More than 60% of our population is directly dependent on agriculture for its sustenance. Water is the backbone of the agricultural economy. Rural development is directly related to control over water resources. Access to water is, therefore, the key to sustainable rural livelihoods. It has been observed empirically that the economic status of farmers owning water resources is better than that of those lacking control over such resources. Our rural scenario is marked by inequitable access to water resources, which has resulted in unequal development. The implications of unequal access to water in areas facing scarcity of water are wider. Efficient management of water resources is vital in such areas. Numerous attempts have been made in the recent past to address concerns of equity alongside focusing on groundwater management. | Characteristics of farmers of water sharing groups WSGs in Ananthapur district of Andhra Pradesh A case of eight villages
