Question

Tank irrigation is practised mainly in peninsular India because:
1. Undulating relief and hard rocks make it difficult to dig canals and wells.
2. Rivers are rain-fed.
3. Of compact nature of population and agriculture fields.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below.
(A) 1 and 2
(B) 2 and 3
(C) 1 and 3
(D) 1,2 and 3

Answer 1

Hint: As we all know that irrigation tanks are used as artificial reservoirs for harvesting and preserving the rain water and water from the river and streams primarily for agricultural practices and drinking. Mud banks are constructed across small streams to collect excess water during the rainy season.

Complete step by step solution:
As we have already discussed, irrigation tanks are large reservoirs used for storing water for various traditional practices mainly found in peninsular regions of India like Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. Rain water and water from the river and streams are primarily stored in these reservoirs and used for agricultural practices, drinking and bathing etc. Mud banks are constructed across small streams to collect excess water during the rainy season. Tank irrigation systems are critical in South India because of lack of perennial rainfall.
The undulating relief and hard rocks in these regions makes it difficult to dig canals and wells. We should also know that there is little percolation of rainwater due to hard rocks structure and water in deep ground is also unavailable in much amount. Most of the rivers in southern parts are seasonal and dry up in summers making it difficult to supply water to canals throughout the year.
The scattered nature of population and agricultural fields in these regions also favours the tank irrigation.

Hence, the correct answer is (A).

Note: Water is considered an essential element and pure and regenerative element of rituals and traditions in India. It is present in less quantity in western parts also and due to the failure of monsoon resulting in scarcity of water leads to famine and death and that is what made the idea of making irrigation tanks.