Economic Evaluation of Mudimadagu Sub- Watershed project in Kolar District of Karnataka, India

Abstract

The study was undertaken in Srinivaspura taluk, Kolar district of Karnataka to analyse the economic benefits derived by watershed beneficiaries of Mudimadagu sub-watershed project implemented under Credit Institute for Reconstruction-watershed area project (KfW). Primary data of the study was collected from randomly selected 60 farmers from the project area which includes 30 watershed beneficiaries and 30 nonbeneficiaries. Data Collected were examined using Simpson’s index, cost and returns analysis and Garett’s ranking. Higher crop diversity was found among watershed beneficiaries than the non - beneficiaries with Simpson’s index values of 0.84 and 0.79 respectively. Production, productivity and net returns of the major crops cultivated was found higher in watershed area compared to Non-watershed area. Average Annual income for unit farm was found higher in watershed area with Rs. 2,98,855 compared to Non-watershed area with Rs1,73,189. Lack of awareness about benefits of watershed technology among the beneficiary farmers and poor participation by the farmers during training programmes conducted by the implementing agencies were the major constraints faced during the watershed project implementation. From the results it was clear that the watershed activities benefited farmers by enhancing their yield, net returns and overall income. It was also found that formation of watershed area farmers’ associations is necessary for the maintenance of soil and water conservation structures by watershed area development department.