DECENTRALIZED GOVERNANCE AND WATER CONSERVATION IN KERALA: INSTITUTIONAL AND EXTENSION EDUCATION INSIGHTS FROM PALAKKAD

Abstract

Water conservation and governance are critically interconnected in Kerala, a state characterized by abundant rainfall yet challenged by spatial and seasonal water scarcity, particularly in districts like Palakkad. This paper investigates how decentralized institutional frameworks and extension education initiatives collectively shape water governance in Kerala, particularly focusing on Palakkad district. It examines the role of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), technical bodies such as the Kerala Water Authority (KWA) and Centre for Water Resources Development and Management (CWRDM), alongside community-led participatory programs including Susthira Thrithala and Jalanidhi. Through an integration of environmental governance theory with empirical case studies and extension education analyses, this study reveals that effective water conservation requires both institutional coherence and active community empowerment fostered through social learning. Extension education emerges as a pivotal mechanism, bridging the gap between scientific knowledge and local practice, thereby facilitating sustainable water resource management. The findings highlight how participatory and polycentric governance approaches enable adaptive and resilient local water systems amidst climatic and developmental pressures. Based on these insights, the paper proposes actionable recommendations to enhance institutional coordination, strengthen extension outreach and education programs, and promote participatory governance frameworks. These recommendations aim to build sustainable water governance models applicable to Kerala and globally for regions confronting complex hydrological and governance challenges.