7. What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency.

7. What is water-use efficiency? Describe the role of micro-irrigation in increasing the water-use efficiency.

    Water use efficiency (WUE) refers to the amount of water converted to plant biomass or grains. It may be defined as the ratio of total water used to that of the water used productively (absorbed by the plant). WUE has been the focus to meet irrigation needs.

Role of micro- irrigation in increasing WUE:

    Micro-irrigation refers to an irrigation method with low flow pressure technology. It's water use efficiency is expected to be around 90%. Conventional irrigation methods have a WUE of about 30- 40%.

    Micro irrigation is of several types. It utilizes pipes, tubes, filters and valves.

    Micro irrigation improves WUE by,

• Preventing water run off
• Reducing evaporation losses
• Reducing transportation losses
• Reducing electricity consumption and increasing energy efficiency.
• Regulating the amount of water as per the necessity  ( times, sensors are used to provide the appropriate amount of water)   
• Inhibiting weed growth ( which would absorb water and result in wastage)
• Decreases total water used and increases total water consumed by plants.
•  Micro-irrigation improves WUE by.
• Knowing the soil, the texture, the absorption capacity of soil, percolation etc.
• Knowing the crop - the amount of water needed and frequency at which it is needed
• Knowing the water – salinity, presence of contamination, etc
• Knowing the field – slope, run off, fertilizers requirements, etc.

Micro- irrigation typically provides for water at the root of the plant as per requirement.

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana has integrated various irrigation under the banner of More Crop, Per Drop.

The government has aimed to provide water to every field ( Har Keth Ko Pani) this can be achieved only  by improving water use efficiency and adopting micro- irrigation.

India has signed a Memorandum of understanding with Israel (Leader in WUE).