Irrigation is an artificial application of water for our fields for the purpose of agricultural production. Effective irrigation will influence the entire growth process from seed bed proportion, germination, root growth, nutrient utilization, plant growth and regrowth, yield and quality.
In Rajasthan, the largest irrigated area is in Sriganganagar district and least in Rajsamand. The means of irrigation in Rajasthan are wells and tube – wells, canals and ponds.
1. Wells and tube – wells: These are the most important means of irrigation in Rajasthan. 66 per cent of total irrigated area is watered by wells and tube – wells. These are mostly used in Jaipur and Alwar. Chandan tube – well in Jaisalmer is called the “Pitcher of Thar”, as it supplies Fresh drinking water in large quantities.
2. Canals: 33 per cent of irrigated area in Rajasthan is watered by canals. Sriganganagar ranks first in canal irrigation.
3. Ponds: 0.7 per cent of irrigated area is watered by this means. It is an important means in the south and south eastern part of the state. Bhilwara ranks first and Udaipur is second in pond irrigation. Some other means of irrigation are also used, but at a very low level with only 0.3 per cent.
