Abstract

                                Cost of irrigation water increased with the step un in or-power of electric motor pumpsets responding to the depth of wells. The difference in cost between different horse-power groups was attributed to the increased consumption of electricity. annual repairs and replacement charges. The variation in fixed cost was due to higher Investments on well. electric motors and their accessories deponding on the depth of wolls. The average cost per irrigation under gurdenland was Rs. 67.31 for wells up to a depth of 30.67 metros and Rs. 147.00 for wells above that depth. The average cost per hectare of cholam was Rs. 414.19 while that of sugarcane was Rs. 2290.30 in first depth group of Wells. In the second depth group, the same was Rs. 1016.21 and 3894.21 respectively. The high cost of irrigation in deep wells of Coimbatore taluk suggests rationalizing water use by optimum crop mix to maximise farm income. This could be achieved by extension efforts towards individual farm planning.

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