Irrigation
Gravity sprinkler irrigation
Water from the reservoirs passes through high-density polythene pipes laid-out
with hydrants in different experimental plots and nurseries covering approximately five hectares of land. The force of the gravitational flow is sufficient to activate simple sprinklers without additional power. These are used to irrigate different field plots. The sprinkler irrigation system helps reduce run-off and soil loss.
Drip Irrigation
Drip irrigation is a method that aims to provide only as much water to plants as they need, and only where they need it, thus reducing losses from run-off and evaporation. Drip irrigation is demonstrated off-site in a farmer’s field in Tripeni village. Easy drip irrigation is also known as trickle irrigation or micro-irrigation, it enhances water use efficiency in row crops (vegetables, tea, coffee, and other soft fruits) and vine crops where one or more emitters can be provided for each plant. It can minimize leaching and fertilizer and nutrient loss. It can also maintain moisture within the root zone of the plant.
Treadle pump
Treadle pump is a simple, cheap, and effective device for lifting water by alternate up and down movement of the legs on the bamboo treadle. It is recommended for lifting water up to 20 ft (vertical distance) from the water source which is more than that by a hand pump. It can be used for various purposes such as irrigation and water for domestic use. The pump does not require electricity or other external fueling system and therefore can be easily replicated in the hills.
