1. Market Size and Demand

• Agricultural Dependency: Over 60% of India’s agriculture is dependent on monsoon rainfall, making efficient irrigation crucial. Approximately 48% of the country’s net sown area is still unirrigated, creating a large market for irrigation infrastructure.
• Sector Growth: The Indian irrigation market, including canal-based and micro-irrigation systems (like drip and sprinkler systems), is projected to grow due to increased investment, modernization needs, and a shift towards sustainable farming.

2. Key Irrigation Projects

• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): This is the flagship government scheme to achieve “Har Khet Ko Pani” (Water for Every Field) and improve farm productivity. It encompasses various components like Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP) for faster completion of delayed irrigation projects.
• Ken-Betwa Link Project: This interlinking of rivers in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh aims to irrigate around 1 million hectares of land and enhance water access.

3. Technological Trends

• Micro-Irrigation Systems: Adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation is growing, encouraged by government subsidies. Companies like Jain Irrigation and Netafim India are key players, promoting water efficiency and precision agriculture.
• Digital and IoT Solutions: Emerging technologies, including IoT sensors and soil moisture monitoring systems, are gaining traction to optimize water use and reduce waste.

4. Government Support and Policies

• Financial Incentives: The government offers subsidies and credit facilities for micro-irrigation systems under schemes like PMKSY, encouraging farmers to adopt more efficient methods.
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan: A water conservation initiative focused on rainwater harvesting and sustainable water management, impacting irrigation by improving groundwater levels.

5. Future Prospects

The sector’s growth is driven by a push for sustainable agriculture, expanding rural infrastructure, and increased private sector participation. Innovations in affordable micro-irrigation technology, coupled with enhanced government support, are expected to shape India’s irrigation landscape in the coming years.