Changing Cropping Patterns on Water-Energy-Food Nexus and Gaps in Agricultural Extension Services in Western Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

This study examined the changing cropping patterns on the Water-Energy-Food (WEF) nexus approach and highlights the gaps in agricultural extension services in western Uttar Pradesh. Data were collected from 100 farmers and 11 other stakeholders through semi-structured interviews. Additionally, participatory rural appraisal (PRA), and focus group discussion (FGD) were used in data collection to strengthen the quality of primary data.  Data were analysed and findings revealed that despite numerous government initiatives and a strong network of agricultural institutions, agricultural extension services remain largely ineffective in this region. One finding reflected that 60 per cent of the farmers received information from the Government Agriculture Department, but only 1 per cent adopted innovative irrigation methods related to the WEF nexus approach. Two out of 100 farmers tried to economise water usage in irrigation by efficient surface irrigation. None of the farmers had adopted climate-resilient agricultural practices. Other findings also revealed similar results. The study provided recommendations to strengthen agricultural extension services, focusing on framing policies that align with the WEF nexus approach, which can be implemented by the Governments (Central and State), village councils (Panchayats), and other stakeholders.