What is a major goal of irrigation in the context of water usage?

Irrigation plays a crucial role in agriculture by providing a controlled water supply to crops, which is essential for their growth and development. The primary goal of irrigation systems is to ensure that plants receive adequate moisture, particularly in areas where rainfall is insufficient or unreliable. By doing so, irrigation supports agricultural productivity through improved crop yields and enhanced food security.

With proper irrigation, farmers can optimize their land use, allowing for the cultivation of a wider variety of crops and the ability to maintain production even during dry periods. This is especially important in regions that may experience fluctuating weather patterns or drought conditions.

Additionally, while enhancing public water supply, increasing thermal power generation, and reducing domestic water consumption are all important aspects of water management, they are not the primary focus of irrigation practices. Instead, irrigation is specifically designed to directly benefit agricultural applications and ensure that farms can thrive, thereby contributing to overall food production and agricultural sustainability.