Why is there greater emphasis on minor irigation projects rather than ...
Emphasis on Minor Irrigation Projects
There is a greater emphasis on minor irrigation projects over large multipurpose projects for several reasons:
Cost-effectiveness
- Minor irrigation projects are generally more cost-effective than large multipurpose projects. They require less investment and resources, making them more feasible for implementation in areas with limited funding.
Local Benefits
- Minor irrigation projects provide direct benefits to local communities by improving water availability for agriculture, drinking, and other domestic uses. This helps in enhancing livelihoods and reducing poverty at the grassroots level.
Flexibility
- Minor irrigation projects are often more flexible in terms of design and implementation. They can be easily adapted to suit the specific needs of a particular region or community, making them more sustainable in the long run.
Environmental Impact
- Large multipurpose projects can have significant environmental impacts, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and displacement of communities. On the other hand, minor irrigation projects are usually smaller in scale and have less adverse effects on the environment.
Community Participation
- Minor irrigation projects often involve greater community participation in planning, implementation, and management. This leads to increased ownership and sustainability of the projects, as the local communities are more invested in their success.
In conclusion, while large multipurpose projects have their own benefits, the greater emphasis on minor irrigation projects is justified due to their cost-effectiveness, local benefits, flexibility, minimal environmental impact, and increased community participation.