Performance evaluation of drip irrigated kinnow orchard in South -Western Punjab – A case study

Kinnow is the most important fruit crops in south west Punjab. The studies were based on survey conducted at farmer’s field and regional climate data besides analysis of actual installation of drip irrigation system. It was estimated that drip system saves about 35-40 per cent irrigation water, and additional area is being cultivated. The water use efficiency in drip irrigation was 5.41 q/cm compared to 2.83 q/cm in surface irrigation method. Cost benefit ratio was found to be 2.27 in drip irrigation compared to 1.39 in case of surface irrigation. The adoption of drip irrigation system has resulted into higher yield, reduction in labour requirements, reduction in weed and pest incidence, saving in irrigation water and better fruit quality. The high initial cost of the system is one of the constraints, but the technoeconomical benefits of the system on kinnow crop fully compensate the initial investments.