What is irrigation? Name the two main methods of irrigation and define them briefly.
The artificial method of watering the plants for assisting in the growth of the plants at regular interval is called irrigation. The two main methods of irrigation are:
(i) Traditional method: The traditional method of irrigation is very less expensive and they often lead to wastage of water. Traditional method of irrigation involves chain pump, dhekli, moat (the pulley system) and rahat (lever system).
(ii) Modern method: Modern methods of irrigation are more inclined towards the use of diesel, bio-gas, solar energy and electricity for lifting water.
The two most important modern system of irrigation are:
· Drip irrigation system