India's agriculture water technology sector requires investments of Rs 500-600 crore to achieve widespread adoption of smart irrigation solutions even as the country faces a deepening water crisis, according to the latest report. The study by DCM Shriram on "The Investment Mismatch in AgWater" highlights that despite agriculture consuming the largest share of water resources while contributing 16 per cent to GDP and employing 55 per cent of the workforce, the sector struggles with efficiency and adequate funding. India has between 70-100 active AgWaterTech startups, but many risk closure due to investment hurdles, according to the report. "Limited data, long gestation periods, and the high proportion of small and marginal farmers make AgWaterTech less attractive to investors," it added. Ajay S Shriram -- Chairman and Senior Managing Director, DCM Shriram and Director of DCM Shriram Foundation -- emphasised the severity of the situation, saying, "Water is the most critical resource