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A History of Agriculture in India v1.c35.s9: Agricultural Implements and Accessories

A History of Agriculture in India v1.c35.s9

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Agricultural Implements and Accessories

v1.c35.s9.1

The *Amarakosha* lists a number of agricultural implements, such as plough (*langala, hala*), pin of yoke (*yugakilaka*), shaft of the plough (*langala-danda*), goad (*prajana, todana*), harrow (*kotisa*), spade or hoe (*khanitra*), sickle (*datra, lavitra*), tie for fastening the yoke to the plough (*yotra*), post for threshing grain on the floor (*medhi*), winnowing-basket (*surpa*) and sieve (*chhalani*).

v1.c35.s9.2

There is enough evidence to indicate that due recognition was given to irrigation. Land known as *nadi-matrka* depended on irrigation from river water. Water in tanks and pools was used for irrigation in the central and southern parts of India.

v1.c35.s9.3

The *Naradasmrti* states that the erection of a dyke in the middle of another man's fields was not prohibited in view of the fact that it would be advantageous for irrigation, whereas the loss is trifling. It states further that a man with the permission of the owner can restore a decayed dyke, although without the owner's consent he cannot use it. Narada classifies the dykes into *kheya* (which is dug into the soil to drain off excess water) and *bandhya* (which is constructed to prevent the water from flowing out)¹.

Cites (1)