Jalkund (Low-Cost Rainwater Harvesting Structure): Boon for Marginal Farmers in Enhancing Winter Vegetable Production
Joyoshree Mahanta*
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Garo Hills, Tura, Meghalaya (794 005), India
Naorem Arun Kumar Singh
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Garo Hills, Tura, Meghalaya (794 005), India
Priyanka Saha
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Garo Hills, Tura, Meghalaya (794 005), India
Monica Suresh Singh
ICAR-Krishi Vigyan Kendra, West Garo Hills, Tura, Meghalaya (794 005), India
B.P. Singh
ICAR-RC for NEH Region, Umiam, Meghalaya (793 103), India
DOI: NIL
Keywords: Jalkund, Monocropping, Rainwater harvesting, Vegetable production
Abstract
This article is an attempt to analyze the impact of Jalkund which is a simple, low cost water harvesting structure. The state of Meghalaya receives abundant rainfall during monsoon season but faces water scarcity during the dry winter months starting from November to March, leading to monocropping practice by farmers. The solution to this problem is the construction of low-cost water harvesting structures by using UV-resistant polyethylene films. These films are durable, have high tensile strength, can withstand external pressures, prevent seepage, percolation losses and affordable for the small and marginal farmers. The introduction of Jalkund technology under NICRA project in Shri Nickseng D. Sangma’s field at Norangre, West Garo Hills district led to a more increase in income generation by diversifying and improving the productivity of crops. Thus, Jalkund plays a crucial role in addressing water security challenges for both agricultural and domestic use in remote and resource-scarce areas.
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Reference
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