Geostatistical and visualization analysis of crop suitability for diversification in sub-mountain area of Punjab,North-West India |
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Authors: | R Kumar P K Mehra B Singh H S Jassal B D Sharma |
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Institution: | 1.Department of Soils,Punjab Agricultural University,Ludhiana,India |
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Abstract: | This study presents a Geographic Information System (GIS)-based geostatistical and visualization analysis of crop suitability
in two blocks of sub-mountain area of Punjab under diversification programme. It combines the limitation approach of land
capability classification, productivity potential evaluation procedure and crop suitability evaluation framework of FAO. Two
blocks from the sub mountain Siwalik region of Punjab viz., Mahalpur and Garhshankar were selected. This study evaluates the capabilities of the study area for traditional crops like
wheat, paddy and maize, and recently introduced crops like sugarcane, sunflower, pea, rapeseed-mustard, potatoes and kinnow
for agricultural diversification. The suitability of the crops has been worked out at the village level. About 35–40 per cent
of total area mostly in Siwallik hills is not fit for growing any type of crop. Sandy texture, uneven topography, moderately
steep slopes and excessive drainage are responsible for unsuitability of this area. The GIS based suitability analysis for
traditional crops as well as for new crops, under diversification of agriculture has been undertaken. The geostatistical analysis
points towards suitability of relatively large areas for new crops like sunflower, potato, pea (green) and sugarcane. Forty
three and 14 per cent of total area has been found highly suitable and suitable respectively for growing green pea - a cash
crop. Thirty three per cent of total area is suitable for growing kinnow fruit. The success of diversification programme is
subject to logical government policy in terms of providing cold storage, food processing facility and marketing infrastructure. |
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