Cost-benefit analysis of traditional and modern irrigation methods

Abstract

Latur district of Maharashtra was purposively selected for present study due to its recurrent droughts, heavy dependence on groundwater, and the coexistence of both traditional and modern irrigation systems. A total of 180 farmers, 60 from each irrigation methods were selected purposively, data was collected through personal interviews using a pre-tested schedule. The data were collected for the year agricultural year 2024-25. Costs of cultivation were estimated using standard CACP cost concepts, covering both physical inputs (human labour, bullock and machine power, seeds, fertilizers, manures, plant protection, depreciation) and monetary inputs (land revenue, interest on working and fixed capital). Initial capital investment per hectare was highest for drip irrigation (₹ 3.93 lakh), followed by sprinkler (₹ 3.14 lakh) and surface irrigation (₹ 2.53 lakh). The higher costs in modern systems were due to specialized infrastructure, yet annual operating and maintenance costs were lower—particularly for sprinkler irrigation (₹ 11,140/ha) compared to surface (₹ 15,250/ha). Crop-wise cost analysis showed that sprinkler irrigation reduced cultivation expenses for soybean, chickpea, and sorghum, while drip irrigation for sugarcane had higher costs but delivered much higher yields.