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The irrigation device called ‘Araghatta’ was

(a)

A water bag made of leather pulled over a pulley

(b)

a large wheel with earthen pots tied to the outer ends of its spokes

(c)

a larger earthen pot driven by bullocks

(d)

a large water bucket pulled up by rope directly by hand

Correct Answer

(b)

Explanation

Correct answer is (B) The Araghatta is an ancient Indian irrigation device used to lift water from wells or other water sources for agricultural purposes. 🔹 What is Araghatta? • It is a water-lifting device consisting of a large vertical wheel. • The spokes of the wheel have earthen pots or small containers tied to their outer ends. • The wheel is rotated (often using animal power, like bullocks). • As the wheel turns, the pots dip into the water source, get filled, and then empty into a channel at the top as they reach the highest point in rotation. • This creates a continuous flow of water from the well to the fields. 🏛️ Historical Usage: • The Araghatta is mentioned in ancient Indian texts and was widely used before the advent of modern pumps. • It demonstrates the ingenuity of traditional Indian irrigation systems.