1Department of Economics, Tangla College, Tangla-784 521, Assam, India
2Department of Economics, Mahapurusha Srimanta Sankaradeva Viswavidyalaya, Nagaon-782 001, Assam, India
*Corresponding Author: Pallavi Sarma, Department of Economics, Tangla College, Tangla-784 521, Assam, India. pallavisarma5@gmail.com
Micro-irrigation technologies have become crucial to modern agricultural systems for improving water-use efficiency, crop productivity and sustainability. In Assam, despite abundant rainfall, uneven distribution and recurring dry spells create seasonal water stress, making micro-irrigation vital. However, adoption remains limited due to high installation costs, fragmented landholdings and lack of awareness. This review synthesizes findings from research studies, government reports, institutional assessments and field-level experiences across Assam and the north-eastern region. Literature from AAU, ICAR-NEH Region, NMMI, PMKSY and state agriculture departments was critically examined to assess economic, agronomic and environmental impacts. Micro-irrigation technologies significantly improve water-use efficiency (25-55 per cent), crop yields (18-32 per cent) and reduce production costs (20-40 per cent). Adoption enhances fertilizer efficiency, reduces labour requirements and supports crop diversification toward high-value horticulture and plantation crops. District-level studies confirm notable gains in productivity and income among adopters. Government schemes like PMKSY-RKVY have expanded micro-irrigation coverage, but socio-economic and technical barriers persist.
Agricultural productivity, Drip irrigation, Economic impact, Micro-irrigation technologies, Policy interventions, Sprinkler irrigation, Sustainable agriculture, Water-use efficiency
