This document provides an introduction to irrigation engineering. It discusses the necessity of irrigation in India due to variable rainfall and the need to maximize crop production. The advantages of irrigation include increased food production, optimal crop benefits, and generation of hydroelectric power. However, disadvantages can include water pollution, rising water tables, and waterlogging from over-irrigation. The document also outlines different types of irrigation like surface, flood, and lift irrigation. It describes techniques used in India for water distribution to farms, such as free flooding, border flooding, check flooding and drip irrigation.