POTENTIALITY OF MANUAL PUMP IRRIGATION IN JESSORE REGION

Abstract

Manual pumps namely, Treadle, Rower and No. 6 Hand pumps were demonstrated to the farmers of Jessore district. Interested small farmers from Bhatpara and Bagliarpara were provided with these pumps to irrigate wheat, watermelon and winter vegetables. Technical assistance for installation, operation and maintenance of pumps, construction of field channels, water delivery to different crops, etc. were provided to them. Most of the farmers were adequately benefited using these pumps.' Tubewcllwisc benefit cost ratio was obtained as high as 3.42 on full cost basis. Out of three types of pumps, most farmers were interested in Treadle pump for its considerable discharge, case in operation and less possibility of pilferage. The potentiality of manual pump irrigation was accepted by the farmers. Neighbouring farmers were also very much interested to use the technology in their own fields. But the economic insolvency of the poor farmers makes them unable to afford the initial cost of a tubcweli. It has been, therefore, suggested that loans (preferably In kind) to be provided to them for the initial cost of the tubewclls.