Question

Which crops cover the largest area under drip irrigation in India?

• A. Field crops
• B. Silviculture crops
• C. Horticulture crops
• D. Agrisilviculture crops

Hint:

Micro-irrigation (Drip/Sprinkler) is always associated with High-Value Crops (Horticulture).
Think of Drip Irrigation as "Spoon-feeding" the plant; you only spoon-feed the most precious plants in the garden!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
This question focuses on the application of micro-irrigation technology (drip irrigation) in Indian agriculture and which sector utilizes it most extensively.
Detailed Explanation:

• Nature of Drip Irrigation:
Drip irrigation, also known as trickle irrigation, involves applying water slowly and directly to the root zone of plants through emitters and pipes.
It offers the highest water-use efficiency (90–95%) compared to surface irrigation.

• Economic Feasibility:
The initial setup cost of drip irrigation is high.
Consequently, farmers prefer to use it for high-value crops where the return on investment is guaranteed.
Horticulture crops (fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers) fit this profile perfectly.

• Usage in India:
In states like Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka, drip irrigation is extensively used for bananas, grapes, pomegranates, and citrus fruits.
While field crops like Sugarcane and Cotton are increasingly adopting drip systems, the total area historically and currently dominated by drip is within the horticulture sector.

• Why not others?
Field crops: Crops like rice or wheat are usually grown over vast areas with flood irrigation; although "Drip on Sugarcane" is growing, it hasn't overtaken horticulture in total area yet.
Silviculture: Forestry crops rarely receive intensive drip irrigation due to the scale and nature of the plants.
Agrisilviculture: This integrated system typically relies on natural rainfall or simpler irrigation methods.

Step 2: Final Answer:
Due to the wide spacing and high economic value of fruit and vegetable plants, Horticulture crops cover the largest area under drip irrigation in India.