Question 19 from UPSC CSE 2016 - Economy

Question

Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practicing drip irrigation?
1. Reduction in weed
2. Reduction in soil salinity
3. Reduction in soil erosion
Select the correct answer using the code given below.

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: C. 1 and 3 only

Strategy: Evaluate each statement about drip irrigation. Identify the correct statements (1 and 3) regarding weed reduction and soil erosion, and eliminate the incorrect statement (2) regarding soil salinity.

Key Info: **Drip Irrigation (Trickle Irrigation):** A micro-irrigation system that conserves water and fertilizer by allowing water to drip slowly to the roots of plants, either from above the soil surface or buried below the surface. The goal is to place water directly into the root zone and minimize evaporation.

- **Mechanism:** Uses a network of valves, pipes, tubing, and emitters to deliver water precisely.
- **Advantages:**
  - **Water Conservation:** Highly efficient in water use, reducing losses from evaporation, runoff, and deep percolation.
  - **Reduction in Weed Growth:** Water is applied only to the plant's root zone, keeping the areas between plants dry and inhibiting weed germination and growth.
  - **Reduction in Soil Erosion:** Slow and controlled water delivery prevents surface runoff and minimizes soil disturbance, thus reducing erosion, especially on sloped terrains.
  - **Efficient Fertilizer Use:** Fertilizers can be applied directly to the root zone through the irrigation water (fertigation), increasing nutrient uptake efficiency.
  - **Increased Crop Yield:** Consistent moisture supply directly to the roots promotes healthier plant growth and higher yields.
  - **Reduced Disease Incidence:** Leaves remain dry, which can reduce the incidence of some foliar diseases.
  - **Adaptability:** Suitable for diverse topographies, soil types, and water qualities.

**Soil Salinity:** Drip irrigation does not inherently reduce soil salinity. If the irrigation water contains dissolved salts, these salts can accumulate at the edges of the wetted zone as water evaporates, potentially leading to increased salinity in certain soil areas, requiring careful management strategies like periodic leaching or adjustment of water application to prevent salt build-up in the active root zone.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option A: 1 and 2 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: 3 only

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: None of the above is an advantage of practising drip irrigation

Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practicing drip irrigation? Reduction in weed Reduction in soil salinity Reduction in soil erosion Select the correct answer using the code given below.

Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practicing drip irrigation?

Reduction in weed

Reduction in soil salinity

Reduction in soil erosion
Select the correct answer using the code given below.