Traditional Practices of Water Scheduling in Farmer-Managed Irrigation Systems in Central Himalaya, India

Abstract

A study was conducted to examine the dynamics of water scheduling in a farmer-managed irrigation system in a small mountain watershed (Tharigad) of the central Himalaya. Despite being ancient, these systems perform even better today because of the proper water scheduling managed by the local community. These water distribution schedules functioned smoothly until recent times and helped the farmers to meet irrigation needs during the crucial period of crop germination when other areas of the region suffered water crises. The distribution of water was decided by an irrigation committee on the basis of the area to be irrigated and the distance of the village from the source. Different schedules for water distribution provided the flexibility of the system and mutual understanding to avoid user conflicts. By this means, it was possible to modify water distribution schedules for mutual benefit after allowing for the diversion of water from the source for drinking water. This special feature of water scheduling helped in managing the system so that high conveyance efficiency (84% to 92%) and good application efficiency (83% to 95%) could be assured throughout the season. Performance of these schemes was maintained irrespective of size.