Evaluation of percolation tank as soil and water conservation measure in Malwa-Nimar region

In a study conducted by AICRPDA Indore during 1991-2019 on the rainwater management aspects through percolation tanks constructed in on farm and on station trials at various locations in Malwa and Nimar region, it was observed that construction of percolation tanks and thus collection of runoff water is very beneficial in terms of enhancing water availability in nearby open wells and tube wells. Based on the experiences gathered from all these percolation tanks, it can be pointed out that these percolation tanks are instrumental in enhancing availability of irrigation water, modifying crop diversification, reducing offsite damage to environment and downstream fields due to uncontrolled runoff and through recharging the ground water and ultimately in increasing the farm productivity and income. Further, it is observed that in Malwa and Nimar region, various geological situations are such located that many percolation tanks can be constructed which can ultimately enhance the availability of ground water in the area and crop production through better rainwater management.