Age and Water Rights Awareness: Influences on Farmer Satisfaction with Irrigation Water Distribution in Central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Abstract

This research study was conducted in three districts i.e. District Malakand, District Charsadda, and District Mardan in central Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to assess farmer’s satisfaction and awareness about irrigation water rights. For this purpose, multi stage stratified random sampling techniques was used for the randomly selection of 466 farmers. This study sheds light on the critical dimension of water rights awareness among farmers and its profound impact on irrigation practices. The research highlights a concerning lack of awareness regarding water redistribution following land transactions, as well as the fundamental understanding that water ownership is tied to the land itself, rather than the proprietor. This study also examines the relationship between farmers' awareness of water rights and their satisfaction with irrigation water distribution, taking into account different age groups. Results indicate a positive and statistically significant association between water rights awareness and satisfaction for young adults (20-40 years, Tc = 0.101, P = 0.023), middle-aged adults (41-60 years, Tc = 0.303, P = 0.000), and older adults (above 60 years, Tc = 0.269, P = 0.007). Overall, the study reveals a highly significant and positive correlation (P = 0.000, Tc = 0.59) between water rights awareness and farmer satisfaction with
irrigation water distribution. Age emerges as a key factor influencing this association, with middleaged farmers exhibiting notably higher satisfaction due to their heightened awareness of water rights compared to their younger and older counterparts. The study recommended critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders to improve water distribution systems and promote equitable
access to this vital resource.