Maximization of Productivity and Water Saving through Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) in Rice under Tamil Nadu Irrigated Agriculture Modernization Project (TN IAMP) Aliyar Sub Basin Farmers of Tamil Nadu, India

Abstract

TN IAMP-II Aliyar sub basin scheme operated by Agricultural College and Research Institute (TNAU), Vazhavachanur, Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu state has conducted large-scale front-line demonstrations on Alternate Wetting and Drying Irrigation (AWDI) practice in transplanted paddy growing in 11 villages of Tiruvannamalai district at 100 farmer’s holdings during kharif season of 2019-20 and 2020-21. The data on productivity, economics and water saving in demonstrated plots were compared with Flood irrigation 1200 mm (Farmer practice). The demonstrated plot yield was 64.2 q / ha compared with farmer practice (51.7 q / ha). The yield increase was 24.3 per cent. The extension gap, technology gap and technology index were 12.6 q ha-1, 5.8 q ha-1 and 8.29 per cent, respectively. The higher gross return (Rs. 128,443 ha-1), higher net return (Rs. 74,319ha-1) and B: C (2.38) was observed in demonstrated plot compared to farmers’ practice plot (Flood irrigation). Higher yield and returns due to reduced cost of cultivation, higher grain yield, net returns and more water saving in AWDI (24.7%).Water depth of 5 cm was maintained in the demo plot (T2) over the farmer’s practice (T1) (Water depth 30.0 cm) and the field water level was measured by Field water Tube. Created awareness and motivated the farmers to adopt AWDI practices in TN IAMP Phase II Aliyar sub basin of Tiruvannamalai district.