Saksham GoelAIR 27 · CSE 2021 · 161 wordsTheir whole copy
Opening · a definition
Micro-irrigation refers to localised and precise irrigation with minimal use of water and energy for maximum crop i.e. Per drop more crop.
It includes methods like Sprinkler irrigation, drip irrigation, zero budget natural farming, aerial seeding ("fire and forget" model) and so on.
Benefits of micro irrigation:-
Body · points
(1) Enhances the productive efficiency of the cultivation process
(2) Prevents leaching and soil degradation
(3) Reduces the demand of fertilisers
(4) Reduces the pressure on water table (as opposed to standing water method of paddy cultivation)
(5) Prevents run-off pollution of rivers and water bodies
(6) Reduces methane emission from crops like paddy
(7) Mechanises the process for precise agriculture and climate smart agriculture.
Challenges in implementation
(1) Lack of awareness of best practices
(2) High initial capital and energy requirement - lack of investment
(3) Perverse subsidy structure
Close · a way forward
For climate resilient, sustainable, efficient, productive agricultural sector with higher farm incomes, government incentives for micro irrigation coupled with necessary requisite infrastructure is mandatory.
How toppers approach this question, and more on its topic: open the question.