Question

Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and other one labelled as Reason (R).
Assertion (A) : Surface irrigation methods are the oldest, most commonly used methods and may continue to dominate irrigation scene in India.
Reason (R) : Farmers are quite familiar with surface irrigation being traditional in nature, easy to practice even with limited resources.
In light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below.

• A. Both (A) and (R) are correct and (R) is the correct explanation of (A).
• B. Both (A) and (R) are incorrect and (R) is the not correct explanation of (A).
• C. (A) is correct but (R) is not correct.
• D. (A) is not correct but (R) is correct.

Hint:

While pressurized micro-irrigation (drip/sprinkler) saves water, its high initial setup cost and energy requirements are why surface irrigation remains the dominant choice for resource-constrained farmers.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Surface irrigation (such as flooding, furrow, and border irrigation) involves applying water across the soil surface by gravity.
It is the dominant irrigation method in developing countries like India.
Detailed Explanation:
Let us analyze the statements:
- Assertion (A) analysis: Surface irrigation remains the most common and oldest method in India, covering over $85\%$ of the total irrigated area. Due to socioeconomic factors, it is expected to continue dominating Indian agriculture. Thus, Assertion (A) is correct.
- Reason (R) analysis: Most Indian farmers have small landholdings and limited capital. Surface irrigation does not require expensive pressurized pipe networks or electricity. It is easy to operate, traditional, and cost-effective to set up. Thus, Reason (R) is correct.
- Evaluating the connection: Since the ease of operation, low cost, and traditional familiarity (R) are the primary reasons why farmers continue to use and rely on surface irrigation (A), (R) is the correct explanation of (A).

Step 2: Final Answer:
Both (A) and (R) are correct, and (R) is the correct explanation of (A). This corresponds to Option (A).