Malguzari Tanks: A Potential Lifeline for Vidarbha's Agriculture

thenewsdirt
Jul 21
7 min read

Malguzari Tanks in Vidarbha — Malguzari Tanks

In the eastern region of Vidarbha lies a network of ancient water harvesting structures known as Malguzari tanks. These tanks, built over two centuries ago by local landlords, have been a lifeline for agriculture and local communities, providing water for irrigation and supporting fisheries.

However, after the abolition of the zamindari system in the 1950s, these tanks fell into disrepair due to neglect and lack of maintenance. Today, efforts are underway to revive these traditional water systems, recognising their potential to alleviate water scarcity and support sustainable agriculture in the region.

Understanding the history and significance of Malguzari tanks is crucial to appreciating the current initiatives aimed at their restoration and the impact they can have on the lives of thousands of farmers in Vidarbha.

Historical Background of Malguzari Tanks

Malguzari tanks are traditional water harvesting structures found in the eastern Vidarbha region of Maharashtra, India. These tanks were constructed by the Malguzaars, who were zamindars or landlords, during the period of the Gond kingdom, approximately two to three centuries ago.

The primary purpose of these tanks was to provide water for irrigation, particularly for paddy fields, which are a staple crop in the region. Additionally, the tanks served as a source of fish, contributing to the local diet and economy.

The design of the Malguzari tanks is noteworthy for its ingenuity. Many of these tanks were built in a series, allowing water to overflow from one tank to another, thereby creating a network that maximised water storage and distribution.

This system not only ensured efficient use of water resources but also helped in recharging groundwater levels, which is vital for sustaining agriculture in areas with erratic rainfall. Historical records suggest that these tanks were meticulously planned, taking into account the topography of the area to optimise water retention and flow.

The tanks were a testament to the engineering skills and traditional knowledge of the communities under the Gond regime. They were maintained by the Malguzaars, who were responsible for their upkeep, ensuring that the tanks remained functional and beneficial to the local population.

This system of water management was integral to the agricultural prosperity of eastern Vidarbha, supporting a self-sustaining rural economy.

Importance and Functionality

The importance of Malguzari tanks extends beyond just irrigation. They play a critical role in the local ecosystem by providing water sources for wildlife, thus reducing man-animal conflicts in the region.

Animals often visit these tanks to drink, which helps prevent them from entering human settlements in search of water.

The tanks also support biodiversity, serving as habitats for various aquatic species, including fish, which are a valuable resource for local communities.

From an agricultural perspective, the tanks are essential for ensuring water availability during dry spells, which are common in Vidarbha. This region is known for its water scarcity issues, with only about 20% of the land under irrigation, according to various estimates.

The remaining 80-85% of cultivated land is rainfed, making farmers vulnerable to erratic monsoons. The revival of these tanks can significantly enhance the resilience of farming communities against climate variability by providing a reliable water source.

Moreover, the tanks have cultural and historical significance, representing the traditional knowledge and engineering skills of the local communities. Preserving and restoring these structures is not only about water conservation but also about maintaining the cultural heritage of the region.

The tanks, often referred to as "Mama tanks" locally, are a symbol of the ingenuity of past generations and their understanding of sustainable water management.

The functionality of Malguzari tanks lies in their ability to store and distribute water efficiently. Their interconnected design allows water to flow from one tank to another, ensuring that even smaller tanks downstream benefit from the overflow.

This network approach maximises the use of available water resources, making it possible to irrigate large areas of farmland. Additionally, the tanks contribute to groundwater recharge, which is crucial for maintaining the water table in wells and borewells, further supporting agricultural activities.

Decline and Neglect of the Malguzari Tanks

The decline of the Malguzari tanks began after the abolition of the zamindari system in the 1950s. With the state government taking ownership of the tanks, there was confusion and a lack of clarity regarding maintenance responsibilities.

The Malguzaars, who had previously managed and maintained the tanks, were no longer involved, and the government failed to allocate sufficient resources for their upkeep.

As a result, many tanks became silted and fell into disrepair. The accumulation of silt reduced their water storage capacity, and without regular maintenance, the structures deteriorated over time.

This neglect had a direct impact on agriculture, as farmers lost a reliable source of irrigation water, leading to decreased crop yields and increased vulnerability to droughts. In districts like Bhandara, Gondia, Chandrapur, and Gadchiroli, where these tanks are concentrated, the lack of functional tanks exacerbated water scarcity issues.

Legal battles ensued, with the Malguzaars claiming ownership and the government asserting control. The Supreme Court, in a ruling, sided with the Malguzaars but did not specify who should maintain the tanks, leading to a prolonged period of neglect.

In 1983, an independent committee declared that the tanks were the government’s responsibility to maintain due to their significance for modern irrigation projects, but this decision was largely ignored, and the tanks remained unmaintained for decades.

A 2015 report by a study group appointed by the Maharashtra government’s rural development and water conservation department highlighted the extent of the neglect, noting that approximately 7,000 Malguzari tanks in eastern Vidarbha were in a state of disrepair.

This report underscored the potential of these tanks to irrigate over 125,000 hectares of farmland, representing about 6-7% of the net sown area in the region, and to recharge groundwater on a large scale.

Revival Efforts and Success Stories

The revival of Malguzari tanks gained momentum in 2008, thanks to the efforts of Shirish Apte, an Executive Engineer with the Minor Irrigation Division of Bhandara. Coming from a Malguzaar family, Apte had a deep understanding of the importance of these tanks and a personal commitment to their restoration. His initiative marked a turning point in the efforts to bring these traditional water systems back to life.

In 2008, Apte spearheaded the restoration of the Janbhora Malguzari tank, located 35 kilometres from Bhandara.

The project involved desilting the tank to remove accumulated sand and earth, which had significantly reduced its capacity. The local community participated actively in the de-silting process, demonstrating the power of community involvement in such initiatives. The boundary wall of the tank was strengthened to prevent erosion, and the restoration was completed between 2009 and 2010.

The results of the Janbhora tank restoration were remarkable. The tank’s water storage capacity increased significantly, leading to improved groundwater recharge.

This, in turn, enhanced agricultural productivity in the surrounding areas, with farmers reporting higher crop yields. Fish production in the tank also increased, providing an additional source of income for the locals. The silt removed during the process, rich in nitrogen and phosphorus, was distributed to nearby farms as organic fertiliser, reducing the dependence on chemical fertilisers and lowering farming costs.

The success of the Janbhora tank inspired the district administration to undertake similar projects. By 2016, the Maharashtra government had developed plans to rejuvenate 6,600 Malguzari tanks across eastern Vidarbha, aiming to create an irrigation potential of nearly 100,000 hectares.

The state allocated Rs 150 crore in its 2016 budget for this purpose, although the Nagpur divisional commissionerate had requested Rs 207 crore. The rejuvenation process typically involves desilting the tanks, strengthening their earthen boundaries, and repairing water outlets, with project costs ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 2 crore per tank.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives have also contributed significantly to the revival efforts. In 2017, the Tata Consultancy Services Foundation (TCSF) pledged Rs 30 crore to desilt 141 Malguzari tanks in eastern Vidarbha.

This project was expected to increase irrigation land by approximately 15,738 hectares and benefit over 15,955 farmers.

The involvement of corporate entities highlights the growing recognition of the importance of these traditional water systems in addressing water scarcity.

The restoration process is labour-intensive but cost-effective compared to large-scale dam projects. It involves several steps: de-silting to remove accumulated sediment, assessing and repairing the structural integrity of the tank, and ensuring that water outlets are functional to prevent leakages.

The nutrient-rich silt is distributed to farms, enhancing soil fertility and supporting sustainable agriculture. The revived tanks not only provide water for irrigation but also support aquaculture, contributing to the local economy through fish production.

Another significant benefit of the restoration is the reduction in man-animal conflicts. By providing water sources for wildlife, the tanks help prevent animals from entering human settlements, thereby enhancing safety for both communities and wildlife.

Additionally, the increased water availability has led to higher employment opportunities, as agricultural activities expand and fish farming grows.

The success of these initial restoration projects has encouraged further investment from both governmental and non-governmental organisations.

The Maharashtra government’s Jalyukta Shivar campaign, aimed at making villages water-sufficient, has incorporated the rejuvenation of Malguzari tanks as a key component. The campaign emphasises community participation and collaboration with local water users’ associations to ensure the sustainability of these efforts.

Aspect	Details
Number of Tanks	Approximately 7,000 in eastern Vidarbha
Historical Period	Built 2-3 centuries ago during the Gond kingdom
Primary Purpose	Irrigation for paddy fields and fish production
Irrigation Potential	Over 125,000 hectares (6-7% of net sown area)
Revival Initiatives	Started in 2008 with Janbhora tank; plans for 6,600 tanks by 2016
Key Benefits	Groundwater recharge, increased crop yields, fish production, and reduced man-animal conflicts
Funding	Rs 150 crore (state, 2016), Rs 30 crore (TCSF, 2017)
Restoration Process	De-silting, strengthening boundaries, and repairing outlets

The story of Malguzari tanks is a testament to the enduring value of traditional knowledge and the importance of preserving historical water management systems.

In a time when water scarcity is a pressing issue, especially in regions like Vidarbha, the revival of these tanks offers a viable solution that is both cost-effective and environmentally friendly.

As efforts continue to restore more tanks, it is crucial to ensure that maintenance responsibilities are clearly defined and that local communities are involved in the management process.

This participatory approach will help sustain the benefits of the restoration projects and foster a sense of ownership among the stakeholders.

Furthermore, the success of the Malguzari tank revival can serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges. By learning from the past and adapting traditional practices to contemporary needs, we can build resilient communities that are better equipped to handle the impacts of climate change.

In conclusion, the Malguzari tanks are not just relics of the past; they are vital components of Vidarbha’s water security and agricultural prosperity. Their restoration is a step towards a more sustainable and water-secure future for the region.