Understanding gender and diversity dimensions of irrigation management for pro‐poor interventions

Abstract

AbstractThis paper offers a critical review and synthesis of key issues and lessons on gender and diversity dimensions of irrigation in the context of poverty alleviation interventions. The paper is a part of the multi‐country study carried out by the author at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in collaboration with national partners in six Asian countries (Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Pakistan and Vietnam) during 2001–2002. The paper suggests that, while making large contributions to irrigated agriculture, women depend on, and benefit from, irrigation water in a variety of ways including water uses for domestic and livelihood purposes. Gender and diversity aspects are critical in irrigation management that aims to address poverty issues. An understanding of these aspects is important for designing pro‐poor interventions in irrigated agriculture. Women and low socio‐economic groups have benefited where gender and diversity issues have been incorporated in policy formulation, project design and implementation. Designing the irrigation infrastructure such that the irrigation systems become multiple use systems can enhance the benefits of investments in irrigation for the poor women. Finally, the paper suggests that policy and project level interventions that aim to address gender and diversity issues need to focus not only on areas predominantly inhabited by the poor belonging to low castes, clans, tribes and ethnic minorities, but also in areas where such groups are in minorities. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.