As per the National Water Policy (NWP) 2002 document, in terms of water allocation priorities, irrigation is the second priority area after drinking water. Irrigation being the largest consumer of fresh water, the aim has been to get optimal productivity per unit of water. The irrigation potential through major, medium and minor irrigation projects is increasing steadily. It has increased from 22.6 million hectares (mha) in 1951 to about 102.77 mha at the end of the 10th Five-Year Plan.
In irrigation planning, cost-effective irrigation options, and appropriate irrigation technology for optimal use of water has been the key issues of concern of government, NGOs and international organizations. Disparities in the availability of water between head-reach and tail-end farms and between large and small farms need to be obviated by adoption of a rotational water distribution system and supply of water on a volumetric basis subject to certain ceilings and rational pricing. Scientific water management, farm practices and sprinkler and drip system of irrigation are being adopted in different parts of the country.
Small and marginal farmers in hilly and remote areas of Uttarakhand face several problems related to irrigation of their small land holdings: use of water for irrigation, microfinance availability for infrastructure facilities and implements. In this context, we would like to request members to share:
Your suggestions will help us to formulate a strategy and innovative programs for supporting small and marginal farmers in providing microfinance services for irrigation through banks/MFIs. It will also guide line department and NGOs of Uttarkashi for developing better community based water management systems.