This paper attempts to understand gender issues in smallholder irrigation technology by exploring the dynamics of gender, drip irrigation and rural livelihood. Based on an empirical study undertaken in 2003 in rural areas of West Nepal, the paper tries to assess the appropriateness of the technology, particularly the drip irrigation system, from gender perspective in flushing out rural poverty.
A combination of participatory research tools, gender analysis, participant observation, daily activity profile and secondary sources were used to generate data. Paper revealed that women were found to be extensively contributing in vegetable farming under the drip irrigation system. The total mean hours used for irrigation in vegetable production was highest in comparison to other activities. Based on the study findings, the paper makes recommendations for better use and management of water resources by women and men alongside the adoption of appropriate technological innovation in irrigation. The author argues that policy regimes should address typical needs of smallholder irrigators, particularly women.
