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Irrigation
The state of Andhra Pradesh (AP), India embarked on an ambitious program of reform to its irrigation sector In this large agricultural state, irrigation management has been revolutionized by transferring responsibility for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of irrigation schemes to groups of farmers In total, 10,292 Water User Associations (WUAs) have been created The reform required a number of very difficult changes, as the role of irrigation agency is gradually shifting from service provider to facilitator, and reform has not come without resistance and conflict However, early indications are overwhelmingly positive, as many irrigation systems are realizing increased revenues, an increase in irrigated area, and enhanced involvement of farmers in the operation of irrigation.
The Andhra Praadesh Technolody Service Ltd.(APTS) has provided a technology towards the changes. The programs aim to modernize AP’s government and vitalize its economy by making the providers of services such as irrigation, education, and health accountable to users and other stakeholders The emphasis is on making the reform process participatory through a process of extensive public consultations, and on achieving quick results.
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