What percentage of water is used in irrigation?

It is observed that irrigation is the most important use water and approximately 70% of the water from world’s fresh water resources is being used in irrigation. Water is allowed to trickle onto the soil surface at very low rate i.e., 2 to 20 liters per hour through small plastic pipes fitted with drippers. This system of irrigating plants, supplies water closes to the root areas and provides the required moisture and nutrients for growth. Since water is supplied in limited quantities, frequency of application is high.