The key to smart agriculture is an efficient irrigation system that ensures water resource conservation. As we know, climate change is a big issue that has affected water resources globally. Due to these changing weather conditions, water requirements have increased in agriculture. Another factor to consider is population.
The increase in population has increased the demand for food, and it has affected the food system globally. When discussing sustainable agricultural practices, we are left with the irrigation methods that can be optimized to achieve sustainable agriculture. In this article, we will discuss the innovative options for sustainable irrigation.
Smart Irrigation: The Power of Data
Smart Irrigation systems will include technology such as the Internet of Things and sensors in the agriculture field. The technological devices are used to gather real-time data from the soil, weather, and crops. We can monitor the soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health with the help of these devices and can regulate the amount of water in the field.
This is called a data-driven approach. It focuses on water conservation restricts over-irrigation and indirectly protects the soil from degradation and waterlogging. The Indian Govt also focuses on using satellite technology and remote sensing to manage water in the agricultural land.
The Crop Insurance Schemes like PMFBY- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana use the concept of satellite imagery to check crop health and water levels. This data driver-based approach helps in identifying regions that require immediate irrigation attention.
Drip Irrigation: Precision Water Delivery
When we consider the methods for water efficiency in agriculture, Drip irrigation comes first. In the Drip irrigation method, the water is given directly to the roots of the plants. It reduces the wastage of water and in this method, no water evaporation. Drip irrigation comes with a tailored approach in which water requirements can be set as per the requirements of different crops. This method reduces the weed growth in the field.
Subsurface Drip Irrigation: Below the Surface
The next level of Drip Irrigation is Subsurface drip irrigation. Subsurface drip irrigation uses the concept of giving water to the roots of the plants with the help of pipes or tubes. This technique is more efficient and it controls the weed growth. The water evaporation is minimal in Subsurface drip irrigation. It also stops water connection with leaves, which supports the reduction of foliar diseases.
Micro-Irrigation Systems: A Paradigm Shift
The Indian govt is moving towards the micro-irrigation systems. Drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation are the alternatives to historical flood irrigation. These two methods of irrigation allow the water to go to the roots of the plant directly and the wastage of water is reduced.
The govt is offering the scheme- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana/ PMKSY. PMKSY uses the concept of micro-irrigation techniques. These techniques are proven to be best for agriculture, they reduce water consumption and increase the yield on the land.
Rainwater Harvesting: Nature’s Bounty
Rainwater harvesting is one of the ways to conserve water that can supplement traditional irrigation methods. The water stored during the rainy season can be used for irrigation later on. The rainwater can be harvested from the roof of the house or other surfaces. Rainwater harvesting reduces the dependency on groundwater. It also helps in preserving our water resources for a longer time. Rainwater harvesting is the cheaper way to continue the supply of water in dry seasons.
Solar-Powered Pumps: Green Energy for Irrigation
In the agriculture field, pumps are used for the water supply. We can replace the diesel or electric pumps with the solar power pump. It will reduce the carbon emissions and also the cost is reduced in solar power pumps. The solar-powered pump comes with a one-time cost and these costs are given by the govt in the form of subsidies. The farmers do need not to pay electricity bills anymore.
The farmer will help the nation by reducing the carbon footprint from agricultural activities. The Indian Govt is running schemes like Kisan Urja Suraksha Evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan (KUSUM) to help the farmers with solar power pump installation and costs. Farmers are also given incentives to motivate them for the switch towards the green energy.
Watershed Development: A Holistic Approach
Indian govt also focuses on watershed development projects. These projects have a focus on soil conservation and water conservation. It will also focus on the reuse of water and regeneration of water. These are called as Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP). This also includes afforestation and rainwater harvesting. Watersheds must be treated as interconnected systems. These projects elevate the problem of water scarcity and degradation. It will benefit farmers and rural communities.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Reviving Water Bodies
A campaign is run in India known as Jal Shakti Abhiyan. It focuses on water conservation. It aims to revive traditional water sources like ponds and lakes. The focus is on enhancing groundwater recharge and developing additional water sources for irrigation. The project will use the pros of traditional methods and join them with modern techniques.
Jal Shakti Abhiyan has started with the purpose of catching the rain. The project is ongoing and the govt has special invention areas for the Jal Shakti Abhiyan.
- Setting Up of Jal Shakti Kendras
- Enumeration, Making Inventory
- GIS Mapping of all Water Bodies
- Preparations of Scientific Water Conservation Plan
- Krishi Vigyan Kendra Melas
- Urban wastewater Reuse
- Springshed Management
FAQ
What is sustainable agriculture in India?
Sustainable agriculture is those that focus on producing long-term crops with minimal effects on the environment.
What are the three main goals of sustainable agriculture?
- Environmental Health
- Economic Profitability
- Social Equity