Design and Operation of Smallholder Irrigation in South Asia

A large amount of research has been carried out and a considerable body of literature has been generated on the socio-economic features of smallholder irrigation, in particular, as well as the technical aspects of irrigation, in general. However, the problems of applying such technology to smallholder irrigation are less well covered. This paper presents the primary sociological, economic and technical factors influencing the design and operation of smallholder irrigation in South Asia. The main emphasis is placed on problems. The aim is to define the problems, without necessarily acknowledging any obligation to present solutions. Rather, the available options are described and possible direction of further development are suggested. Practical experience and illustrations, primarily from India, are presented.