Irrigation & Drainage Engineering

The Department of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering at Mahamaya College of Agricultural Engineering & Technology was established in the academic year 2003–04, coinciding with the inception of the undergraduate programme. Since its establishment, the department has grown steadily in terms of academic offerings, infrastructure, and research initiatives. The M.Tech. programme in Irrigation and Drainage Engineering was introduced in 2011–12 to strengthen postgraduate education and research in this critical domain. Further advancement led to the commencement of the Ph.D. programme in 2022–23, enabling the department to contribute more effectively to academic excellence and technological development in agricultural water management. The department plays a crucial role in teaching, research, and extension activities, aiming to address the pressing challenges of efficient irrigation and drainage systems in agriculture. Its core objective is to provide students with a thorough understanding of soil-water-plant relationships and to apply engineering principles to design and manage irrigation systems suitable for diverse agricultural scenarios. Emphasis is laid on both traditional and modern irrigation techniques such as surface irrigation, sprinkler systems, and drip irrigation, as well as drainage methods to ensure optimal field conditions. The curriculum is designed to offer a balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling students to gain hands-on experience with real-world applications. Advanced courses expose students to state-of-the-art technologies and innovative water-saving techniques, including the integration of sensors, automation, and climate-responsive irrigation. To stay aligned with industry trends, the department incorporates the use of computer applications in agricultural water management, such as simulation models, irrigation scheduling software, and hydrological modeling tools. It also encourages students to explore the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and programming languages like Python and MATLAB for water resources planning and management. In addition to academics, the department engages in community-based extension activities and applied research projects, often in collaboration with government agencies and research institutions. These initiatives aim to disseminate knowledge and practical solutions to farmers and stakeholders, ensuring sustainable water use and improved agricultural productivity. Overall, the Department of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering is dedicated to nurturing competent engineers and researchers who can contribute to the development of efficient, sustainable, and smart irrigation systems for the future of agriculture.