Authors :
Bidyut Bikash Hazarika; Bikalpa Bikash Hazarika
Volume/Issue :
Volume 8 - 2023, Issue 6 - June
Google Scholar :
https://bit.ly/3TmGbDi
Scribd :
https://tinyurl.com/3nx94jk5
DOI :
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.8130711
Abstract :
Traditional practices of soil and water
conservation have long been employed in various regions
of India to combat soil erosion, preserve water resources,
and sustain agricultural productivity. This paper
explores a diverse range of traditional techniques and
structures used for soil and water conservation in
different parts of the country. From Ladakh's compact
reservoirs and Himachal Pradesh's kuls and khatris to
Nagaland's bamboo drip irrigation and Rajasthan's
johads and bundela tanks, these traditional practices
demonstrate indigenous wisdom and innovation in
harnessing natural resources. However, modern soil and
water conservation practices have also emerged to
address contemporary challenges. Mechanical measures,
such as check dams and temporary structures, are
utilized to slow down runoff, prevent erosion, and store
water. Permanent gully control structures, including
drop spillways and chute spillways, are implemented to
manage water flow in areas prone to gully erosion.
Agronomical measures, such as contour cropping,
mulching, and furrow irrigation, aim to preserve soil
integrity and minimize erosion.By examining both
traditional and modern practices, this paper highlights
the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with
contemporary techniques to achieve sustainable soil and
water conservation. Understanding and preserving these
traditional practices can contribute to the development
of effective and context-specific conservation strategies
for the future.
Keywords :
Water conservation; traditional practices; rainwater harvesting; soil conservation; modern practices; artificial recharge.
Traditional practices of soil and water
conservation have long been employed in various regions
of India to combat soil erosion, preserve water resources,
and sustain agricultural productivity. This paper
explores a diverse range of traditional techniques and
structures used for soil and water conservation in
different parts of the country. From Ladakh's compact
reservoirs and Himachal Pradesh's kuls and khatris to
Nagaland's bamboo drip irrigation and Rajasthan's
johads and bundela tanks, these traditional practices
demonstrate indigenous wisdom and innovation in
harnessing natural resources. However, modern soil and
water conservation practices have also emerged to
address contemporary challenges. Mechanical measures,
such as check dams and temporary structures, are
utilized to slow down runoff, prevent erosion, and store
water. Permanent gully control structures, including
drop spillways and chute spillways, are implemented to
manage water flow in areas prone to gully erosion.
Agronomical measures, such as contour cropping,
mulching, and furrow irrigation, aim to preserve soil
integrity and minimize erosion.By examining both
traditional and modern practices, this paper highlights
the importance of integrating indigenous knowledge with
contemporary techniques to achieve sustainable soil and
water conservation. Understanding and preserving these
traditional practices can contribute to the development
of effective and context-specific conservation strategies
for the future.
Keywords :
Water conservation; traditional practices; rainwater harvesting; soil conservation; modern practices; artificial recharge.
