Question

Explain the history of tanks.

Answer 1

Instructions:

• Mention what tank is.
• Explain who constructed it and what was done to properly maintain the tanks in villages.

Solution:

• Tanks were used to store rain and also collect the run off water as we can use it when needed. The water stored in the tanks was used for drinking purposes both by people and animals, for irrigation of fields and this may raise the water levels of nearby wells.
• The idea of constructing tanks was done many years ago. tanks were constructed by the order of kings, military leaders and the nayakas or village chieftains . After the order issued by them, all the people in the area were expected to participate in its construction since this tank was made for all those who lived there.
• The area benefited from the tank was known as the ‘ Ayacut’ or the command area of the tank. If people don't want to take part in construction, they are expected to give ‘resources’ for its construction.
• As each tank was constructed by the people of the same village and also for their own use, all had the right to use the water in it. Therefore they felt a sense of community i.e. they felt united. But, there was a condition that one should not take water unnecessarily. People had limited access to the water in tanks since it was meant for all.
• There was an officer appointed to regulate the use of water in the tank in an area called ‘Neeratti’ or Neeru Kattai Manasi’.
• At first, they constructed tanks by building embankments and bunds. And later, people started constructing wells and borewells later.