Impact of Drip Irrigation in Sugarcane Cultivation in Mandya District of Karnataka, India

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of drip irrigation on sugarcane cultivation in Mandya district, Karnataka, considering the challenges posed by traditional flood irrigation methods and the increasing demand for water resources. The research compares the adoption of drip and flood irrigation, analyzing socio-economic characteristics, cropping patterns, and the comparative economics of sugarcane cultivation under both methods. Externality concept and Partial budgeting technique was emphasized to estimate the additional benefit derived from drip irrigation over flood irrigation. The study reveals that drip irrigation leads to higher water use efficiency, improved crop quality, and environmental sustainability. The adoption of drip irrigation in sugarcane cultivation results in significant economic benefits, with higher net returns and increased yields then farmers following flood irrigation. The findings highlight the positive externality associated with drip irrigation, contributing to water conservation, reduced labor costs, and increased agricultural sustainability with an additional benefit of around Rs. 41,000 derived due to drip adoption over flood irrigation in Sugarcane cultivation. As Karnataka faces evolving challenges in agriculture, the widespread adoption of drip irrigation emerges as a pivotal factor in ensuring the prosperity of sugarcane cultivation and addressing environmental concerns.