Geographical analysis of cropping pattern in Kashmir valley, India.

Abstract

Agriculture is the primary source of economy in Kashmir Valley, as the majority of the population, almost 70%, exists on it. The Valley is separated into three geographical zones: flood plains, Karewas, and mountains. Additionally, the land utilization pattern reveals the cultivable area, gross cropped area, and cropping intensity. The primary objective of this article is to document fluctuations in agricultural patterns throughout the Kashmir valley using a seven-year reference period from 2013-14 to 2018-19. The current research is grounded on secondary data. The district was used as a unit of analysis for the cropping intensity pattern in the study area. The study reveals that cropping patterns in Kashmir Valley have shifted dramatically during a seven-year period. Variation in height, soil, and climate has significantly impacted agriculture methods throughout the districts of Kashmir valley. The district-level analysis reveals that Kupwara, Baramulla, Shopian and Bandipora districts have the least cropping intensity. While Anantnag, Pulwama, and Ganderbal have a high level of crop intensity.