Description

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Context

The use of Kundi for generations shows a cultural connection to sustainable water management.
This also shows how traditional knowledge can address modern environmental challenges in water scarce areas.

Details

Kundi or (kund) is a traditional rainwater harvesting system. It is found primarily in desert regions in Churu (Rajasthan).
The system is important in arid & semi arid areas where water is scarce & rainfall is less.

Features of Kundi

Structure:
- A Kundi is a deep, circular or rectangular pit.
- It can either be dug into the ground or built above
- The pit is lined with stones, bricks or other materials to increase durability & prevent leakage.
Water Collection:
- Rainwater is collected from rooftops or channels & funneled into the kundi.
- The collected water is stored for use during the dry season.
Covering and Protection:
- The kundi is covered with a lid or stone slab to avoid contamination from debris & to reduce evaporation. This preserves water quality.

Traditional Water Harvesting Systems in Rajasthan

Johar is a type of check dam. It is used to collect and store rainwater, mostly it is constructed in open fields.
Tanka is a small water storage vessel. It is used for domestic purposes and it is usually for individual water collection in rural areas.

Significance of Kundi

Kundi plays an important role in water conservation in areas where surface water is limited & groundwater is difficult to access.
It reduces dependence on external water sources and it also promotes self sufficiency in water use during dry season.
The use of Kundi for generations shows a cultural connection to sustainable water management.
This also shows how traditional knowledge can address modern environmental challenges in water scarce areas.
By storing rainwater, Kundi also aids in sustainability. It ensures water is available for drinking, irrigation & domestic use when natural water sources are very less.

Water conservation schemes in India

Scheme	Launch Year	Purpose
Jal Shakti Abhiyan	2019	It accelerates water conservation efforts across the country. It also focuses on rainwater harvesting & the rejuvenation of traditional water bodies.
Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal)	2019	It improves groundwater management through community participation in water stressed areas.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)	2015-2016	It enhances water use efficiency in agriculture through measures like micro irrigation.
National Water Mission	2011	It addresses integrated water resources management like conservation, minimizing wastage, & ensuring equitable distribution.
Mission Amrit Sarovar	2022	It conserves water resources for the future by developing & rejuvenating ponds.

Source: DTE

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Compare traditional water harvesting systems like Kundi with modern schemes like Jal Shakti Abhiyan and Atal Bhujal Yojana in addressing water scarcity in India. 150 Words