Introduction:

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Micro Irrigation represents a holistic approach aimed at boosting crop productivity by enhancing water utilization efficiency through Micro Irrigation Systems.

It involves the gradual delivery of small drips, minute streams, or miniature sprays of water either above or below the soil surface.

Micro irrigation systems are adept at conserving water and improving water utilization efficiency compared to conventional surface irrigation methods.

Benefits

(i) Decreases water consumption

(ii) Suppresses the growth of undesirable vegetation (weeds)

(iii) Applicable across diverse types of terrain

(iv) Suited for undulating landscapes

(v) Enhances crop yield and reduces labor expenses

(vi) Diminishes the need for fertilizers while enhancing soil fertility.

Body:

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Government Initiatives

Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme

This initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, is a central government endeavor promoting micro-irrigation systems like drip or sprinkler systems.

Initiated in 2006, it was subsequently absorbed into the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sichai Yojna (PMKSY) in 2015, forming one of its integral components.

Financing is divided, with the central government contributing approximately 40 percent, and the remainder financed by states and farmers themselves, with varying proportions in hilly and northeastern states.

The scheme primarily aims to augment water-use efficiency and bolster productivity, thereby augmenting farmer incomes.

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)

This scheme, undertaken by the Government of India, endeavors to enhance water utilization efficiency in agriculture by advocating suitable technological interventions.

Micro Irrigation Fund

This initiative is committed to facilitating agricultural irrigation access by prioritizing water conservation and management.

It offers several advantages such as increased subsidies on micro irrigation systems, complimentary service for three years post-installation of micro irrigation systems, and heightened water utilization efficiency.

States can access the fund in the form of a loan from NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) at a 3 percent lower cost of funds, with the central government compensating the remaining 3 percent

Conclusion:

The ending of the answer should be on a positive note and it should have a forward-looking approach

Micro Irrigation, bolstered by government initiatives like the Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) scheme and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), emerges as a pivotal tool in enhancing agricultural productivity while conserving water resources. Through the effective implementation of micro irrigation systems, farmers can achieve higher crop yields, reduce water consumption, and mitigate the growth of unwanted vegetation. Moreover, initiatives such as the Micro Irrigation Fund further incentivize the adoption of these systems by providing financial assistance and promoting water conservation practices. By leveraging micro irrigation technologies and government support, India can progress towards sustainable agriculture, ensuring food security, and bolstering the livelihoods of farmers nationwide

Other Points to Consider

Sprinkler and Drip Irrigation

Challenges in implementation