TECHNO-ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF INTEGRATING CANAL WATER HARVESTING AND DRIP IRRIGATION FOR POMEGRANATE PRODUCTION IN A DRY ECO-REGION

Abstract

Water management plays an important role in sustainable and quality production of pomegranate. The present study envisaged the scope for water resource development and its utilization through a drip system in a canal irrigated dry eco-region where water is a limited resource. Canal water harvested in a secondary reservoir and re-used by a drip system in a pomegranate orchard to enhance quality and productivity. Results showed better soil moisture availability under a drip irrigation regime compared to existing surface irrigation practices. Drip irrigation saved 32% water and resulted in a 10.9% reduction in fruit cracking, resulting in a higher marketable yield and water productivity compared to surface irrigation. Drip irrigated trees produced larger size arils and resulted in higher juice recovery compared to surface irrigated fruit. Better quality and productivity resulted in higher economic benefits under the drip system. Net present value of additional income was INR 139,000 for the drip system. Results showed the potential of integrating a drip system and canal water harvested for enhancing quality and productivity of pomegranate growth in a dry eco-region.