Which of the following is/are the advantage/advantages of practicing drip irrigation?

1. Reduction of weed
2. Reduction in soil salinity
3. Reduction in soil erosion

Select the correct answer using the code given below

1. 1 and 2 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. None of the above is an advantage of practicing drip irrigation

Explanation

Advantage 1 is correct

• Drip irrigation supplies water directly to the root zone, reducing moisture on the soil surface and thereby limiting weed growth

Advantage 2 is incorrect

• Drip irrigation improves water efficiency but does not directly reduce soil salinity; salinity control requires periodic flushing of salts.

Advantage 3 is correct

• By applying water slowly and directly to the soil, drip irrigation minimises surface runoff, significantly reducing soil erosion.

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only; Difficulty Level: Easy