Hydroponics projects from MP, Karnataka, Australia, and Hungary receive survey support
The Economic Survey praised “Vertical Farming in Hydroponics” in Australia and Hungary’s “Flood Water Storage” project, but it also highlighted success stories in India involving “The Narayanpur Left Bank Canal (NLBC)” system in Karnataka and “Diversion-based Irrigation” system in two tribal-dominated districts of Madhya Pradesh.
The Narayanpur Left Bank Canal (NLBC) system in Karnataka was facing significant challenges, including insufficient water, manual gate control, and disproportionate water distribution. The government implemented an automation system, which included over 4,000 automated control and regulating gates, solar-powered integrated gates, and a master VSAT communication system. “These interventions have optimised water use efficiency, improved equitable distribution and enhanced overall agricultural productivity in the region,” the survey reported.
Also Read | Nutrifresh welcomes a Dutch delegation to their hydroponic farm
Smooth flow
Similarly, the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (AKRSP) implemented the Diversion-based Irrigation (DBI) system in Madhya Pradesh’s hilly and undulating Barwani and Khargone districts, resulting in seamless water flow to the farmer’s field.
DBI systems use gravity flow to redirect water from streams to agricultural fields. Since 2016, 13 DBI systems have been operational, irrigating up to 111 hectares of land and benefiting 93 farmers, according to the report. “The cost-effective nature of these systems, requiring approximately ₹300 per running meter, makes the DBI model viable for enhancing irrigation coverage in hilly terrains,” it stated.
The Survey also mentioned a successful vertical farming model with hydroponics that uses fresh water after desalinating sea water on an Australian farm. The system allows for tomato cultivation without soil, providing numerous benefits such as space efficiency, reduced water usage, and year-round production at Port Augusta Farm in South Australia.
Storing Floodwater
Tomatoes are grown in greenhouses using solar power from a dedicated plant on the farm, which also produces one million litres of fresh water per day by desalinating seawater from a distance of three kilometers. It produces 7,000 tonnes of tomatoes each year, accounting for 15% of Australia’s total crop on arid land.
Also Read | Hydroponics start-up Nutrifresh which produces pesticide-free fresh food raised $5 million
Another example, the Survey stated that in the Middle Tisza River Basin, temporary flood water storage in agricultural areas is being used to reduce flood risks and provide additional irrigation. “By storing excess floodwater in specific agricultural fields, the region can better control water levels and reduce the risk of flooding downstream. “This method not only protects infrastructure but also improves soil fertility by depositing nutrients from floodwaters, resulting in increased agricultural productivity,” it stated.
These interventions demonstrate innovative approaches to water management and agricultural productivity, with tailored solutions to specific regional challenges, according to the report.
Add Comment