Does Improved Water Productivity Matter for the Farmers? A Case of Water-Efficient Rice Production from Pakistan

Abstract

Rice is an important crop of Pakistan being the third most important export commodity in agriculture sector earning large revenues. This study was conducted with the rice farmers collaborating with Water Productivity project in Sheikhupura district in Pakistan. The study presents a comparison between the findings from a baseline study conducted in early 2017 and end 2018 based on 21 farmers selected from head, mid and tail of water channels. The objective of the analysis was to assess the economic impact of adopting improved irrigation practices and other related agronomic practices to increase water productivity. Two cropping seasons were compared between 2017 and 2018 based on economic returns from improved rice production practices. The data were collected through focus group discussions, individual interviews, and field evidences of use of technology and costs incurred and registered. The analysis is based on per acre inputs and output of paddy crop. The analysis shows that the net per acre revenue received by farmers significantly increased. The increase in revenue is mainly attributed to efficient irrigation practices and adoption of co-related better agronomic practices. The results prove economic viability of water efficient techniques and agronomic practices. The study also documents the effectiveness of public-private partnership aspects which served as a driving force for adoption of water productive approach.

Keywords: Paddy; Rice; Water Productivity; Water Economics; Pakistan; Business Case

DOI: 10.7176/DCS/9-9-07

Publication date:September 30^th 2019