Irrigation Water Resources in India: Status, Sources, Quality Challenges, and Sustainable Management

Abstract

India’s per capita water availability has declined over time, placing increasing pressure on agricultural water resources. Groundwater plays a critical role in irrigation, with more than 90% of groundwater withdrawals reportedly used for agricultural purposes. Agriculture also accounts for a substantial share of India’s employment. Declining groundwater levels, increasing dependence on irrigation, and the use of inadequately monitored water sources raise concerns regarding the sustainability of water resources and the quality of irrigation water and soil. Improving irrigation water-use efficiency is therefore essential for sustainable agricultural production. Properly designed and maintained drip and sprinkler irrigation systems can improve water-application efficiency compared with conventional surface irrigation, although the reported efficiency values depend on the methods and conditions of assessment.

The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), launched in 2015, integrates several irrigation-related initiatives, with micro-irrigation serving as an important component. Wider adoption of water-efficient technologies requires accessible institutional support, technical guidance, and effective implementation mechanisms. Irrigation-water quality varies across regions according to rainfall patterns, aquifer recharge, groundwater extraction, and local water-use practices. Important parameters for assessing irrigation-water suitability include electrical conductivity (EC), sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), residual sodium carbonate (RSC), and specific-ion toxicity. Boron and chloride concentrations also require attention because excessive levels can adversely affect plant growth. Furthermore, smart irrigation approaches incorporating wireless communication systems, monitoring tools, sensors, and improved control strategies can support efficient irrigation scheduling and water management. Integrating these approaches with appropriate institutional support and region-specific water-resource planning is essential for improving irrigation efficiency and promoting sustainable agricultural production in India.

Keywords

irrigation water quality; groundwater; irrigation potential; micro-irrigation; salinity; sodium adsorption ratio; smart irrigation; sustainable water management.