India’s Drip Irrigation Policy

Photo Courtesy: CCO

Despite availability of subsidy from state agencies, majority of farmers are reluctant to invest in micro-irrigation system such as drip irrigation facilities. Photo: Kheda, Gujarat

Abstract: The method of drip irrigation has several advantages over the flow method. Despite this, only 14.5 per cent of its potential is being utilised in Indian agriculture. Concerted efforts to encourage more states to engage in drip irrigation can help combat increasing water scarcity in agriculture dependent regions of the country.

The Author is a Member (Official), Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, New Delhi. narayana64@gmail.com