Evaluation of Drip Irrigation System in Maharashtra

Experience of the countries which use drip irrigation extensively indicates that the method of drip irrigation enhances the yield of crop, reduces the consumption of water as well as the cost of cultivation. Results of the different research stations in India have also confirmed the importance of drip irrigation in increasing the productivity of the crops and reducing the consumption of water. In India, this method of irrigation was introduced in the early eighties through Government's schemes. Measures have been introduced in the recent years to promote this water saving technology on a large scale. In the Eighth Plan period a centrally sponsored scheme namely "Use of Plastics in Agriculture" has been launched for promotion of various plasticulture techniques like drip irrigatior, mulching and green houses with the objectives of achieving higher productivity with optimum utilisation of water resources. Maharashtra is one of the leading States in using drip irrigation. Large number of farmers have taken benefit of the State and Central schemes of drip irrigation. Present study is undertaken to evaluate the performance of drip irrigation system provided undcr the Government's schemes in Maharashtra.