Archive · 23 Jul 2025
Smart Irrigation Plan Could Save Farmers Up to 30% Water
Scientists at IIT Bombay have created a smart irrigation plan to help farmers use less water.
They use a computer model that looks at the weather forecast and how wet the soil is.
This helps farmers know when to water their crops.
In a test, farmers saved up to 30% of water without growing less food.
The system can also help prevent wasting water when rain is expected.
The scientists are now expanding this plan to other areas and crops to help farmers use water more efficiently.
IIT Bombay research suggests smart irrigation can save farmers up to 30% water.
A computer model uses weather forecasts and soil moisture data to predict irrigation needs.
Pilot studies in Nashik, Maharashtra, showed water savings without yield reduction.
The model was extended to five crops in drought-prone Bankura, West Bengal.
Researchers plan to expand the advisory system with sensors and farmer collaboration.
- Who
- Researchers at IIT Bombay and the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, and farmers.
- What
- A smart irrigation plan to help farmers save water.
- When
- Research conducted and reported in July.
- Where
- Mumbai (IIT Bombay), Nashik, and Bankura (West Bengal).
- Why
- To help farmers conserve water and improve crop management.
- Organization
- IIT Bombay
- Partners
- IITM Pune
- Potential Water Savings
- Up to 30%
- Location of Pilot Study
- Nashik, Maharashtra
- Crops Studied
- Grape, Maize, Wheat, Sunflower, Groundnut, Sugarcane
- Key Data Input
- Weather forecast and soil moisture data