Post-Independence hangover

However, the notion that small tanks were unremunerative and their maintenance an unnecessary burden on the state remained and got further strengthened in the post-Independence period. The thrust was set on ambitious major multi-purpose river valley projects. Minor irrigation, especially in dry regions, got neglected. In fact, irreversible damage was done to minor works by assigning some of the tankbeds to private individuals for cultivation under the 'grow more food' campaign.

The first important investigation into the state of minor irrigation works in the post-colonial period was undertaken in 67-68 when the Andhra Pradesh Legislature Estimates Committee went into minor irrigation and drainage schemes. Its report is a typical example of the continuation of the colonial notion that minor works were a burden on the state and the state of their neglect was due to the failure of people to carry on "kudimaramath" (voluntary labour). The committee observed,

"Kummaki kuntas or feeder channels, which feed lower tanks, are in need of repair. Normally, under the law kudimaramath for repairs to supply channels have to be attended to by the ayacutdar. But as the ryots are poor, the feeder channels or kummakki kuntas are in despair".

Thus absolving the state of the responsibility for the neglect of tanks, the Committee went on to record: