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DOI: https://doi.org/10.63345/ijrsml.v13.i8.8
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Nishav Sharma
Dr. Hari Singh Gour Vishwavidyalaya
Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India
Abstract
The history of water management in India illustrates the deep interconnection between society, ecology, and hydraulic knowledge across ancient and medieval times. From the urbanized Harappan civilization (3000–1500 BCE) to the Chola Empire (9th–13th century CE), communities developed diverse and innovative techniques for sustaining agriculture, ensuring urban sanitation, and meeting socio-cultural needs. Archaeological and literary evidence demonstrates how civilizations such as the Harappans built elaborate drainage networks, reservoirs, and wells; the Mauryans institutionalized hydraulic governance through state-managed dams, canals, and water pricing systems; the Guptas emphasized localized, community-driven irrigation via tanks and guild initiatives; and the Cholas perfected large-scale irrigation networks, including the Grand Anicut and interconnected tank systems, supported by village assemblies and temple patronage. Each of these periods highlights the sophisticated understanding of hydrological principles and the integration of governance, technology, and community participation in water management. The continuity and adaptability of these systems underscore India’s long-standing legacy as a hydraulic civilization. This study traces the evolution of ancient and medieval Indian water systems to reveal how engineering knowledge, administrative structures, and cultural practices shaped enduring models of sustainable resource management.
Keywords
Water management, Ancient India, Harappan civilization, Mauryan Empire, Gupta period, Chola dynasty, irrigation systems, hydraulic water management, community-based governance, sustainable water practices.
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