The current research analysis by International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in cooperation with ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region is focused on the identification of agricultural water use and land scaling effects to rural livelihoods in the Indo-Gangetic basin (IGB) with an emphasis on Bihar. In particular, water use and landholding factors are widely acknowledged as major determinants of agricultural development and hence rural wealth in IGB basin and Bihar. High attention is mainly given to irrigation policy while land is often apprehended through soil productivity aspects.
However, little importance is given to land scaling and water consumption effects in respect to agricultural development and rural livelihoods. Further, the valuation of agricultural water is another issue that has not been sufficiently elaborated. Another major aspect which is still poorly investigated pertains to farmers' perceptions towards the significance of institutional and environmental related parameters of agricultural water. Last but not least, little attention has been given to crucial socio-demographic indicators which could act as potential drivers to farmers' perceptions towards environmental related parameters of agricultural water.
Read More
