Articles by K N Nair

Based on field work in a village panchayat in Kerala that analysed the complex issues concerning the development and working of irrigation institutions, the present study reveals that successful management of irrigation is contingent upon the level of participation of the water users in management. By comparing irrigation institutions under different property rights, the study identifies the significant factors that contribute to the success and sustainability of irrigation institutions. It is found that albeit the physical characteristics of irrigation systems and the heterogeneities of the members of the user groups do have an impact on the outcome, it is the institutional environment as reflected in the presence of clear as well as flexible systems of rules and regulations, enforcement mechanisms, nesting and networking of such institutions, etc, that have become the most crucial determinants.

This paper attempts a general methodological critique of the conventional approach to the study of changes in land distribution. The analytical focus of the authors' alternative approach is on the pattern of inter-generational economic mobility of agricultural households as a proximate explanation for changes in land distribution.

Trends and Prospects K N Nair In there pars between 1964-65 and 197879 Kerala witnessed a rapid increase in milk production which has been attributed to increased productivity of milch animals brought about through genetic improvements. This evaluation of the organised development of animal husbandry in the state, which commenced during the First Five-Year Plan, reviews the factors facilitating the spread of crosspreeding. The paper examines trends such as the extent of utilisation of artificial insemination services, changes in the composition of cattle population, contribu- tion of breed improvement to productivity of milch animals, demand for and returns from milk production and concludes with comments on the prospects for cattle development and milk production.