ASSESSMENT OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS IMPACTING ON THE CROPPING INTENSITY OF AN IRRIGATION SCHEME IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

An increase of cropping intensity of irrigation schemes is required to address the challenge of global food security. Socio-economic factors also have a significant impact on the cropping intensity within an irrigated area. This research is focused on understanding the impact of socio-economic factors on cropping intensity in an irrigation scheme. To assess the socio-economic factors and cropping intensity, a framework was developed, which we believe can be adopted in other irrigation schemes in developing countries. The framework was applied to an irrigation area in Nepal. An interview checklist and observation techniques were used as the primary data-gathering method, which followed the concepts articulated in the developed framework. A census survey was also conducted in 72 farmer households. The results showed that farmers' socio-economic status and their socio-cultural practices affected cropping intensity. The research also highlighted that mechanization in agricultural practices, coordination between irrigation and agricultural district offices with farmers, market facilities for agricultural inputs and agricultural products, and land tenancy agreements all significantly influenced agricultural intensification. Based on the findings of this research, an approach to intensify cropping intensity by farm owners and farming tenants has been developed, which can be applied in irrigated areas in the developing world. (c) 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.