Smart Irrigation Revolution: IIT Bombay's Innovative Model Saves Water

IIT Bombay, in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology in Pune, has unveiled a revolutionary irrigation model that could significantly reduce water usage in farming. This innovative approach uses advanced computer modeling techniques to incorporate weather forecasts and soil moisture data.

The model has proven capable of predicting irrigation needs up to three weeks in advance. This allows farmers to make informed decisions about water use, reducing waste and conserving precious groundwater resources. A pilot study conducted in Nashik, Maharashtra, revealed water savings of up to 30% without affecting crop yields.

The success of the Nashik pilot has prompted an expansion to diverse crops like maize, wheat, and sugarcane across drought-prone regions in West Bengal. Researchers now aim to scale this model by engaging local farmers and installing additional sensors to enhance accuracy and adaptability.

(With inputs from agencies.)