The present book offers a comprehensive and coherent account with evaluation of the impact of irrigation on agricultural growth in Sharda Sahayak Command Area. Here, the main thrust is on irrigation as a key factor for agricultural development of the area, which ultimately leads to increase in yield per unit land. Inefficient management of irrigation system emanating from lack of coordination, failure of irrigation department in the provision of proper distribution system, drainage facilities and appropriate steps for reduction of seepage losses, was realized by the Government during the Third Plan period. Consequently, a planned programme of area development through a unified multi-disciplinary organization was thought of. This concept of area development necessitated the creation of Command Area Development Projects in the country. Sharda Sahayak Command Area Development Project was established in 1973-74.

The main objectives of the study were set to examine the definite and positive impact of the project, to boost agricultural production and to suggest effective remedial measures. To achieve these objectives, the study aims particularly at making an assessment of the following core functions of the project:

(a) integrated water management, (b) farm development works, and (c) agricultural inputs and extension services.

This book will serve as a suitable and useful text for CAD workers, planners, economists, agricultural scientists, policy makers, rural development planners and researchers. The book is also likely to be of great interest to all those interested in project analysis whether as administrative change-agents, academic theory builders or as field researchers.