Quantifying agricultural characteristics using several indicators and extensive field surveys in an ecologically fragile watershed of India

Abstract

The present research was carried out in an ecologically fragile watershed of North-East India to comprehend the agricultural growth and development by quantifying its status employing several indicators, viz. physiological density, crop diversification, crop intensity and concentration. The study has demonstrated the use of primary data collected through extensive field surveys based on multistage sampling method in conjunction with a relevant secondary database. The findings revealed marked variation within the region in cropping patterns and associated aspects. The physiological density ranges between 1.91 to 85.54, cropping intensity ranges from 69.02% to 186.42%, crop diversification (6.42 to 100.14) and crop concentration (0.32 to 4.49), respectively. Continuous monitoring of the agricultural environment and adopting site-specific crop management practices supported by relevant information would boost the agricultural outcome and sustainability. Thus, the study would assist in framing guidelines to improve the agricultural landscape of the region.