Water is an important input in agriculture which impacts almost all aspects and has a determining impact on the final product. Good seeds and fertilizers If plants are not provided with proper water they are unable to reach their full potential. Adequate availability of water is also important for animal husbandry. Fishermen are naturally directly dependent on water resources. India contributes about 17% of the world's population, but only 4% of the world's fresh water resources.
Indian Agricultural Sector:
India holds a significant position globally in agricultural production. In 2013, the Modern Agriculture, and related sectors, including forestry and fisheries, contributed 13.7% to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and accounted for 50% of the total employment. The irrigation infrastructure comprises canal-based systems, groundwater, wells, tank-based systems, and other rainwater harvesting products. Earth, land, and water were not given to us as a gift by our ancestors but borrowed from our children. Therefore, it is imperative that we pass them on to the next generations in the same condition in which we received them.
Water Conservation: Key to Agricultural Development:
Water conservation is the key to agricultural development, and it is a crucial and meaningful subject that should be taken seriously by all. In India, proper and efficient management of water resources is of utmost importance, as the majority of our agriculture and related activities depend on water. Through water conservation, we can progress towards prosperity, whether there is a scarcity of water in productive areas, irregularities in rainfall, or damage to water sources due to pollution. By following proper irrigation methods and technological solutions, we can not only save water resources but also ensure its safety for future generations.
Water is an extremely important and invaluable resource for Indian agriculture. It forms the foundation of a secure, healthy, and sustainable agricultural system that contributes to ensuring the country's food security. Indian agriculture relies heavily on every drop of water, emphasizing the significant contribution of proper water supply. For progress and development, it is essential to manage water resources smoothly and appropriately. Good irrigation systems, the right selection of seeds, and cultivating crops in suitable locations with proper fertilizers will ensure that each water droplet is used efficiently and that plants are nourished to perfection.
Available Water : India is not a water-rich country, and its challenges have increased due to the negative impacts of climate change; this is exacerbated by poor management and distorted water pricing policies resulting in significant losses. While the northern Ganges River basin is abundant in water resources, the southern river basins face some scarcity, compounded by high levels of pollution in groundwater and surface water.
The availability of water sources and demand in India shows significant disparities from one region to another. The mismanagement and unjust use and distribution of water are evident. Approximately 90% of the Indian population resides in areas where there is some form of water scarcity or a shortage of food production. Groundwater has been plentiful in most parts of India, although in some regions, it is becoming a pressing concern.
Globally, approximately 40% of irrigation water is supplied from groundwater sources, and in India, the reliance on it exceeds 50%. Due to the general invisibility of groundwater in its natural state and the challenges associated with directly monitoring it, regulating and overseeing this resource is particularly difficult, primarily in developing countries.
Currently, irrigation accounts for nearly 84% of the total available water consumption. The industrial and domestic sectors consume approximately 12% and 4% of the total available water, respectively. In the context of remaining a major user of irrigation, the "more crop per drop" concept is crucial. Enhancing the efficiency of water use is imperative to expand the irrigation sector and, simultaneously, promote water conservation. In India, the foundational framework for irrigation has seen the most significant expansion over the years.
Indian Agriculture Water Resources and Challenges:
Indian agriculture is inclined towards utilizing water resources judiciously, considering its distinctive aspects and challenges. The increasing population, erratic rainfall, and "Organic Farming" pollution have led to a scarcity of water possibilities. There is a need for modernization in irrigation, improvement of sluggish water systems, and adoption of harmonious measures for water conservation in farming. Through remarkable capabilities in water conservation and proper usage across all agriculture-related sectors, Indian agriculture is taking a leading role in the direction of its goals.
Conclusion:
Presently, India is grappling with a shortage of available water resources, impacting the agricultural sector. Several regions in the country are facing water stress. It is crucial to create awareness and provide guidance for the efficient use of available technologies and resources to enhance water use efficiency in agriculture. Educating water users in the agricultural sector and assisting the country in transitioning to more water-conscious production methods could be instrumental in helping India overcome the water crisis.
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