Impact of irrigation modernization on rice productivity in Yogyakarta: An integrated evaluation

Abstract

Indonesia continues to face persistent challenges in achieving sustainable rice productivity despite substantial investments in irrigation infrastructure. This study examines the influence of five pillars of irrigation modernization—water supply reliability, infrastructure improvement, management systems, institutional strengthening, and human resource development—on rice productivity in the Special Region of Yogyakarta. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates a readiness index evaluation, structural equation modeling, and SWOT analysis across ten irrigation areas involving 150 stakeholders. The findings reveal that while most regions exhibit an adequate level of readiness for modernization, significant disparities exist between centrally and regionally managed systems. Quantitative modeling confirms that water supply reliability, infrastructure, and management systems have a statistically significant impact on rice yields. In contrast, institutional and human resource variables, though positively associated, demonstrate weaker direct effects. Strategic analysis places all regions in an aggressive development quadrant, indicating favorable internal and external conditions for modernization. These results highlight the need for targeted investment strategies, particularly in human capital and institutional coordination. This study contributes to irrigation policy discourse by presenting a comprehensive, empirical model for assessing modernization impact and guiding implementation.