Adoption of Drip Irrigation System in Southern Punjab-Pakistan: Challenges and Options

Abstract

The Government of Pakistan has invested 48.5 billion rupees in subsidizing the adoption of a drip irrigation system for farmers. To evaluate the suitability of adopting High-Efficiency Irrigation Systems (HEIS), a comparative study was conducted in Southern Punjab, a highly arid region. Efficient irrigation is a crucial factor for water conservation and increased crop production, aiming for ‘more crop per drop’. There are various methods of irrigation, and drip irrigation is a technique that involves delivering water directly to the plant root zone in the form of drops through emitters. Pakistan, being a water-scarce country with limited water resources, necessitates the achievement of maximum yield with minimal water usage. This objective can only be attained when farmers possess sound knowledge about HEIS such as bubblers, drip irrigation, and sprinkler systems. To achieve this, a survey was conducted in four districts of southern Punjab, Pakistan, aimed at assessing the current status, challenges, and potential of these irrigation techniques at the farm level, as well as understanding the farmers' perceptions about HEIS. This study is entirely based on the opinions of highly qualified engineers and experts actively involved in this field. It delves into the challenges surrounding drip irrigation systems in southern Punjab, such as a lack of technical expertise compared to traditional methods, financial constraints, low awareness about new technology, inadequate training and capacity building regarding drip irrigation systems, and a fundamental understanding of drip irrigation systems. Moreover, the study focuses on the recommendations provided by the respondents, including timely provision of backup support, government subsidies on drip irrigation systems to promote technology development, cost monitoring, and ensuring proper training. Total area under HEIS in southern Punjab was calculated to be 6496 acres between 2012 and 2016. The majority of these systems were found to be installed in orchards, whereas those installed for field crops were mostly non-functional. A significant number of systems were installed in an area ranging from 10-15 acres. According to the survey, 100% of farmers pointed out the lack of skilled labor for the installation and maintenance of HEIS, and 98% of farmers expressed a preference for using traditional methods. Moreover, about 96% of farmers recommended a timely supply of HEIS material at the site by the Supply and Service Company (SSC). Additionally, 90% of the respondents emphasized the need for increased financial support from the government for this system.