The State-Promoted Canal Irrigation System in India

The state-promoted canal irrigation system was a crucial development in Indian history. It helped to increase agricultural productivity and transform the economy of the country. The system was initiated during the medieval period by the rulers of Delhi Sultanate.

Ghiyasuddin Tughluq - The Initiator of Canal Irrigation System

Among the Delhi Sultanate rulers, Ghiyasuddin Tughluq played a significant role in the development of the canal irrigation system. He ruled from 1320 to 1325 and was the founder of the Tughlaq dynasty. He was an able administrator and a visionary ruler who had a deep understanding of the needs of his people.

Reasons for the Initiation of the Canal Irrigation System

The main reason for the initiation of the canal irrigation system was the need to enhance agricultural productivity and to meet the growing demands of the population. The canal system was used to supply water to the farmlands, which helped to increase crop production and improve the quality of the crops.

Construction of Canals

Ghiyasuddin Tughluq ordered the construction of several canals and irrigation channels in different parts of the country. The most famous of these were the Western Yamuna Canal and the Eastern Yamuna Canal. These canals were used to irrigate the lands in the Doab region, which is the fertile land between the Ganges and Yamuna rivers.

Impact of the Canal Irrigation System

The canal irrigation system had a profound impact on the economy of the country. It helped to increase agricultural production, which led to more revenue for the government. The peasants also benefited from the system as it enabled them to grow more crops and improve their standard of living. The canal system also helped to create a network of trade and commerce, which further boosted the economy of the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the state-promoted canal irrigation system was a significant development in Indian history. The system was initiated by Ghiyasuddin Tughluq, who understood the needs of his people and took decisive action to meet them. The canal system helped to increase agricultural productivity and transform the economy of the country. It remains an important part of India's agricultural landscape to this day.