Changes In Cropping Pattern

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Changes in Cropping pattern

Cropping pattern means the proportion of area

under various crops at a point of time or yearly

sequence and spatial arrangement of crops and

Changes in cropping pattern

Cropping pattern means the proportion of area

under various crops at a point of time or yearly

sequence and spatial arrangement of crops and

Changes in cropping pattern

Cropping pattern means the proportion of area

under various crops at a point of time or yearly

sequence and spatial arrangement of crops and

Changes in cropping pattern

Cropping pattern means the proportion of area

under various crops at a point of time or yearly

sequence and spatial arrangement of crops and

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and drought followed by drought, farmers ar

Land Utilization

The percent share of the different segments of land use of the total geographical area of the state: 162.97 lakh hectares is as follows:

Net area sown 37.29% Forest 22.63 %
Current fallow lands 9.18%
Land put non-agricultural uses 12.57%
Barren and uncultivable land 8.26%
Other fallow, cultivable waste lands 7.81%
Remaining land 2.26%

The Land utilisation particulars from 2008-09 to 2016- 17 are given in the Annexure 5.1 and district wise land utilisation particulars during 2016-17 are given in Annexure 5.2.The following

Soil-types/”>Soil Types

There are various types of soils and the formation of a soil is primarily influenced by major factors – Climate, altitude and composition of bedrock etc. Disproportion in the distribution of rainfall in the country and excessive heat contribute special characters to the soils. Most of soils in the State are made up of a combination of three basic types, namely, Sand, silt, and clay. Category wise soils are given in Annexure 5.3. Of the 22 categories of soils adding to the total geographical area of the state, six types are predominant and together account for over 88% of the area.

Land Holdings

The data on land holdings is being collected since 1970- 71 through a quinquennial census of land holdings, the latest available data relates to 2010-11. The Average size of land holdings in the state has marginally declined to 1.06 hectares during 2010-11 from 1.13 hectares in 2005-06. The number of holdings has increased from 72.16 lakh in 2005- 06 to 76.21 lakh in 2010-11

Comparative picture of Area and Production under food grains and paddy

The area as well as production of food grains for the year 2017-18 are expected to show an increase in comparison with the previous year achievements viz, 2016-17. However, a marginal decline of 0.47 lk ha. in area took place in case of Paddy crop during 2017-18.

Expansion of Area under Paddy and Major Millets during 2017-18 lead to an increase of 5.65% in the production of Food grains.

Cropping Intensity

The cropping intensity, the ratio of gross cropped area to net cropped area, one of the indicators of assessing effi ciency of agriculture sector has not undergone much change in the recent past. The cropping intensity for the year 2016-17 has marginally improved to 1.25 from 1.24 last year. This to be further stepped up to 1.50 by ensuring adequate Irrigation and changing cropping pattern. Punjab and Haryana with cropping intensities respectively at 1.91 at 1.81 stand as National benchmarks.

Gross and Net Area Irrigated

The gross area irrigated in the State increased to 35.82 lakh hectares in 2016-17 from 35.47 lakh hectares in 2015- 16. The net area irrigated in the state stands at 27.19 lakh hectares in 2016-17.

Agriculture Extension Programmes – Mission based approach

In line with the Government of India’s commitment to double the farm income once in fi ve years, the State Government has started implementing double digit Growth-3/”>Inclusive Growth strategy with strategic interventions in agriculture sector contributing to higher Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). The government is working in a mission mode to attain sustainable agricultural production duly competing with the best performing states in the country with minimum cultivation cost, targeting higher net returns to farmer.
The Government has got clear vision to increase the food grain productivity from 2641Kgs/Ha. to 4409 Kgs/Ha. marching towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2029. It is aimed to transform the Agriculture sector in the state into a dynamic, high growth sector. Strategies have been devised to double the contribution of Agriculture to the GSDP to Rs.60000 Cr. by 2021-22 from the current level of Rs.31961 Cr (constant prices 2015-16).

Key strategies to realize the vision:

Modernization of market yards and Rythu Bazaar shall signifi cantly improve the income of farmers.
Linking to e-NAM to improve farmers’ income
Involvement of marginal and small farmers in crop diversifi cation and Food Security are the important aspects to be addressed in accelerating crop diversifi cation in the state

Promoting poly crop system in the rain fed areas of the state to ensure sustainable income to the farmer in the event of drought situations also which is a common phenomenon of Rayalaseema districts of the state.
Increasing cropping intensity through seasonal discipline especially in Godavari Delta areas where the farmers can take three crops in a year (Paddy – Paddy – Pulse).
Promotion of Integrated Crop Management through INM, IPM, effi cient water management.
Promotion of Green Manure crops on a Mission mode.
Involvement of ANGRAU and other National and International Institutes

through sectoral approach and there is a need to

apply modern science and technology to enhance

productivity on a sustainable basis. There should

be a suitable institutional mechanism for scientific

management, conservation and d

Shifts in Cropping Pattern

In 1970-71, the major crop grown in the state was rice. It covered 25.30 per cent of the gross cropped area of 13.04 M ha. The next major crop was sorghum (19.44%) followed by groundnut (11.58 %), small millets (6.59 %), pearl millet (4.25 %), green gram 3.66 (%) and horse gram (3.22 %). The area covered by finger millet, Cotton, spices and fruits and vegetables each ranged between 2 and 3 per cent, while the area covered by maize, red gram, black gram, sesamum, tobacco and chillies ranged between 1 and 2 per cent only. The rest of the crops, viz. bengal gram, other pulses, sugarcane and other oilseeds covered less than 1 per cent each of the gross cropped area.

While the changes in the cropping pattern in the state during the period 1970-71 to 2004-2005, position of the most dominant crop, rice, remained more or less the same.In fact, the proportion of rice area in gross cropped area kept increasing reaching a peak of 31.27 per cent in 2000-2001. However, there was a drastic fall thereafter and in 2004-05 it fell to 25.17 per cent. The area under total Cereals and millets also declined drastically, the only exception being maize. The proportion of area under maize increased from 1.95 per cent in 1970-71 to 2.55 per cent in 1980-81, 2.36 per cent in 1990-91, 3.67 per cent in 2000-2001 and 5.39 per cent in 2004-05. Similarly, a significant area increases in the prominence of pulses, especially, the bengal gram (chickpea), red gram and green gram except horse gram. The area under oilseeds was subjected to wide fluctuations mainly on account of groundnut. Though, a substantial shift was perceived in favour of the commercial crops, particularly, sugarcane, whereas, the area under other commercial crops, viz. chillies, tobacco and cotton was noted instable. An impeccable change in favour of the cultivation of spice crops and drugs and Narcotics was witnessed in the state. Remarkably, the proportion of area under high-value crops (fruits and vegetables) increased from 2.7 per cent in 1970-71 to 3.8 per cent in 1990-91 but after 1990s, it uplifted rapidly reaching 6.06 per cent in 2000-01 and 6.90 per cent in 2004-05.

The shifts in cropping pattern differed significantly across the three regions, viz. coastal Andhra, Rayalaseema and Telangana (Figs. 2 to 4). In 1970-71, the predominant crop in the coastal Andhra region was rice. The proportion of area under rice declined from 43.86 per cent in 1970-71 to 39.59 per cent in 2004-05. The area under coarse cereals also declined drastically. On the other side, a significant shift was observed in favour of pulses: green gram, horse gram, black gram); commercial crops (sugarcane, cotton, chillies); and high-value crops (fruits and vegetables).

Until 1980s sorghum was the main crop in the Telangana region and area under this was somehow increased from 29.35 per cent in 1970- 71 and 29.47 per cent 1980-81, but, after that sorghum area was declined drastically to 17.47 per cent in 1990-91 and further to 9.73 per cent in 2004-05. The area under commercial crop cotton has exhibited sharply increasing from 1.85 per cent in 1970-71 to 13.98 per cent in 2004-05. The cropping pattern changes in favour of chillies, spice crops and fruits and vegetables was witnessed in all the periods.

Remarkably, significant area gains were identified in the crops like maize, bengal gram (chickpea) and red gram in all the three regions of the state. For instance, in 2000-01 onwards, the expansion of area under maize and bengal gram (chickpea) crop noticed increasing growth due to the adoption of single cross hybrids. Particularly, there are eight districts includes Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Mahbubnagar, Medak and Khammam in Telangana region and Guntur and West Godavari districts in Coastal Andhra jointly contributes above than 80 per cent in the total maize production in the state. Although, the growth of maize yield is higher in a resource poor district in Mahbubnagar, which accounts 33 percent followed by the Guntur district during TE 2000-01 to 2004-05. Furthermore, in these two districts the area under maize crop were expanded 7000 ha in every year from the past 5 years

On the other hand, black gram, green gram, red gram and bengal gram (chickpea) are the principal pulse crops, whereas, 70 per cent of chickpea production were predominantly grown in Kurnool, Prakasam and Anantapur districts in the state. Moreover, it is emerging as a commercial crop in black cotton soil of Andhra Pradesh, particularly, because of higher returns and stability in productivity. Besides, a low risk crop and its suitable in a diverse dry land agroclimatic conditions.

Changes in cropping pattern are the result of a number of factors, including changes in climate, technology, and economics. These changes can have a significant impact on the Environment, as well as on the livelihoods of farmers. There are a number of ways to mitigate the negative impacts of changes in cropping pattern, such as using sustainable agricultural practices. It is important to monitor changes in cropping pattern and to develop strategies to adapt to these changes.

Table of Contents

Causes of changes in cropping pattern

There are a number of factors that can lead to changes in cropping pattern. These include:

Changes in climate: Climate Change is leading to changes in the growing season, as well as to changes in the types of crops that can be grown in a particular area. For example, in some areas, the growing season is becoming longer, which allows farmers to grow crops that were previously not possible to grow in that area. In other areas, the growing season is becoming shorter, which limits the types of crops that can be grown. Climate change is also leading to changes in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as droughts, floods, and heat waves. These events can damage crops and make it difficult for farmers to grow them.
Changes in technology: New technologies, such as genetically modified crops and precision agriculture, can lead to changes in cropping pattern. Genetically modified crops can be designed to be resistant to pests or diseases, or to tolerate drought or other environmental stresses. Precision agriculture uses sensors and other technologies to monitor crops and apply inputs, such as fertilizer and water, more precisely. This can help to improve crop yields and reduce the use of inputs.
Changes in economics: Changes in the prices of crops, as well as in the demand for different types of crops, can lead to changes in cropping pattern. For example, if the price of corn increases, farmers may be more likely to grow corn instead of other crops. Changes in the demand for crops can also be driven by changes in consumer preferences, such as a growing demand for organic or locally grown food.

Impacts of changes in cropping pattern

Changes in cropping pattern can have a significant impact on the environment. For example, changes in the types of crops that are grown can lead to changes in land use, water use, and soil erosion. Changes in cropping pattern can also have a significant impact on the livelihoods of farmers. For example, changes in the demand for crops can lead to changes in the types of crops that are grown, as well as to changes in the demand for labor.

Mitigation and adaptation strategies

There are a number of ways to mitigate the negative impacts of changes in cropping pattern. These include:

Using sustainable agricultural practices: Sustainable agricultural practices, such as Crop Rotation, cover cropping, and no-till farming, can help to protect the environment and the livelihoods of farmers. Crop rotation involves planting different types of crops in the same field each year. This helps to prevent the build-up of pests and diseases, and it also helps to improve soil Health. Cover cropping involves planting a cover crop, such as a legume or grass, in the fall or winter. Cover crops help to protect the soil from erosion and they also help to improve Soil fertility. No-till farming involves planting crops without disturbing the soil. This helps to reduce soil erosion and it also helps to conserve water.
Developing new crops: Developing new crops that are resistant to drought or pests can help farmers to adapt to changes in climate. For example, the development of drought-tolerant corn varieties has helped farmers to grow corn in areas that were previously too dry.
Monitoring changes in cropping pattern: It is important to monitor changes in cropping pattern so that we can understand the impacts of these changes and develop strategies to mitigate the negative impacts.

Conclusion

Changes in cropping pattern are a complex issue with a number of causes and impacts. There are a number of ways to mitigate the negative impacts of changes in cropping pattern, such as using sustainable agricultural practices and developing new crops. It is important to monitor changes in cropping pattern and to develop strategies to adapt to these changes.

What is a cropping pattern?

A cropping pattern is the combination of crops that are grown on a farm or in a region. It is determined by a number of factors, including climate, soil type, water availability, and market demand.

What are the different types of cropping patterns?

There are many different types of cropping patterns, but some of the most common include:

Monoculture: This is a system in which a single crop is grown on a farm. This can be efficient in terms of labor and Resources, but it can also be risky if the crop is susceptible to pests or diseases.
Mixed cropping: This is a system in which two or more crops are grown together. This can help to reduce the risk of crop failure and improve soil fertility.
Rotational cropping: This is a system in which different crops are grown on the same land in a regular rotation. This helps to prevent the build-up of pests and diseases, and it can also improve soil fertility.

What are the benefits of changing cropping patterns?

There are a number of benefits to changing cropping patterns, including:

Increased crop yields: By rotating crops or planting different varieties of the same crop, farmers can often increase their crop yields.
Reduced risk of crop failure: By planting a variety of crops, farmers can reduce the risk of crop failure due to pests, diseases, or weather conditions.
Improved soil health: By rotating crops or planting cover crops, farmers can improve the health of their soil.
Increased Biodiversity-2/”>Biodiversity: By planting a variety of crops, farmers can increase the biodiversity on their farms.
Reduced environmental impact: By changing cropping patterns, farmers can reduce their environmental impact.

What are the challenges of changing cropping patterns?

There are a number of challenges to changing cropping patterns, including:

Increased costs: Changing cropping patterns can often involve increased costs, such as the cost of new seeds or the cost of hiring labor.
Reduced yields: In the short term, changing cropping patterns can sometimes lead to reduced yields.
Increased risk: Changing cropping patterns can sometimes increase the risk of crop failure.
Lack of knowledge: Farmers may not have the knowledge or resources to change their cropping patterns.
Lack of markets: There may not be a market for the crops that farmers want to grow.

What are some examples of successful changes in cropping patterns?

There are many examples of successful changes in cropping patterns. One example is the adoption of no-till farming in the United States. No-till farming is a system of farming in which the soil is not disturbed by plowing. This has helped to reduce soil erosion and improve soil health.

Another example is the adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) in many parts of the world. IPM is a system of pest control that uses a variety of methods, including biological control, cultural control, and chemical control. This has helped to reduce the use of pesticides and improve the health of the environment.

What are some of the future trends in cropping patterns?

Some of the future trends in cropping patterns include:

Increased use of precision agriculture: Precision agriculture is a system of farming that uses technology to manage crops and Livestock more precisely. This can help to improve crop yields and reduce the use of resources.
Increased use of Organic Farming: Organic farming is a system of farming that does not use synthetic pesticides or Fertilizers. This is becoming more popular as consumers become more concerned about the health of the environment.
Increased use of vertical farming: Vertical farming is a system of farming in which crops are grown in vertically stacked layers. This is a more efficient use of land and water, and it can be used in urban areas.

Which of the following is not a factor that affects cropping patterns?
(A) Climate
(B) Soil type
(C) Government policy
(D) The availability of labor
Which of the following is a major change in cropping patterns that has occurred in recent years?
(A) A shift from subsistence farming to commercial farming
(B) A decrease in the use of chemical fertilizers
(C) An increase in the use of genetically modified crops
(D) A decrease in the use of irrigation
Which of the following is a positive effect of changes in cropping patterns?
(A) Increased crop yields
(B) Reduced soil erosion
(C) Increased biodiversity
(D) Reduced Water Pollution
Which of the following is a negative effect of changes in cropping patterns?
(A) Increased use of pesticides
(B) Decreased soil fertility
(C) Increased greenhouse gas emissions
(D) All of the above
Which of the following is the most important thing to consider when making changes to cropping patterns?
(A) The impact on the environment
(B) The impact on the economy
(C) The impact on Society
(D) All of the above