economics of on-farm development - Institute for Social and ...

Given the dynamics, problems and constraints as discussed above. it may
be concluded that reorienting the scope <strong>of</strong> irrigation projects in favour <strong>of</strong> crop
diversification. especially, coconut. needs further investment at the system !evel
to redesign the irrigation structures for facilitating irrigation <strong>of</strong> these crops. that
are grown in homesteads, much above the low lying paddy fields. This also calls
for huge investment at the farm level in terms <strong>of</strong> OFD to irrigate coconut
according to the conventional basin irrigation method. As the existing coconut
palms are <strong>of</strong> the traditional variety. an important step is needed to initiate a
massive replanting programme for coconut with HYV planting, coupled with
R&D support. The crops like banana. arecanut. vegetable. tapioca. may also be
brought under irrigation by redesigning water distribution netwroks ..
Tht issues in water distrihution and management in irrigation commands
In Kerala are yet to receive adequate attention in the irrigation management
literature. A possible explanation for this could be the lack <strong>of</strong> farmer interest in
irrigated farming per se. Furthermore. there are not many reports or complaints
on inequitable distribution <strong>of</strong> water and water- related conflicts across the canal
commands in the state. However. based on the findings <strong>of</strong> the present study.
some <strong>of</strong> the watcr management related constraints could bc identified as: (i)
inadequate supply <strong>of</strong> water across the canal reaches. (ii) non-pricing <strong>of</strong> water and
the subsequent wasteful utilisation; (iii) lack <strong>of</strong> efficient co-ordination <strong>of</strong> water
management activities. and (iv) non-functioining <strong>of</strong> water users associations.
An important aspect with respect to water distribution is that there are
wide differences in water requirements <strong>of</strong> different crops in irrigation commands.
The water distribution plan needs to be flexible so as to cater to the water
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