In this lesson we will read about sources of water irrigation of water and different dams.

Water is essential for life. We need water to drink, cook food, wash clothes and do many other things. Farmers need water to grow crops.

SOURCES OF WATER 

What is sources of water?

Ans. Sources of water means that water gets from the nature by God is called source of water. About three - fourths of earth is covered with water. There are many sources of water:

1. Rain - It is the main source of freshwater. Farmers depend upon rainwater for their crops.

2. Groundwater - Much of the rain that falls, seeps into the ground. This is called groundwater.

3. Ponds and lakes - An area of water surrounded by land is called pond . A lake is bigger than a pond. Rainwater collects in ponds and lakes.

3. Rivers - Rivers that originates in mountain get water from melting of snow and rain . Hence they carry water throughout the year. Rivers that originates from the plateaus get water only from rain . They almost dry up during summer.

5. Seas and oceans - Most of the water on the earth is in the seas and oceans. However , this water is salty. We cannot use this.

MEANS OF IRRIGATION 

What is irrigation of water?

Ans. Irrigation of water means that water that man has made is called irrigation of water. To grow crops, farmers need sufficient and timely supply of water. This is possible only through irrigation. There are different means of irrigation of water in India.

WELLS AND TUBEWELLS

In Village people dig wells to bring groundwater to the surface. Water is drawn using a Persian wheel . Sometimes, groundwater lies at a great depth. In such case , a deep hole is dug. A tube is sunk in the hole and water is brought up using an electric pump. Such a well is called a tubewell . They are widely used in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat.