Introduction
Water, both in quantity and quality, is the main factor limiting the increase in agricultural production. The efficient and effective use of water resources as well as improving water use efficiency, play an important role in addressing this limitation. In the development process of any country, reliable water resources play a central role. For our country, this need is increasing due to rapid urbanization, the urgent need to develop the agricultural sector and the concurrent decline in groundwater levels. This situation is further exacerbated by the limited availability of water resources and the increasing aridity and low precipitation in most climatic regions. Water resource projects, particularly dams and irrigation networks, as well as the use of wells and Qantas, play a significant role in addressing these challenges and fostering further regional development. One of the critical issues surrounding these various water utilization systems is their economic and social implications. The largest share of water extraction, amounting to 81 billion cubic meters or over 90%, is allocated to agricultural use. This underscores the importance of optimizing water management strategies to ensure sustainable agricultural development while addressing the growing demands of urbanization and environmental constraints. According to many experts, the lack of proper management of water allocation to the agricultural sector has been so effective that it has made the redesign of new irrigation patterns, that is, the same method that the successful countries of the world have adopted, even more necessary. In this regard, improving water productivity in the agricultural sector is one of the most important measures in the direction of improving water resources management. Many believe that providing facilities and increasing the financial capacity of farmers can be an effective step towards the use of modern and efficient irrigation methods and as a result significant savings in water consumption.
Methodology
The present study tries to use treatment effects approach to determine the effect of university training or promotion related to irrigation efficiency on farmers' use of efficient and new irrigation methods, among 132 farmers receiving credit as a group under treatment and 212 farmers of Tabriz who did not receive government credits, as a control group, in the crop year of 1400. The treatment effects approach is a type of "sample selection" problem that tries to measure the effect of an educational program or educational course, which is called "treatment" in the term, on a special dependent variable considered by the researcher. The therapeutic effects approach is a type of "sample selection" problem that tries to measure the effect of an educational program or educational course, which is called "treatment" in the term, on a special dependent variable considered by the researcher. The therapeutic effects approach is a type of "sample selection" problem that tries to measure the effect of an educational program or educational course, which is called "treatment" in the term, on a special dependent variable considered by the researcher.
Results
The results demonstrate a positive and statistically significant impact of government’s -provided credits provided to application of modern irrigation methods. This finding underscores the critical role of financial incentives in encouraging the uptake of advanced agricultural technologies. In light of these results, agricultural policymakers can prioritize the design and implementation of targeted financial support programs for farmers, particularly in regions grappling with severe water scarcity. By offering tailored credit facilities, governments can effectively incentivize the adoption of water-efficient irrigation technologies, which are essential for optimizing water use and mitigating the adverse effects of water shortages. Moreover, the adoption of modern irrigation methods not only enhances water use efficiency but also contributes to the sustainable development of the agricultural sector. By reducing water wastage and improving crop yields, these technologies can help farmers achieve greater economic stability while conserving vital water resources. This dual benefit aligns with broader environmental and economic goals, making targeted financial support a strategic tool for addressing both immediate and long-term challenges in agriculture. In addition to financial incentives, policymakers should consider integrating educational and training programs to complement credit schemes. Such programs can equip farmers with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively implement and maintain advanced irrigation systems. In addition, promoting cooperation between government agencies, research institutions, and local communities can improve the expansion and impact of these initiatives. Finally, this approach not only addresses the pressing issue of water shortage but also promotes long-term resilience in agricultural practices. By encouraging the application of sustainable technologies, policymakers can help build a more robust and adaptive agricultural sector capable of withstanding future environmental and economic uncertainties. The results emphasize importance of political y interventions based on evidence in the implementation of agricultural innovation and sustainability.