State the reasons for the need of irrigation in India?
Answers
Answer:
(i) Variability in Rainfall:
Rainfall in India is very uncertain which compels irrigation facilities to be provided.
ii) Unequal Distribution of Rainfall:
In most parts of the country, 80% of the annual rainfall is received from June to September from the south-west monsoon. Saurashtra-Kutch region of Gujarat, western half of Rajasthan and parts of Punjab and Haryana are in the arid zone. Condition very close to aridity prevails in the rain shadow tract along the leeward side of the Western Ghats. These areas are to be provided with irrigation.
(iii) To Meet Crop requirements and Soil Needs:
Different crops require different quantities of water supply throughout their growing period making it necessary for irrigation. Sugarcane and rice need more water than wheat and other crops.
(iv) To Maximise Production