WATER CONSERVATION - IMPORTANCE OF TRADITIONAL AND MODERN TECHNIQUES IN INDIA

Abstract

Water conservation is a process that involves policies, rules and regulations and techniques to sustainably manage natural water resources, protect watersheds and meet the present and future demand for water supply for humans. India has a rich heritage of traditional water conservation practices, in the past various states of India adopted traditional water storage methods such as Khadin, Kund, Johad - (Rajasthan), Eri - (Tamil Nadu), Katta- (Karnataka), Bawdi (Gujarat), Tanks (South India), Tal, Bandhara - (Maharashtra), Kuhls - (Himachal Pradesh), Bundhis - Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, Surangams - (Kerala).

            This includes rainwater storage methods like 'Tanka' and 'Aahar', which effectively store monsoon rains and recharge groundwater in various regions; However, with increasing water scarcity, modern techniques such as drip irrigation, sprinklers, smart irrigation systems and efficient water management practices are being adopted to optimize water use in agriculture and domestic sectors, which highlights the need to combine traditional knowledge with advanced technology for sustainable water conservation in the country. Also, smart water metering, green building design, drought-resistant agriculture, educational campaigns and water conservation apps are becoming important in 21st-century water conservation techniques.