The varied geophysical and ecological region is a challenge that we must consider before advising or implying any irrigation technology for implementation. The technology that is suitable for the Terai may not be suitable for the hills and visa versa. Technology at a place with scarce water will certainly be different from the technology adopted at a place with sufficient water.

So far the Department of Irrigation has tried to develop different irrigation systems in areas with sufficient water resources. Since there is no possibility of acquiring additional land, what is required is controlled and adequate irrigation mechanism throughout the year.

The National Planning Commission’s classification shows that more than 50 per cent farmers fall under small landholding category (<1.02 ha in the Terai and <0.2 ha in the hills). It is apparent that the goal of poverty alleviation can only be achieved by targeting these most vulnerable groups living in the remote areas with marginal land. Without reaching out to these groups, the country cannot proceed toward alleviating poverty. Providing land to the landless is not a big deal. However, providing adequate supply of agricultural inputs and knowledge is a big challenge.

Apart from mega projects, the government should develop irrigation systems thus tapping the available sources. Big, medium size and even smaller irrigation systems and the rehabilitation of FMIS are the visible examples. Now along with the development of viable projects there is also a need of shift towards a holistic approach.

The government should focus on the development of unconventional technologies such as drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation. These irrigation devices are easy to handle with minimum initial and operating cost and are very suitable in the areas with scarce water resources. These devices not only have the higher efficiency (70 to 90 per cent) as compared to surface irrigation (25 to 30 per cent) but also require much less operation and maintenance cost. If implemented, these systems can result in higher gains.

The performance of irrigated agriculture is reported to be low. It is not only the lower efficiency of these systems to blame, but also many other factors such as inadequate extension services, short supply of fertiliser, pesticides and seeds. The development of irrigation systems and extension services required for the crops are the jobs of different nature, which have been given to two different ministries. Therefore, one can infer the lack of co-ordination could also be one of the reasons for not achieving the desired results.

Keeping in view the small nature of non-conventional irrigation projects equipped with micro-irrigation devices and the nature of extension services required side by side, an integrated approach towards meeting the needs of the target group is needed. Experience has shown that NGOs have been very effective in social mobilisation. A clear policy is needed to utilise them as well as other private sector service providers fully.