S. (Senthilkumar) Kalimuthu: "Saving water? Analysis of options for rice-based farms in Tamil Nadu, India"

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5 Sep 2008 13:30
Unit: Wageningen University
Location: Aula, building 362, Gen. Foulkesweg 1, Wageningen
Organisation: Wageningen University
Promotor: prof.dr. K. Giller (Plant Production Systems)
Co Promotor: Dr. P.S. Bindraban, Dr. N. de Ridder

 A modified rice cultivation method to increase water productivity in water-intensive rice cultivation was evaluated on-station and on-farm in Tamil Nadu, India. The new method with modifications on planting, irrigation, weeding, and nutrient management gave a 1.5 t ha–1 yield advantage and 41% water saving over conventional methods. The biophysical and socio-economic characteristics, which underlie the functioning of the four rice based farms in the region affect the potential for adoption of the novel cultivation practices. A change in government policies (rules and regulations, pricing, institution building and infrastructure development, as well as training and education to farmers) is needed to enhance adoption. Modifying rice cultivation and water pricing was effective in achieving both the objectives of farmers (i.e. maximizing income) and the society at large (i.e. increasing the use efficiency of water resources). As the policy impacts on farm types differ water quota provision is a plausible option to protect the poor resource endowed farmers, who are likely most affected by the water pricing policies.
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