Introduction:
The introduction of irrigation in the Stage-I command area of the canal took place in 1960. This initiative played a crucial role in improving agricultural productivity and ensuring a sustainable water supply for the region.

Explanation:
The introduction of irrigation in the Stage-I command area of the canal in 1960 marked a significant milestone in the development of the region's agricultural sector. This step was taken to address the growing water needs of the area and to enhance agricultural productivity.

Benefits of Irrigation:
Irrigation has numerous benefits for agriculture, including:
1. Increased crop yield: Irrigation helps provide a consistent and reliable water supply to crops, leading to increased yields and improved quality of produce.
2. Drought mitigation: In regions prone to drought, irrigation can help mitigate the impact of water scarcity on crops by ensuring a continuous supply of water.
3. Improved soil fertility: Irrigation can help leach out salts from the soil, preventing soil salinity and improving fertility.
4. Enhanced cropping intensity: With irrigation, farmers can grow multiple crops in a year, leading to increased cropping intensity and higher agricultural output.

Impact on the Stage-I Command Area:
The introduction of irrigation in the Stage-I command area had several positive impacts:
1. Increased agricultural production: Irrigation allowed farmers in the command area to cultivate their lands throughout the year, resulting in increased agricultural production.
2. Improved livelihoods: The increase in agricultural production translated into improved livelihoods for farmers, as they were able to earn higher incomes and improve their standard of living.
3. Reduced dependence on rainfall: With irrigation, farmers were no longer solely reliant on rainfall for their agricultural activities. This provided them with greater control over water availability and reduced the risk of crop failure during periods of drought.
4. Expansion of cultivated area: The introduction of irrigation opened up new opportunities for farmers to expand the cultivated area, as they were no longer limited by the availability of rainfall.

Conclusion:
The introduction of irrigation in the Stage-I command area of the canal in 1960 played a pivotal role in transforming the agricultural landscape of the region. It brought about increased agricultural productivity, improved water management, and provided farmers with a more secure and sustainable source of water for their crops. This development significantly contributed to the economic growth and overall well-being of the community in the command area.