Analysis of crop concentration and rainfall in drought-prone areas of Sri Sathya Sai district, Rayalaseema region, Andhra Pradesh: A geo-informatics technique

Abstract:

The agricultural landscape of the Sri Sathya Sai District exhibits significant variability in crop cultivation and rainfall distribution during the 2022-2023 period. Key crops include paddy and groundnut, occupying 6,527 hectares (1.78%) and 204, 268 hectares (55.93%), respectively. Mandals such as Hindupur focus heavily on maize, while Dharmavaram has the largest cultivated area primarily dedicated to groundnut. Rainfall patterns are categorized into three ranges: less than 750 mm, 750 to 1000 mm, and over 1000 mm, influencing agricultural productivity. Regions with less than 750 mm, like C.K. Palle and Nallacheruvu, face challenges in crop yield, whereas areas receiving 750 to 1000 mm, such as Roddam and Puttaparthi, support diverse agricultural activities. High rainfall areas, including Hindupur and Amarapuram, present both productivity potential and risks of flooding. The interplay between crop concentration and rainfall underscores the need for tailored agricultural strategies and effective water management to enhance productivity and sustainability. This analysis highlights the importance of understanding local conditions for future agricultural planning and development in the district, aiming to optimize crop diversity and food security while addressing the unique climatic challenges faced by different mandals.