IMPACT OF IRRIGATION ON CROP PRODUCTION AND CROP YIELD IN INDIA

Abstract

Agriculture is one of the most important sectors of the Indian economy as it provides employment, ensures food security and supports the livelihood of millions of people. However, Indian agriculture is highly dependent on monsoon rainfall, which often creates uncertainty in agricultural production and productivity. Irrigation plays a crucial role in improving crop production, increasing crop yield and ensuring agricultural stability. The present study analyses the impact of irrigation on crop production and crop yield in India using secondary time-series data for the period 2000-2022. The study mainly focuses on irrigated area, crop production and crop yield. Data were collected from Agricultural Statistics at a Glance, FAOSTAT and other official government publications. Descriptive and analytical methods such as trend analysis, percentage analysis and comparative analysis were used to examine changes in irrigation and agricultural productivity over time. The findings of the study indicate that irrigated area increased from 121.05 million hectares in 2000 to 132.20 million hectares in 2022, recording an overall increase of approximately 9.21%. During the same period, crop production increased from 196.81 million tonnes to 329.69 million tonnes, showing a growth of nearly 67.52%, while crop yield increased from 1626 kg/hectare to 2494 kg/hectare, reflecting an increase of approximately 53.38%. The study concludes that irrigation has a positive impact on crop production and crop yield in India and plays an important role in improving agricultural productivity, food security and sustainable agricultural development.