Evaluating the Implementation of Irrigation Modernization Policy in Indonesia: A Multisite Assessment of Irrigation Schemes

ABSTRACT Irrigation modernization has become a national priority in Indonesia to secure food production and water resources under the pressures of population growth, land conversion and climate variability. While government programmes have invested in physical rehabilitation and automation, concerns remain about the balance between technical improvements and institutional, managerial and social dimensions. This study evaluates the implementation of irrigation modernization across six irrigation schemes using the Irrigation Modernization Readiness Index (IKMI), complemented by quadrant analysis and qualitative assessments. Data were collected in 2024–2025 through field surveys, structured observations, interviews and focus group discussions with farmers, operation and maintenance staff and government officials. Quantitative analysis compared IKMI scores before and after modernization, while qualitative evidence was examined through an open‐systems perspective. The results show that infrastructure consistently recorded the highest readiness scores, reflecting strong government investment in physical assets, while human resources remained the weakest pillar. Only Talang and Manganti achieved high readiness (≥ 80), whereas other schemes showed modest gains constrained by institutional and managerial deficiencies. The findings highlight that modernization outcomes remain unbalanced, dominated by hardware‐oriented interventions. Strengthening the legal framework, professionalizing irrigation personnel and consolidating knowledge management are essential to ensure sustainable and adaptive irrigation governance in Indonesia.