Impact Analysis of Reclamation of Waterlogged Saline Soils through Subsurface Drainage Technology in Haryana

Abstract

Agriculture in the state is predominantly practiced by 68 per cent of small and marginal farmers. Waterlogging and soil salinity are threatening the sustainability of agricultural production on, approximately 0.5 m ha area in Haryana. Reclamation of these soils is necessary to increase food grain production to feed the ever increasing population of the country. Subsurface drainage technology is economically viable, as it removes excess salts and water from the root zone through leaching and creates favourable conditions for crop production. But, this technology can’t be afforded by small and marginal farmers to install in small scale as it requires capital, technical skill and manpower. Haryana operational pilot project in Haryana is having a lead role in installing this technology in the farmers’ fields with almost free of cost and reclaimed more than 9000 ha saline area. The current study has assessed the impact of drainage technology on soil salinity and land productivity of Banmandori drainage area where 277 ha was reclaimed with installation of subsurface drainage. The study reveals that after introduction of subsurface drainage, the water table depth has gone down to 13.7 per cent and drain water salinity has showed a tremendous reduction of 98 per cent. The yield obtained with drainage has 10-20 per cent more yield advantage over the yield obtained without drainage. The net income obtained from drainage was 30- 40 per cent more compare to without drainage situation.