Background <p>Water scarcity poses a significant constraint to agricultural productivity worldwide, affecting crop growth, yield, and quality across various regions. In water-scarce environments, the combined application of drip irrigation and mulching has become a common practice for optimizing water use.</p> Aim <p>This study aimed to assess the influence of different irrigation levels, based on crop-evapotranspiration (ETc) and organic mulches on the growth, yield, soil properties, and economic returns of French bean in mid-hill region of Himachal Pradesh, India.</p> Methods <p>The experiment was conducted using various combinations of drip irrigation levels (100%, 80%, and 60% ETc) and organic mulches, including grass and pine needle mulch, along with a control (no mulch and surface irrigation). Observations were recorded for yield and yield attributes, available soil macronutrients, soil microbial viability, water use efficiency (WUE), and economic performance.</p> Results <p>The treatment I₂M₁, comprising drip irrigation at 80% ETc with grass mulch, significantly improved plant height, number of pods per plant, and reduced days to harvest, ultimately yielding the highest production among all treatments. This combination enhanced soil macronutrient availability, microbial viability, and WUE, achieving water savings of 32.26% compared to the control. Moreover, I₂M₁ demonstrated a favorable benefit–cost ratio (BCR) of 2.45, indicating its economic viability.</p> Conclusion <p>Drip irrigation at 80% ETc combined with grass mulch proved to be the most efficient and cost-effective strategy for optimizing water use, improving yield, and enhancing soil health. The findings underscore the potential of integrated irrigation and mulching practices in addressing water scarcity, boosting agricultural productivity, and strengthening food security.</p>