Question

Mention any two means of irrigation in India.

Hint:

For irrigation in India, think "ground vs. surface". The two primary methods are using groundwater (wells/tubewells) and using surface water from rivers (canals). These two cover the vast majority of irrigation in the country.

Answer 1

Two major means of irrigation in India are:


Well and Tubewell Irrigation: This is the most widespread means of irrigation in India, accounting for the largest share of the irrigated area. It involves drawing groundwater from wells and tubewells using electric or diesel pumps. It is particularly dominant in the alluvial plains of North India.

Canal Irrigation: This is the second most important source of irrigation. It involves a network of main canals, branch canals, and distributaries that divert water from rivers or reservoirs to the fields. It is prominent in states like Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh.