DEVELOPMENT OF WATER RESOURCES FOR AGRICULTURE ACCORDING TO THE ROYAL INITIATIVE IN THE AREA OF THE CENTRAL NORTHEASTERN PROVINCES

Abstract

This research aimed to (1) study the development of water resources for agriculture in accordance with the Royal Initiative from the past to the present, (2) examine the factors affecting the development of water resources for agriculture based on the Royal Initiative, and (3) formulate a development model for agricultural water resources aligned with the Royal Initiative, the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, and the New Theory. This qualitative study adopted the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy and the New Theory as its conceptual framework. The target group consisted of 48 participants, including 28 executives from relevant agencies and 20 experts. Key informants were selected using purposive sampling, and data were collected through in-depth interviews with agency executives (heads or coordinators) until data saturation was reached. A focus group discussion was also conducted with 20 experts. Data were analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that: (1) The development of agricultural water resources under the Royal Initiative has focused on water retention to alleviate drought and prevent flooding. However, it lacks integration with network partners and relevant agencies, leading to delayed and ineffective solutions that do not match current conditions. Maintenance and continuity of development by both agencies and local communities remain problematic.(2) The factors affecting water resource development include drought, flooding, water pollution, farmers' attitudes, and government policies. (3) The proposed model for developing water resources according to the Royal Initiative, the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, and the New Theory consists of five steps: (1) jointly studying problems and their causes, (2) jointly surveying the area, (3) jointly designing development approaches, (4) jointly deciding and implementing actions, and (5) jointly evaluating outcomes. The knowledge gained from this research serves as a practical guideline for developing agricultural water resources in the lower northeastern provinces, promoting optimal use of water resources and improving the quality of life for local communities sustainably.