Only 31% groundwater in Haryana suitable for high-quality irrigation: Agri varsity study

Hisar: In a significant step towards sustainable agriculture and scientific water management, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University vice-chancellor Prof Baldev Raj Kamboj on Monday unveiled Haryana's groundwater quality map, prepared by scientists of the university's Department of Soil Science. The map provides district-wise scientific data on groundwater quality, irrigation suitability and crop management strategies across the state. Addressing the gathering, Prof Kamboj said the findings revealed that only 31.83% of Haryana's groundwater falls under the "good quality" category, suitable for irrigation of most crops. Around 30.04% of groundwater was found to be marginally saline, which can still be effectively used for salt-tolerant crops with proper management practices. He said the groundwater quality map would serve as an important tool for farmers and agricultural planners in selecting suitable crops, improving irrigation management and adopting region-specific farming techniques. The vice-chancellor added that the project was carried out under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research's (ICAR) All India Coordinated Research Project on Management of Salt-Affected Water and Soil Salinity in Agriculture. University director Dr Rajbir Garg said scientific management of water resources is essential for ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability and increasing farmers' income while conserving natural resources. Meanwhile, Dr Dinesh Tomar shared detailed findings of the survey, stating that 6.04% groundwater was categorised as saline water, 19.50% as high-SAR saline water, 5.67% as slightly sodic water, 1.66% as sodic water and 5.26% as highly sodic water. Experts believe the map will help farmers make informed decisions regarding crop selection and irrigation practices according to the quality of groundwater available in their respective regions, thereby improving farm productivity and soil health while promoting sustainable agricultural development. MSID: 131330829 413 |