Performance and impacts of managed aquifer recharge interventions for agricultural water security: A framework for evaluation

In this article, we aim to propose that performance and impact are different from each other, and that the evaluation of MAR interventions should take into account such differences between them. A framework for performance and impact analysis, based on three levels, viz. primary, secondary and tertiary, is outlined. It is then applied to seven selected MAR interventions in India, Adarsha watershed - Andhra Pradesh, Gokulpura-Goverdhanpura watershed - Rajasthan, Kodangipalayam watershed - Tamil Nadu, Chikalgaon watershed - Maharashtra, Rajasamadhiyala watershed - Gujarat, Satlasana watershed - Gujarat and Sujalam Sufalam Yojana - Gujarat. Although, the evaluations of these case studies reported were not categorized into performance and impact, most of them have addressed both. However, none of them could explicitly demonstrate that reported impacts were uniquely related to MAR interventions. If impacts are used as a surrogate for performance, it must be shown that impacts are uniquely linked to MAR interventions.