Which of the following is a major source of irrigation in Madhya Pradesh?

Question

UnlockIAS · Accepted Answer

Correct — D, Wells and Tube wells. Groundwater-based irrigation (dug wells plus electric/diesel tube wells) has long irrigated the largest share of Madhya Pradesh's net irrigated area, ahead of canals — farmers across the Malwa Plateau and central highlands rely heavily on groundwater because the state's canal network, though growing, does not reach every farm.

Why the other options are wrong — (a) A minor, localised irrigation source in MP — nowhere near dominant for the state as a whole.  (b) Canal irrigation is significant and has grown with Narmada-linked dam projects, but it has historically covered less net irrigated area than groundwater.  (c) Pairs a significant source (canals) with a minor one (ponds); together they still fall short of groundwater's share of net irrigated area.

Concept: India's — and Madhya Pradesh's — irrigated area draws from a mix of sources: canals, tanks/ponds, wells & tube wells, and other minor sources. In MP, wells and tube wells (groundwater) have historically irrigated the largest share of net irrigated area, well ahead of canals, tanks, or other sources — though large dam-and-canal projects on the Narmada have been expanding canal irrigation's share in recent years.

State PCS 2022 Q78 — Madhya Pradesh GK PYQ with Answer

State PCS 2022 Q78 — Madhya Pradesh GK PYQ with Answer