Sugarcane is considered the least water-efficient crop due to its high water requirement, often exceeding 2,000 mm annually, making it reliant on extensive irrigation in many regions. Its cultivation tends to prioritize high water usage over yield per water unit, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas where water resources are limited, leading to significant environmental strains. This context highlights the need for sustainable agricultural practices that enhance water efficiency, a critical consideration in India’s agricultural policy and food security strategies, themes frequently examined in UPSC Prelims GS Paper I.