Irrigation Scheduling and Cultivar Management for Increasing Water Productivity under Dryland Condition: A Review
Shravan Kumar Maurya *
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Aniket Kalhapure
Department of Agronomy, Banda University of Agriculture and Technology, Banda, Uttar Pradesh, India.
V. K. Verma
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Ankit Tiwari
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Chandrakant Chaubey
Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Durgesh Kumar Maurya
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Mandeep Kumar
Department of Agronomy, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
In Dryland environments with limited water resources, irrigation scheduling and cultivar management are play pivotal roles in enhancing water productivity. Effective irrigation scheduling involves the judicious timing and amount of water application, considering factors such as soil moisture levels and crop growth stages. Utilizing advanced technologies, such as soil moisture sensors and remote sensing, facilitates precise irrigation management. This approach not only conserves water but also prevents waterlogging and salinity issues, promoting optimal plant growth. Cultivar selection is another critical aspect, focusing on identifying and cultivating crops that are well-adapted to arid conditions. Drought-resistant cultivars with traits like deep root systems and efficient water use contribute significantly to water productivity. Integrating modern breeding techniques and genetic engineering enhances the development of cultivars with improved drought tolerance, ensuring resilience in dryland agriculture. Furthermore, the implementation of agro ecological practices, such as conservation tillage and organic farming, complements irrigation scheduling and cultivar management. These practices enhance soil structure, water retention, and overall ecosystem health, fostering a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system. Adopting a comprehensive approach that combines precise irrigation scheduling, resilient cultivar selection and agro ecological practices holds great potential for increasing water productivity in dryland conditions. This integrated strategy not only addresses the challenges posed by water scarcity but also contributes to the long-term viability of agriculture in arid regions.
Keywords: Cultivar, dryland, efficiency, irrigation scheduling and water productivity