The parts of which of the following states had evolved a local system of canal irrigation called kulhs over four hundred years ago ?

The correct answer is Himachal Pradesh.

Key Points

• Irrigation: It refers to the supply of water to land or crops to help growth, typically by means of channels.
• Kuhls:
  • These are a traditional irrigation system in Himachal Pradesh-surface channels diverting water from natural flowing streams (khuds).
  • The water from glaciers is channelled into small canals leading to the fields. 
  • The kuhls were constructed and maintained by the village community.
  • The system consists of a temporary headwall (constructed usually with river boulders) across a khud (ravine) for storage and diversion of the flow through a canal to the fields. 
  • Since in hilly regions it is not possible to make tube wells, kulhs were developed.