Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Command Area Development (CAD) program is a crucial component of India’s irrigation strategy, aiming to maximize the agricultural potential of irrigated lands. Initiated in the 1970s, it recognizes that merely providing irrigation water is insufficient; effective utilization requires a holistic approach encompassing land development, drainage, input supply, and farmer training. The Indira Gandhi Canal (formerly Rajasthan Canal), a monumental feat of engineering, serves as a prime example of CAD implementation, intended to transform the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan. However, the success of CAD through IGC has been a mixed bag, marked by both significant achievements and persistent challenges.
Understanding Command Area Development (CAD)
CAD was conceptualized to address the issues of waterlogging, salinity, and inefficient water use in irrigated areas. The core objectives of CAD are:
- Enhancing Irrigation Potential: Maximizing the area brought under assured irrigation.
- Improving Water Use Efficiency: Reducing water losses and promoting efficient irrigation techniques.
- Increasing Agricultural Productivity: Boosting crop yields and diversifying agricultural production.
- Socio-Economic Upliftment: Improving the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
- Preventing Waterlogging and Salinity: Implementing drainage systems and soil conservation measures.
The program is implemented through a multi-disciplinary approach involving various departments like irrigation, agriculture, land records, and rural development.
Indira Gandhi Canal: A Case Study
The Indira Gandhi Canal, originating from the Harike Barrage on the Beas River, is one of the largest canal systems in India. It traverses through the arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, providing irrigation to approximately 1.99 million hectares of land. The CAD program was implemented alongside the canal to ensure optimal utilization of the water resources.
Successes of CAD with reference to IGC
- Increased Irrigation Coverage: The canal significantly expanded the irrigated area in Rajasthan, transforming a large portion of the desert into agricultural land.
- Enhanced Agricultural Production: Crop production, particularly wheat, cotton, and oilseeds, increased substantially in the command area.
- Groundwater Recharge: Canal water percolated into the ground, leading to a rise in the groundwater table in some areas, providing an additional source of irrigation.
- Socio-Economic Development: The canal created employment opportunities in agriculture and related sectors, improving the economic condition of the local population.
- Development of Agro-Industries: Increased agricultural production spurred the growth of agro-processing industries in the region.
Failures and Challenges of CAD with reference to IGC
- Waterlogging and Salinity: Inadequate drainage facilities led to waterlogging and salinity in large areas, reducing agricultural productivity. This was particularly severe in the lower reaches of the canal.
- Inefficient Water Management: Lack of proper water distribution systems and farmer awareness resulted in inefficient water use and wastage.
- Seepage Losses: Significant water losses occurred due to seepage from the unlined portions of the canal.
- Imbalance in Crop Pattern: Over-reliance on water-intensive crops like paddy led to depletion of groundwater resources in some areas.
- Lack of Farmer Participation: Insufficient involvement of farmers in the planning and implementation of CAD programs hindered their effectiveness.
- Command Area Conflicts: Disputes over water allocation among different sections of the command area arose due to unequal distribution.
Recent Initiatives and Improvements
Recognizing the shortcomings of the initial CAD program, several initiatives have been undertaken to improve its effectiveness:
- Lining of Canals: Efforts are being made to line the unlined portions of the canal to reduce seepage losses.
- Construction of Drainage Systems: Drainage infrastructure is being developed to address the problem of waterlogging and salinity.
- Promotion of Micro-Irrigation: Drip and sprinkler irrigation systems are being promoted to enhance water use efficiency.
- Farmer Training and Awareness Programs: Farmers are being educated about efficient water management practices and crop diversification.
- Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM): Encouraging farmer participation in the management of irrigation systems.
| Aspect | Initial CAD Implementation (IGC) | Recent Improvements |
|---|---|---|
| Canal Lining | Limited lining, high seepage losses | Extensive lining underway, reducing losses |
| Drainage Facilities | Inadequate, leading to waterlogging | Development of drainage infrastructure |
| Water Management | Inefficient, water wastage | Promotion of micro-irrigation, PIM |
| Farmer Participation | Limited involvement | Increased participation through PIM |
Conclusion
The Indira Gandhi Canal, coupled with the CAD program, has undeniably played a transformative role in the development of Rajasthan. However, the initial implementation faced significant challenges related to waterlogging, salinity, and inefficient water management. Recent initiatives focusing on canal lining, drainage development, and participatory irrigation management are aimed at addressing these issues and maximizing the benefits of the canal. A sustained and integrated approach, with greater farmer involvement and a focus on sustainable water use practices, is crucial for ensuring the long-term success of CAD in the IGC command area and other similar regions across India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.