The correct answer is D. Drip irrigation is extensively promoted in Telangana’s horticulture due to water efficiency, improved crop yields, and reduced fertilizer leaching.
Drip irrigation is a method of irrigation that delivers water directly to the root zone of plants, in a slow, controlled manner. This method is more efficient than traditional methods of irrigation, such as flood irrigation, because it minimizes water loss due to evaporation and runoff. Drip irrigation also helps to improve crop yields by providing plants with the water they need at the time they need it, and by reducing the risk of diseases and pests. Additionally, drip irrigation can help to reduce fertilizer leaching, which can pollute groundwater and surface water.
In Telangana, drip irrigation is promoted by the government and by private companies. The government offers subsidies to farmers who install drip irrigation systems, and private companies offer training and technical support. As a result of these efforts, the use of drip irrigation has increased significantly in Telangana in recent years.
Here are some additional details about each of the options:
- Water efficiency: Drip irrigation is more efficient than traditional methods of irrigation because it delivers water directly to the root zone of plants. This means that less water is lost due to evaporation and runoff. Additionally, drip irrigation systems can be used to apply water more precisely, which can further reduce water loss.
- Improved crop yields: Drip irrigation can help to improve crop yields by providing plants with the water they need at the time they need it. This can lead to healthier plants and higher yields. Additionally, drip irrigation can help to reduce the risk of diseases and pests, which can also lead to higher yields.
- Reduced fertilizer leaching: Drip irrigation can help to reduce fertilizer leaching by applying fertilizer directly to the root zone of plants. This means that less fertilizer is lost to runoff and evaporation. Additionally, drip irrigation systems can be used to apply fertilizer more precisely, which can further reduce fertilizer leaching.