Irrigation is essential in India because
(i) India is an agricultural country. Hence, round the year supply of water is essential.
(ii) Rainfall is insufficient and unevenly distributed.
(iii) India has a yearlong agricultural season, but the rainfall is seasonal. Thus, irrigation ensures yearlong cultivation.
(iv) Crops like rice, wheat, Jute and sugarcane require plenty of water which can be provided only through irrigation.
(v) Due to growing population, there is a great demand for food which is fulfilled by bringing all possible regions under cultivation and providing irrigation to them.
(vi) Some parts of India are drought prone and are known for uncertain rainfall. Irrigation becomes indispensable in such parts of the nation.