Irrigation Development Needs in India

Irrigation development continues to register top priority with irrigation potential estimated at about 58 million ha at the end of 1979-1980. The main emphasis is on higher utilization of the existing potential, speedy completion of ongoing projects, and efficient maintenance of the existing irrigation systems. In India, 45 percent of the total quantity of irrigation water is used for growing rice. The advanced irrigation methods such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation have not yet developed in India due to the high initial investment. Realizing that optimum development of the irrigation potential requires careful and systematic administration of water distribution and water management practices, the Government of India (GOI) in 1973 called on the states to establish Command Area Development Authority. The GOI has advised the states to form state tubewell corporations to assist in the development and utilization of ground water resources.