History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c24.s6.25

v1.c24.s6.25

The Arthaśāstra (II.1.20) mentions two types of setus (embankments), the sahodaka referring to tanks, wells etc., which have a natural supply of water, and the āhāryodaka, which store water in reservoirs. Discussing the comparative benefits from the different types of irrigational works, Kauṭilya remarks that one which is of perennial water is better than that which is fed with water drawn from other sources, and of works with perennial water that which can irrigate an extensive area is better (AS. VII. 12.4.5).