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Every Drop Counts Class 5 Notes EVS Chapter 6

Summary of Every Drop Counts

  • This chapter highlights the significance of water.
  • Water is a crucial element for life.
  • Across the globe, everyone obtains water from various sources and in different ways. 
  • People around the world, in many places face the scarcity of water.
  • Many communities struggle with water scarcity, which makes life difficult.
  • People worldwide are taking important actions to conserve water.

Ghadsisar, Jaisalmer(Rajasthan)

  • It was built 650 years ago with the help of the people by Jaisalmer's King Ghadsi.
  • Ghats with steps leading to the water, decorated verandas, large halls, rooms, and much more can be found all around the lake.
  • People came to celebrate festivals and attend music and dance performances. Children flocked to the ghat school to learn.
  • Everyone shared ownership of the talab, and everyone was responsible for keeping it clean.
  • The rainwater collected in this lake flowed for miles.
  • It was constructed in such a way that when the lake was full, the excess water flowed into a lower-level lake.
  • When that too filled up, the extra water flowed into the next lake.
  • In this manner, all nine lakes were filled.
  • This rainwater could be used all year long.
  • Ghadsisar is no longer in use. Between those nine lakes, a slew of new structures and colonies have sprouted. The water in these lakes is no longer collected. Rainwater simply flows away and is wasted.
    Ghadsisar LakeGhadsisar Lake

Through the Eyes of Al-Biruni

  • A traveller arrived in India over a thousand years ago. Al-Biruni was his name.
  • Uzbekistan is the name of the country from which he came. Al-Biruni paid close attention and meticulously recorded everything he saw.
  • He wrote especially about things that he found to be very different from what he had experienced in his own country.

Here is a Part of What He Wrote About the Ponds of that Time:

“The people here are very skilled at making ponds. My countrymen would be surprised to see them. They pile up huge rocks and join them with iron rods to build chabutaras (raised platforms) all around the lake. Between these, there are rows of long staircases, going up and down. The steps for going up and coming down are separate. So, there is less crowding.”
Al-BiruniAl-Biruni

Drop-by-Drop

  • Apart from Jaisalmer, many areas in Rajasthan receive very little rainfall.
  • It rains only for a few days each year, sometimes not even that much.
  • The rivers are not always full of water throughout the year.
  • Despite this, most villages in these areas do not struggle with water shortages.
  • People understand that every drop of water is valuable.
  • Lakes and johads were created to collect water.
  • Water is essential for everyone, and the community works together to gather it.
    Rainwater harvestingRainwater harvesting
  • Some water from the lakes seeps into the ground, reaching wells and bavdis (stepwells).
  • The soil becomes moist and fertile.
  • Rainwater collected in these lakes can cover many miles and be used all year long.

Stepwell

  • Stepwells are wells or ponds where you can reach the water level by descending steps.
  • They can be multi-storey, with bullocks turning a water wheel to raise water to the upper levels.
    StepwellsStepwells

Customs Related to Water

  • Even today, people obtain water from ancient lakes, dharas, stepwells, and naulas.
  • Water plays a significant role in many customs and festivals.
  • When lakes fill with rainwater, residents gather around to celebrate.

The Theme of the Chapter

  • So we learned how our life is connected to the water.
  • Our life is connected to the water through the need to ritual everything.
  • Water plays an important role in our life.
  • Different people use water in their own way.
  • Wastage of water leads to the scarcity of water.
  • There are numerous ways to save water.

Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

  • In the heart of the Thar Desert, in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, is the former trading hub and princely state of Jaisalmer. 
  • It is distinguished by its yellow sandstone architecture and is referred to as the "Golden City." Jaisalmer Fort, a vast hilltop citadel supported by 99 bastions, commands the skyline. 
  • The elaborate Maharaja's Palace and intricately carved Jain temples are hidden behind its imposing walls.

Jodhpur, Rajasthan

  • The state of Rajasthan in northwest India contains the city of Jodhpur in the Thar Desert.
  • Its Mehrangarh Fort, a former palace that is now a museum and houses elaborate royal palanquins, weapons, and paintings, was built in the fifteenth century (sedan chairs). 
  • The fort, which is perched atop a rocky outcrop, looks down on the walled city and its numerous blue-painted structures.

Interesting Facts

  • Darki Mai: She resides in a village in Rajasthan's Alwar district. The women of the village used to care for their homes and animals all day long. The process of drawing water for the animals sometimes took all night. They were forced to leave the village during the summer when the wells dried up. After learning about this group, Darki Mai requested assistance. The members of the group and the villagers decided to create a lake together. Animals' access to food and water is no longer a problem. Milk sales have increased. They have begun to make more money.
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FAQs on Every Drop Counts Class 5 Notes EVS Chapter 6

1. What is the significance of water conservation in Jaisalmer as discussed in "Every Drop Counts"?
Ans. The significance of water conservation in Jaisalmer is crucial due to the arid climate of the region. The chapter highlights how traditional practices and the innovative methods employed by the locals help in managing water resources effectively. This ensures that even in a desert environment, communities can sustain their livelihoods and maintain their cultural practices.
2. Who was Al-Biruni, and what was his perspective on water in Jaisalmer?
Ans. Al-Biruni was a Persian scholar and polymath who visited India in the 11th century. His perspective on water in Jaisalmer reflects his observations on the importance of water management and its impact on the local population. He noted the ingenious systems developed by the residents to collect and store rainwater, which was vital for survival in the harsh desert conditions.
3. What are some traditional water conservation methods mentioned in the chapter?
Ans. The chapter mentions several traditional water conservation methods such as the construction of step wells, tanks, and the use of underground reservoirs. These methods have been employed by the people of Jaisalmer for centuries to store rainwater and make the most of the limited water resources available in the desert.
4. How does the chapter illustrate the relationship between people and water in Jaisalmer?
Ans. The chapter illustrates the relationship between people and water in Jaisalmer by showcasing the cultural practices, rituals, and daily life activities that revolve around water. It emphasizes how water is not just a resource but an integral part of the community’s identity, influencing their traditions, agriculture, and social structures.
5. What lessons can be learned about water management from the experiences of Jaisalmer residents?
Ans. The lessons learned about water management from the experiences of Jaisalmer residents include the importance of sustainable practices, community involvement, and innovative solutions to cope with environmental challenges. These experiences highlight the need for awareness and action regarding water conservation to ensure that future generations have access to this vital resource.
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