Policy alternatives for pump irrigation in Indonesia

But the government still faces the problem of extending irrigated agriculture to the poorer and drier areas of eastern Indonesia. This study assesses past and present experience with pump irrigation in Indonesia and offers recommendations for future pump irrigation investments. Primary data were collected from farmers, pump operators, water user association officials, and concerned government or NGO staff; secondary data were collected from project files and reports. In addition, the efficiency and operating capacity of various pumps were measured. The study addresses eight policy issues: pump irrigation potential; environmental concerns; roles of the public and private sectors in pump irrigation; institutional options for pump irrigation development; appropriateness of technologies for pump irrigation; economic viability, legal framework, and institutional support; and strengthening the capacity of water users associations. (Author abstract, modified)