Functions of water user Association(WUA) The main objective of the Association is to develop, maintain and operate the irrigation

system supplying water within the command area. Under the control of the Association, is all other infrastructure directly or indirectly linked to the irrigation system such as drainage system. Natural drainage. Sub-distributaries. Outlets. Maintenance of roads. Etc. Association also provides information about agricultural and irrigation-related activities . To achieve this objective, the Association has the following functions: To introduce a schedule of water supply among fanners for an equitable distribution of water proportionate to the area and to the cropping pattern and reduce water losses in the command area. "Neerkattyy" is appointed by the Association to regulate and monitor the water distribution. to prepare the O&M plans for the supply of water and monitor the implementation of the plans to ensure proper operation of the system. To settle irrigation-related disputes among farmers with mutual understanding. collect irrigation fees to cover the cost of any activity carried out by the WUA. Impose penalties for violations of the regulations of the WUA, for non-payment of water charges. tor violations of the water-scheduling plan or for other violations related to the activities of the Association To educate and guide farmers in the economic and efficient use of available water and on the techniques of applying irrigation and other reclamation measures. To maintain accounts of the management cost and O&M cost separately Membership of the association All farmers whose farms are partially or totally located in the command area under the jurisdiction of the Association automatically become members of the Association on condition that they agree with the by-laws of the Association.

The right of becoming Members of the Associations is limited to the landowners and not to the tenants, although and tenants are recognized by the Association. Tenants should bear water charges and have the right to attend meetings, and should comply by the rules of the Association. They enjoy the same benefits as that of the members.