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Towards a Common Methodology for Measuring Irrigation Subsidies (PDF - 1.50MB)
This discussion paper marked the GSI's first step in its research initiative on irrigation subsidies. Its purpose was to put together the foundations for the development of a common methodology for measuring irrigation subsidies, to provide researchers with a concise set of defined parameters and make their estimates internationally comparable.
The paper provides a detailed overview and comparison of a number of methods available to researchers seeking to quantify irrigation subsidies at a project, regional or national level. It does not favour any approach over another, as it was intended to help the GSI and its associated research partners choose which methodology to adopt.
The findings were presented at a workshop held jointly with the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) on the 26–27 March 2008, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, attended by national experts from the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID); the International Water Management Institute (IWMI); the Malawi Polytechnic; New Mexico State University, U.S.A.; Middle East Technical University, Turkey; and the World Bank. Discussion during the workshop was directed at agreeing on a single recommended methodology for measuring irrigation subsidies, which resulted in the paper The GSI's method for quantifying irrigation subsidies.
This paper was prepared by Dr. Ravinder Malik, an irrigation subsidy expert working with the University of New Delhi, India.
