Agriculture and Irrigation


 
 
Concept Explanation
 

Agriculture and Irrigation

Agriculture and Irrigation:

  • Many of the achievements of the Cholas were made possible through new developments in agriculture.
  • The river Kaveri branches off into several small channels before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.
  •         (a) These channels overflow frequently,

            (b) depositing fertile soil on their banks.

            (c) Water from the channels also provides the necessary moisture for agriculture, particularly the cultivation of rice.

    Agriculture had developed earlier in other parts of Tamil Nadu, it was only from the fifth or sixth century that this area was opened up for large – scale cultivation. Forests had to be cleared in some region; land had to leveled in other areas. In the delta region embankments had to be built to prevent flooding and canals had to be constructed to carry water to the fields. In many areas two crops were grown in a year. In many cases it was necessary to water crops artificially. A variety of methods were used for irrigation. In some areas wells were dug. In other places huge tanks were constructed to collect rainwater. Irrigation works require planning – organising labour and resources, maintaining these works and deciding on how water is to be shared. Most of the new rulers, as well as people living in villages, took an active interest in these activities.

     
     
     


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