Types of Irrigation Management Transfer in India

Abstract

"The Government of India and many of the state governments have decided that irrigation management transfer is one means to help solve some major problems in the performance of irrigation systems in all types of irrigation systems. However, the policies and programs adopted by the states, although influenced by national policies, differ considerably. Each state has adopted or is considering adoption of irrigation management transfer policies that are adapted to a) cultural traditions and prior policies in the state, b) physical and ecological conditions in the state, and c) the goals of the irrigation agencies.

"This paper, using data from six states in India, identifies the major types of policies and arrangements being carried out and identifies the factors underlying the choices of management models made in each state. Some data on the level of operational, maintenance, financial, and agricultural performance is provided. Based on key elements, particularly the right and functions that are proposed for transfer from the government to the farmers, the paper proposes a typology of irrigation management transfer models in India and discusses the applicability of this typology in other parts of the world."