Impact of electricity subsidies on groundwater exploitation in rice and maize cultivation in Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

Rice and maize are crucial for food security and livelihoods in Andhra Pradesh, where electricity subsidies heavily influence groundwater extraction. This study explored the effect of these subsidies on groundwater use for paddy and maize in Anantapur district, sampling 160 farmers across selected blocks. Primary data related to groundwater extraction before and after irrigation subsidy (agricultural year, 2021-22) were collected for the study. Results showed a significant rise in groundwater use following subsidy implementation, particularly in over-exploited areas. Maize saw a 22.82% increase in groundwater extraction, while paddy rose by 16.83% in over-exploited areas. The impact varied across farm categories, with marginal and small farms extracting more groundwater than medium and semi-medium farms. The subsidy led farmers to invest in electric pumps and extend pumping hours, intensifying groundwater depletion. These findings highlight the need for policy changes to adjust electricity subsidies based on crop water requirements, aiming to reduce excessive groundwater use.