Water Management in Agriculture: A Bibliometric Analysis of Irrigation Practices and Sustainable Resource Use

Abstract

This study examines global research trends in water management for agriculture using a bibliometric approach based on the Scopus database (2000–2025). The analysis identifies irrigation efficiency, groundwater conservation, soil salinity management, and sustainable agricultural practices as core themes shaping the field. Keyword evolution shows a clear transition from early hydrological and resource-based studies to contemporary research emphasizing precision irrigation, IoT-enabled water monitoring, and climate-resilient farming systems. Collaboration networks reveal India, China, and the United States as leading contributors to scientific production, supported by strong partnerships across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Institutional mapping highlights the role of major research bodies such as ICAR, CSIRO, and ICARDA in advancing interdisciplinary knowledge. The findings underscore the need for integrated policy strategies, adoption of smart irrigation technologies, and enhanced soil–water management to address global water scarcity and food security challenges. While limited by database scope and algorithmic constraints, this study provides a comprehensive overview of developments in agricultural water management and offers a foundation for future research and policy formulation.