Question

Artificial application of water to the soil for the purpose of crop production is called:
1.  drip irrigation
2. flow irrigation
3. irrigation 
4. none of these

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : irrigation 

The Correct Answer is "Irrigation".

• Irrigation is the process of applying water to the crops artificially to fulfill their water requirements.
• Nutrients may also be provided to the crops through irrigation.
• The various sources of water for irrigation are wells, ponds, lakes, canals, tube-wells, and even dams. Irrigation offers moisture required for growth and development, germination, and other related functions.
• The frequency, rate, amount, and time of irrigation are different for different crops and also vary according to the types of soil and seasons. For example, summer crops require a higher amount of water as compared to winter crops.

• Types of Irrigation :
• There are different types of irrigation practiced for improving crop yield. These types of irrigation systems are practiced based on the different types of soils, climates, crops, and resources. The main types of irrigation followed by farmers include:
  • Surface Irrigation :
    • In this system, no irrigation pump is involved. Here, water is distributed across the land by gravity.
  • Localized Irrigation :
    • In this system, water is applied to each plant through a network of pipes under low pressure.
  • Sprinkler Irrigation :
    • Water is distributed from a central location by overhead high-pressure sprinklers or from sprinklers from the moving platform.
  • Drip Irrigation :
    • In this type, drops of water are delivered near the roots of the plants. This type of irrigation is rarely used as it requires more maintenance.
  • Centre Pivot Irrigation :
    • In this, the water is distributed by a sprinkler system moving in a circular pattern.
  • Sub Irrigation :
    • Water is distributed through a system of pumping stations gates, ditches and canals by raising the water table.
  • Manual Irrigation :
    • This a labor-intensive and time-consuming system of irrigation. Here, the water is distributed through watering cans by manual labor.
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• Importance of Irrigation :
  • Insufficient and uncertain rainfall adversely affects agriculture. Droughts and famines are caused due to low rainfall. Irrigation helps to increase productivity even in low rainfall.
  • The productivity of irrigated land is higher as compared to the un-irrigated land.
  • Irrigation has helped to bring most of the fallow land under cultivation.
  • Irrigation has stabilized the output and yield levels.
  • Irrigation increases the availability of water supply, which in turn increases the income of the farmers.
  • Irrigation should be optimum because even over-irrigation can spoil the crop.