Irrigation is the artificial application of water to land to assist in growing crops. The key aspects of irrigation management include regulating water resources efficiently based on soil properties, crop water needs, climate, and ensuring equitable distribution. Proper irrigation management is important for maximizing agricultural output, conserving water resources, and protecting the environment. India's irrigation development has increased the gross irrigated area from 22.5 million hectares in the 1950s to over 75 million hectares currently through successive five-year plans.