Question

Which is the largest source of irrigation in India?

• A. Canal
• B. Tube well
• C. Tanks
• D. Open well

Hint:

Uttar Pradesh has the largest area under tube-well irrigation in India. This reliance on groundwater has led to concerns about falling water tables in many states.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the primary source of irrigation that covers the largest area of agricultural land in India.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Irrigation in India is carried out through various sources such as canals, wells (tube wells and open wells), tanks, and others.

• Since the 1960s (Green Revolution era), there has been a massive shift from surface water irrigation (canals/tanks) to groundwater irrigation (wells).

• Currently, tube wells account for the largest share of irrigation in India, providing water to more than 45% of the total net irrigated area.

• If we combine tube wells and other wells, the share of groundwater irrigation exceeds 60%.

• Canals are the second largest source, especially in the northern plains and deltaic regions, but their share has decreased relative to tube wells due to better control over water timing provided by groundwater pumps.

• Tanks are a significant source in Peninsular India (South India), but their overall national percentage is low.

Step 3: Final Answer: Tube wells are the largest source of irrigation in India.