Groundwater Irrigation in Punjab: Some Issues and a Way Forward

Abstract

This chapter examines the state of groundwater balance in Punjab and suggests strategies to make it sustainable. The author notes that the net irrigated area is predominantly under tube well irrigation, that is, 71 %. Therefore, the pressure on groundwater for fulfilling irrigation needs in Punjab is very high. The groundwater table is receding at a rapid rate. Out of 137 developmental blocks, 112 are overexploited so far as groundwater is concerned. These blocks belong to the central part of Punjab. The author notes two significant factors that have determined the overexploitation of groundwater: one, the scarcity of surface water, especially canal water for irrigation and two, groundwater has advantage in terms of control over the timing and amount of water. The welfare implications in terms of rising costs of lifting water from the aquifer and falling water table are having negative effects on agricultural production.