Irrigation Systems — Set 10

Correct Answer: A. Minimal evaporation and reduced weed growth

The correct answer is Minimal evaporation and reduced weed growth. Subsurface irrigation delivers water underground directly to plant roots, virtually eliminating evaporation losses and reducing weed growth on the surface. It improves water efficiency, prevents disease spread through leaf wetting, and is particularly suitable for vegetables, fruits, and high-value crops. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. To raise water level and divert water into irrigation canals while allowing river traffic

The correct answer is To raise water level and divert water into irrigation canals while allowing river traffic. A barrage is a low dam structure with multiple gates that raises water level and diverts it into canals for irrigation while allowing river navigation. Unlike dams that create reservoirs, barrages do not substantially store water, making them suitable for flood-prone river regions. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. High-yielding varieties of wheat and rice

The correct answer is High-yielding varieties of wheat and rice. The Green Revolution introduced high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of wheat (like Sonalika) and rice (like IR-8) that responded well to irrigation, fertilizers, and pesticides. These varieties significantly increased agricultural productivity and made India self-sufficient in food grains. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Reduced snowmelt, irregular rainfall, and increased evaporation

The correct answer is Reduced snowmelt, irregular rainfall, and increased evaporation. Global warming reduces Himalayan snowmelt (reducing dry season water flow), causes unpredictable rainfall patterns, and increases evaporation from soil and water bodies. These changes threaten irrigation water availability, particularly for crops dependent on winter flows, requiring adaptive water management strategies. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Drip irrigation with automation systems

The correct answer is Drip irrigation with automation systems. Drip irrigation with automated systems requires significant upfront investment in pipes, emitters, filters, sensors, and controllers. However, long-term benefits in water savings, increased yields, and reduced input costs justify the investment, and government subsidies often help reduce farmer burden. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. To slow water runoff on slopes and increase soil water retention

The correct answer is To slow water runoff on slopes and increase soil water retention. Contour bunds are embankments constructed along contour lines on sloping terrain to slow runoff and increase water infiltration into soil. They prevent soil erosion, increase groundwater recharge, improve land productivity, and are commonly used in watershed management on hillsides. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Maharashtra

The correct answer is Maharashtra. Maharashtra has pioneered farmer-led irrigation groups and water users associations, empowering farmers to manage irrigation systems collectively. This model has improved water distribution equity, reduced conflicts over water sharing, and promoted sustainable water management at grassroots level. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Reduces soil fertility and crop productivity significantly

The correct answer is Reduces soil fertility and crop productivity significantly. Salinization, the accumulation of salts in soil due to poor drainage and excessive irrigation, renders soil infertile and unsuitable for most crops. It is a major problem in irrigated agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions, requiring salt leaching, improved drainage, and adjusted irrigation management. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. Rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation combined

The correct answer is Rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation combined. Combining rainwater harvesting with efficient irrigation methods like drip irrigation creates a sustainable system that minimizes water dependency, reduces groundwater extraction, improves soil moisture availability, and promotes long-term agricultural productivity while conserving precious water resources. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.

Correct Answer: A. To promote fruit and vegetable cultivation with efficient irrigation

The correct answer is To promote fruit and vegetable cultivation with efficient irrigation. The Mini Mission on Horticulture under NMSA aims to promote fruit and vegetable cultivation with emphasis on efficient irrigation and sustainable practices. It supports farmers in adopting drip irrigation, water harvesting, and improved varieties to increase horticultural productivity. This topic is frequently tested in competitive examinations such as RRB NTPC, SSC, and UPSC.