Question

Explain various types of irrigation systems in India.

Answer 1

There are various types of irrigation systems in India.

1. Canal system: In this system, man-made canals receive water from different reservoirs or rivers. There are unlined field channels that serve individual fields or a group of fields. Rotation system is followed in canal irrigated areas. This ensures adequate irrigation to all the fields in water shortage.
2. Tanks: These are small storage reservoirs that catch and store the run-off of smaller catchment areas. In the tanks, outflows are controlled as per the availability of water to prevent uneven distribution of water.
3. Wells: They are of two types:
   1. Dug wells: Water is collected from water-bearing strata that slowly accumulates in the pit. Mechanical means are used to collect water from dug wells.
   2. Tube wells: It gets water from deeper strata. Diesel or electrical pumps are used to lift water from tube wells.
4. River lift system: Water is directly drawn from the rivers for supplement irrigation.
5. River valley system: In this system, plants are cultivated in riverine valleys and on the slopes of these valleys.
6. Drip and sprinkler system: Overhead pipes and water sprayers are used in this system. This method is more common in USA, Britain, Europe, and parts of India.