Question

Despite tank irrigation being a simple form of irrigation, it is not used by all farmers. Explain why.

Answer 1

1. Dependence on Monsoon Rains: Tanks are rain-fed and do not guarantee a steady water supply. In areas with erratic or insufficient rainfall, tanks often fail to provide adequate irrigation.
2. Limited Irrigation Coverage: Tanks typically cover a small area and cannot meet the demands of large-scale agriculture, making them less viable for farmers with extensive fields.
3. High Maintenance Requirements: Tanks require regular desilting and repair of bunds, which involve significant labor and financial inputs that many small farmers cannot afford.
4. Neglect and Encroachment: In many regions, tanks have been neglected or encroached upon due to urbanization and poor governance, reducing their effectiveness and availability.