Rain Pipe Irrigation in India-Reinventing Micro Irrigation

Abstract

Growing water scarcity and the inefficiencies of conventional irrigation methods have posed significant challenges to sustainable agriculture, especially in semi-arid and rainfed regions. Rain pipe irrigation a low-cost,  low-pressure micro-irrigation technology has emerged as a practical solution to enhance water use efficiency while maintaining crop productivity. By simulating natural rainfall through laser-punched perforated pipes, the system offers uniform water distribution, reduced evaporation losses, and minimal soil disturbance under low pressure. This review critically examines the working principles, system components, agronomic and economic advantages, crop suitability, environmental implications, and limitations of rain pipe irrigation. Emphasis is also placed on its relevance to smallholder farmers and its role in climate change adaptation. The paper concludes with strategies to overcome implementation challenges and highlights future directions for research, innovation.