UPSC CSE Prelims
Question 99
With reference to micro-irrigation, which of the following statements is/are correct ?
- Fertilizer/nutrient loss can be reduced.
- It is the only means of irrigation in dry land farming.
- In some areas of farming, receding of ground water table can be checked.
View correct answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Correct Option: C
Explanation: Micro-irrigation delivers water precisely to the root zone and can reduce nutrient leaching and some groundwater demand, but it is not the only irrigation method in dryland farming.
Statement / Item-wise Analysis:
1: Correct - Correct: fertigation and targeted watering can reduce fertiliser runoff and leaching.
2: Incorrect - Incorrect: drip/sprinkler irrigation are options, not the sole means of irrigation in dryland agriculture.
3: Correct - Correct with conditions: greater water-use efficiency can reduce pumping and help slow local groundwater decline.
Option-wise Analysis:
A: Incorrect - omits supported item 3.
B: Incorrect - includes unsupported item 2; omits supported item 1.
C: Correct - includes the supported statements and excludes the unsupported ones.
D: Incorrect - includes unsupported item 2.