Micro Irrigation in India

1. Definition

Micro irrigation refers to low-pressure, low-volume water application techniques—primarily drip and micro-sprinkler systems—that deliver water and nutrients directly to the plant root zone, enhancing water use efficiency and crop performance.

2. Types of Micro Irrigation

Drip Irrigation
- Emits water as droplets through emitters or drippers at the soil surface or buried near roots.
- Ideal for row crops, orchards and vineyards.
Micro-Sprinkler Irrigation
- Distributes fine water droplets over the crop canopy or soil surface via low-flow sprinklers.
- Suited for fruit orchards, nurseries and vegetable beds.
Subsurface Drip Irrigation (SDI)
- Burying drip lines 10–30 cm below ground to reduce evaporation and wet the root zone directly.
Bubbler and Spray Systems
- Low-pressure bubblers release small water streams; mini-spray nozzles create localized wetting patterns.

3. Advantages

High Water Use Efficiency (WUE): 80–95% vs. 40–60% in conventional flood irrigation.
Enhanced Crop Yields: Precise water and nutrient delivery boosts yields by 20–50%.
Reduced Evaporation and Runoff: Localized application minimizes losses.
Lower Energy Costs: Operates at 1–3 bar pressure; smaller pump capacity.
Fertilizer Savings: Fertigation through drip systems reduces fertilizer use by 20–30%.
Weed and Disease Management: Dry inter-row zones suppress weeds and reduce fungal diseases.

4. Challenges

High Capital Investment: Initial costs for equipment and installation remain a barrier for smallholders.
Maintenance Requirements: Emitters clogging due to poor water quality; pipes require regular flushing and inspection.
Technical Expertise: Need for design optimization, operation training and monitoring.
Power and Pump Dependence: Reliable electricity or diesel supply is essential for system operation.
Quality of Inputs: Use of substandard pipes, fittings and emitters undermines system longevity.

5. Government Initiatives

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): “Per Drop More Crop” component subsidizes drip and micro-sprinkler systems at 50–85% for small and marginal farmers.
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): Provides capital grants and technical support for micro irrigation in orchards and plantations.
Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): Supports state-level projects for adoption of micro irrigation in high-value crops.
Soil Health Card Scheme: Recommends fertigation through micro irrigation to optimize nutrient management.
National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD): Offers low-interest loans and refinance for micro irrigation projects.

6. Way Forward

Strengthen Supply Chains: Ensure availability of quality drippers, pipes and filtration units through accreditation and standards.
Capacity Building: Expand farmer training programs, demonstration plots and digital advisory services for system design, operation and maintenance.
Innovative Financing: Develop micro-credit, group financing and leasing models to reduce upfront costs.
Water Quality Management: Invest in community-level filtration and sedimentation units to supply clean water to micro irrigation systems.
Integration with Renewable Energy: Promote solar-powered pumps to reduce operating costs and enhance reliability.
Data-Driven Irrigation Scheduling: Leverage soil moisture sensors, weather forecasts and mobile apps for precision irrigation timing.
Policy Support and Incentives: Continue and refine subsidy schemes, tie them to performance metrics (water savings, yield gains) and ensure timely delivery.
Research and Innovation: Encourage public–private partnerships to develop clog-resistant emitters, pressure-compensating drippers and IoT-enabled monitoring solutions.

Adoption of micro irrigation, coupled with supportive policies, finance mechanisms and capacity building, can transform India’s agriculture by conserving scarce water resources, boosting farmer incomes and ensuring sustainable crop production.