Abstract:
This study examines how small scale farmers dealing with water scarcity adopt improved
water management practices to meet the challenges of climate change. This study was
conducted in Moneragala and Hambantota Districts by assessing a sample of 1,000
beneficiaries chosen from a drip irrigation system which was introduced by the Ministry of
Agriculture in Sri Lanka. A field survey was undertaken in collecting data where 'before and
after analyses' of the treatment group were selected where indicators relative to a comparable
sample of individuals outside the treatment were used. The socioeconomic impact on the
beneficiaries of this intervention was assessed using paired "t" test to determine changing
patterns and independent "t" tests to test differences in average annual income generated
before and after using the drip irrigation system. The impact of the drip irrigation system on
the housing condition and household facilities was assessed through field surveys which
showed an impressive, quantifiable improvement both to the state of the structures as well as
the facilities available therein. The source of household income and income generating
activity, change in household expenditure and user perception on drip irrigation system were
also assessed in order draw a better and clear picture of the change in livelihood of the farming
families in the sample. The annual average income of the households shows about 30%
increase in both districts which has led to a corresponding increase in expenditure and a higher
standard of living with a more commercial outlook. However, it should be noted that some
deficiencies, primarily in technology delivery and confidence building in rural communities
are evident in the current phase of the drip irrigation system. Thus, it is concluded that there
is an urgent need to enhance knowledge amongst all parties and to bridge the gap for the
efficient application of the new techniques. It is believed that the lack of farmers' confidence
in the modern techniques is due to the fear of their sophistication, the lack of knowledge on
them, and their high cost.
