Assessing the Adoption and Utilization of Drip Irrigation Technology among Tapioca Farmers in Thuraiyur Taluk, Tiruchirappalli District, Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

Aims: The study examines the adoption and utilization of drip irrigation technology among tapioca farmers in Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. Study Design:  An ex-post-facto research design is used to collect data from 90 farmers across four villages. Place and Duration of Study: Thuraiyur taluk, Tiruchirappalli district, Tamil Nadu. The study has been conducted for a period of six months (April – September, 2024) Methodology: Out of the district’s eleven taluks, Thuraiyur had the highest number of tapioca farmers, making it ideal for this study. Four villages—Naganallur, Settikadu, Sobanapuram and Koppampatti—were chosen from Thuraiyur taluk for their significant tapioca cultivation and large farmer populations. A stratified random sampling method is used to select participants. The primary data are collected through structured questionnaires and personal interviews with farmers. Secondary data are obtained from relevant literature, reports and government records. The dependent variables are the adoption level of drip irrigation and the extent to which the farmers use the drip irrigation technology. Descriptive statistics mean, percentage and frequency distribution are used in the study. Results: Findings reveal that the majority of farmers (82.22%) demonstrated medium to high adoption of drip irrigation technology. Key practices like checking the workability of the foot valve and maintaining pipeline fittings are widely adopted, while more advanced techniques such as fertigation showed lower adoption levels. Drip irrigation was used universally for water management, with 87.80% of farmers acknowledging its role in reducing water usage and 83.30% citing reduced labor needs. Conclusion: However, only 46.70% of respondents reported increased yields, indicating potential gaps in system optimization. The study suggests the need for greater technical training, financial assistance and improved extension services to enhance the adoption of advanced drip irrigation practices. Policy measures, such as increased awareness of government schemes like PMKSY and accessible training programs, are recommended to maximize the benefits of drip irrigation in improving water efficiency, crop yield and sustainable farming practices.