Tank irrigation systems contribute nearly one third of the total irrigated area in south India and hence their management is an important practical need. This article examines some major considerations related to tank irrigation systems in south India. A comprehensive view of the problems affecting the sustainability of these systems is presented. The major deficiencies that influence the sustainability are inadequate maintenance. reduction in storage capacity, heavy seepage losses in the delivery system, and poor water management techniques. There is a pressing need to evolve and implement appropriate strategies that must be sound on technical, social, economical, institutional, and economical dimensions for sustainable development and management of tank systems. Important practical solutions are discussed for urgent action in the context of sustainable development and management of these irrigation systems.