Influence of Beneficiary Farmer profiles on the Socio-economic Impact of the IAMWARM Project in Tamil Nadu
P. Kaviya1* and M. Natarajan2
1Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram - 608 002 (India) Email: kaviyadeepan66@gmail.com 2Department of Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram - 608 002 (India) Email: mnextension@gmail.com *Corresponding Author: P. Kaviya (kaviyadeepan66@gmail.com)
ABSTRACT
The Irrigated Agriculture Modernization and Water-Bodies Restoration and Management (IAMWARM) project, launched by the Government of Tamil Nadu with World Bank support aimed to modernize irrigation systems, restore water resources and improve rural livelihoods. This study investigates the association between the profiles of beneficiary farmers and the socio-economic impact of the project in the Ponnaniyar sub-basin of Tiruchirappalli district. Using an ex-post facto research design, data were collected from 120 beneficiaries through structured interviews. Findings indicate that IAMWARM interventions contributed to stabilization of agricultural production, improved housing, enhanced education for children, diversified diets and increased social participation. Migration was entirely prevented, reflecting strengthened livelihood security. Regression analysis identified education, training, scientific orientation, innovativeness, risk orientation and economic motivation as significant determinants influencing the extent of socioeconomic change