Social life

Social life

Agriculture and irrigation

The river Kaveri branches of into several small channels before draining into the Bay of  Bengal.These channels overflow frequently, depositing fertile soil on their banks. Water from the channels also provided necessary moisture for agriculture, particularly the cultivation of rice.Forest were cleared and land was level for agriculture in many areas.In the Delta region, embankments has to be built to prevent flooding and canals has to be constructed to carry water to the fields.In many areas, 2 crops were grown in a year. During the rule of the Cholas, farmers were considered highly by the rulers and the society alike. At a time when farming was the main occupation of most people, farmers held some of the highest positions in society.

Agriculture and irrigation received good support from the Chola kings. Large number of wells were dug and tanks constructed to assist farmers. Stone dams were put up across rivers like Kaveri, to use water for agriculture. Channels carried water from such dams to distant farms.Artificial lakes were also common, which were fed by water from the rivers.

Money earned from trade was invested in agriculture.To support population,
the Cholas took extensive step for the expasion of agriculture.More land was levelled and forests were cleared for growing crops.Land grants were given to encourage agriculture.They dug wells and constructed tanks to collect rainwater.
A well planned irrigation system was developed to bring more areas under cultivation.Rajendra chola built an artificial lake with a network of canals to supply water for irrigation.