Apropos the article "PMKSY to subsume three irrigation programmes" (July 6), which is expected to usher in development in the agriculture sector. Coordination between departments and programmes dealing with water use is essential for more crop per drop.
Water harvesting structures should be constructed where existing structures do not meet the requirement. Water guzzler crops should be discouraged. About 3,000-5,000 litres of water is required to produce a kg of paddy, whereas wheat needs less than half this quantity. Water supply rates need to be increased in command areas. It would encourage adoption of efficient methods and save up to 30 per cent water.
However, it must be kept in mind the economics of rain-fed farming is a pretty grim affair. Therefore, inter-linking of rivers should be a priority.
Sushil Bakliwal Jaipur
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