Mechanized Irrigation Innovation Project

Approved

The project will provide long-term sustainable solutions to increase year-round access to irrigation water in two districts of Madhesh Province in the Terai by constructing a large-scale network of DTWs with dedicated electricity distribution networks. The MOM of the tube well irrigation schemes will be contracted to a third-party operator, using a DBO modality. On-demand irrigation services will be provided to the farmers by the MOM operator against prepaid volumetric payment systems. The project will also provide specific institutional and capacity development support for the water users to develop self-sustained and long-term crop intensification and diversification, and market support services. The project area was selected to serve farmers who do not currently receive surface irrigation water. The project is aligned with the following impact: a self-reliant, sustainable, competitive, and inclusive agricultural sector attained; and livelihoods, food and nutrition security improved (footnote 10). The project will have the following outcome: agricultural productivity in the project area increased. Improved climate resilience is expected to be achieved by developing high performance irrigation systems in terms of reliability, efficiency, equity, and sustainability. This will contribute to increased food security and mitigate climate shocks on seasonal harvests and food prices. The development of groundwater piped field distribution systems will minimize water conveyance and field application losses. It will contribute to mitigate future climate change impact on irrigation water demand and supply.