Addressing water scarcity in agricultural irrigation: By exploring alternative water resources for sustainable irrigated agriculture

This review paper addresses challenges in the water sector, particularly in irrigated agriculture, aiming to propose solutions for meeting irrigation demands while promoting global food security and sustainable development, notably SDG 6. Structured around three facets: empowering farmers, strengthening conventional sources of irrigation water and harnessing non-conventional water resources, it emphasizes the significance of exploring blue water resources due to precipitation variability. Many irrigation systems operate below efficiency, offering productivity enhancement opportunities. Water management in agriculture spans various levels, involving farmers as key stakeholders. In addition to surface water, alternative sources like rainwater, grey water, recycled wastewater and groundwater can meet irrigation needs. Rainfed agriculture, facing challenges from erratic rainfall, can benefit from rainwater harvesting and under-irrigation practices. Wastewater emerges as a pivotal resource, particularly in periurban areas, necessitating appropriate safety measures. This paper presents the General Report of Congress Question 64 of the ICID Congress in Visakhapatnam. It provides a unique opportunity to focus on how alternative water resources might enhance the resilience of irrigation systems and bridge the gap between water supply and demand. The subdivision of the paper into three distinct subtopics guides research contributions, encouraging responses that delve into the specific themes of reinforcing, harnessing and empowering, all within the context of sustainable irrigated agriculture.