This booklet titled “Water and livelihoods - SRI in large irrigation projects in Andhra Pradesh” details the System of Rice Intensification (SRI) method of paddy cultivation carried out by JalaSpandana in Rajolibanda Diversion Scheme, Priyadharshini Jurala Project and Kurnool Cuddapah Canal in Krishna Basin in Andhra Pradesh. It highlights the different approach experimented in carrying out training programme, SRI as water conservation technology, livelihoods, myths and realities of SRI, cost benefit, chemical application in SRI, etc. JalaSpandana carried out similar exercise in Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
It is meant for capacity building of water users in an integrated manner. JalaSpandana with its experience in water and crop management issues arrived at the conclusion that any intervention programme left to government agencies alone does not reap desired results due to inherent problems encompassing financial, human resources, skill, etc. Further, the extension services towards water management is the lowest priority of any development programmes taken up by governments.
JalaSpandana designed the participatory training programme as a part of this exercise that facilitated participation of farmers, representatives of water users associations, department officials and other stakeholders in designing and implementing the programme through regular analysis of the situation and evolving appropriate strategies. Progressive farmers and local youth belonging to farming community were extensively used as resource persons.
For more information refer JalaSpandana website