Modernizing major and medium irrigation schemes in India: formulating a programme of change

Publication date: 10/06/2024
Extent: 38 pages

Contributions by: Martin Burton, Water Resources and Irrigation Management, UK; M. G. Shivakumar, Asian Development Bank; India; Rahul Sen, Water Resources Policy and Institutions, India; Kuppannan Palanisami, International Water Management Institute, India; and Lance Gore, Asian Development Bank, The Philippines

Chapter synopsis:

This chapter outlines the establishment of a national multi-year, multidisciplinary programme to modernize major and medium irrigation (and drainage schemes in India) under the Support for Irrigation Modernization Program. The programme is supported by the Asian Development Bank and implemented by concerned State Water Resources Departments in association with Central Water Commission under the Ministry of Jal Shakti on behalf of the Government of India. The chapter considers the need for modernization including the drivers and enablers for change, the changing dynamics of irrigated agriculture in India, the options for modernization, and the cost implications. The chapter discusses the key components of a modernization programme including the need for policy and legislation, institutional reform, water resources identification, planning and management, irrigation system modernization, incorporating infrastructure, management, operation and maintenance, agricultural reform, and modernization and upgrading of knowledge and information.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2023.0123.27