Introduction Panda or Hydra? The untold stories of drip irrigation

Irrigated areas in the world are witnessing a transformation from open canal systems to more ‘modern’ irrigation methods such as drip irrigation that convey water through closed pipe systems. Initially associated with hi-tech irrigated agriculture, drip irrigation is now being used by a wide range of farmers including smallholders in Asia, North Africa and Latin America. Enthused about its potential to save water, improve productivities, and combat poverty, national governments, international development aid organizations, local and global private-sector actors, as well as farmers have enthusiastically embraced drip irrigation. The technology also assumes a prominent place in policy documents and global environmental and development discourses, often figuring as a panacea to help solve contemporary water challenges.