Water Conservation For Sustainable Agriculture In Maharashtra

Abstract

Maharashtra is India's third-largest state. The state's water supply is both physically and temporally uneven. Irrigation now accounts for about 80% of total water usage, a proportion that is expected to decrease as urbanisation and industry expand. One of the many options for reducing water stress in the state is to improve water use efficiency. The state's average rainfall is roughly 1360 mm. Maharashtra has a typical monsoon climate, with three distinct seasons and tropical weather. Based on rainfall, soil type, and vegetation, the state is classified into nine agroclimatic zones. Maharashtra is one of the most water-stressed states in the country. Over the last few years, Maharashtra's rainfall has steadily decreased. This has had a negative impact on agriculture yield in arid areas. Agriculture is the backbone of Maharashtra's economic development because the majority of the state's population is dependent on agriculture and agricultural-related businesses. In this context, systematic irrigation planning and development, as well as long-term management of the developed resource, will undoubtedly enhance job creation and raise the population's level of living. Agriculture is Maharashtra's greatest water user, accounting for more than 80% of the state's exploitable water resources. As a result, groundwater is rapidly decreasing. In these conditions, the State has continuously emphasised the importance of water, and actions should be done to better utilise available water and land resources. Micro-irrigation systems save up to 40% of water, allowing for increased productivity, better quality fruits, vegetables, and other crops, fewer pests and diseases, and lower labour, electricity, and fertiliser costs.