Farmer-managed irrigation system (FMIS), which is predominantly a surface irrigation system in Nepal, accounts for 51 percent of the country’s total surface irrigated area and contributes significantly to national food security. With roots dating back a century, this irrigation system possesses robust social capital. Moreover, its significance is growing amidst the challenges posed by rising global warming and energy scarcity.
Traditional FMIS faces several challenges such as water scarcity, labour shortages due to outward migration, and increased operation and maintenance costs. As a result, many of them have become defunct or significantly reduced command areas in recent years. An illustrative case is the decline in the number of Rajkulos in Nepal.
While exploring solutions to revive FMIS, one promising solution could lie in integrating it with groundwater-based irrigation systems. Research and pilot initiatives conducted by the International Water Management Institute offer compelling evidence that such integration could effectively address the challenges.