation methods.
• Why is drip irrigation useful in deserts?
• When is irrigation most critical?

Open the Practice tab for graded questions on Irrigation.