Abstract This study examines the socio-economic impact of the Ghod Irrigation Project on rural livelihoods in Pune and Ahilyanagar districts of Maharashtra. The research aims to assess how canal irrigation has influenced household income, employment generation, migration patterns, asset formation, and overall living standards in the semi-arid command area.The study adopts a descriptive and analytical research design based on both primary and secondary data. Primary data were collected through structured household surveys conducted in selected irrigated villages representing head-reach and tail-end locations within the canal command area. Secondary data were obtained from Census reports, Irrigation Department records, and District Statistical Abstracts. Comparative analysis was used to examine differences in socio-economic indicators across irrigation zones. Key variables included household income, employment days, female labour participation, migration rate, asset ownership, and access to basic amenities.The results indicate that irrigation has significantly enhanced household income stability and expanded local employment opportunities through multi-cropping and commercial agriculture. Seasonal migration has declined in villages with reliable irrigation access. Female participation in agricultural activities has increased, contributing to improved household financial security. Asset accumulation, housing improvement, and access to education and health services have also improved in irrigated villages. However, spatial disparities persist, with head-reach villages experiencing greater socio-economic benefits compared to tail-end villages.The study provides a livelihood-based assessment of irrigation impact at the micro-regional level and highlights the importance of equitable water distribution for inclusive rural development in semi-arid regions.
Hanumant Dattatraya Shinde (Tue,) studied this question.