Why there is greater empisis on minor irrigation projects than on multipurpose projects?

Irrigation projects servicing a command area of less than 2000 hectares fall under the category of minor irrigation projects.These projects have received priority in the realm of agricultural development due to their relatively high advantages over the traditional irrigation methods. Minor irrigation projects by definition cost less than Rupees 25 lakhs(2.5 million).They are easy to build and maintain.Their operation is under the farmers control.Other advantages include short gestation period,low investment and low probability of enveronmental erosion. A Large number of these projects are based on ground water utilization using modern methods and technology.It must be ensured while doing so that wells are spaced appropriately to ensure economic sustainibility.Modern irrigation techniques like drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation are used to maximise water utilization and avoid erosion of aquifers. In India NABARD is playing a stellar role in propagating and facilitating Minor irrigation by proving the adequate financial and technical know how to the farmers.