What is Irrigation?
Irrigation is the artificial application of water to the land or soil. It is used to assist in the growing of agricultural crops, maintenance of landscapes, and revegetation of disturbed soils in dry areas and during periods of inadequate rainfall.
Historical Background
Irrigation has been practiced for thousands of years. In India, ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization used sophisticated irrigation systems. Post-independence, India launched major irrigation projects under the Five-Year Plans to increase agricultural productivity.