A GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS OF CROP CONCENTRATION IN SOLAPUR DISTRICT

Abstract

The History of Agriculture in Solapur reveals that famine is of common occurrence from ages due to inadequate and ill distributed rains. Partial and complete damage to Kharif and Rabi crops leads to water scarcity. And hence, Solapur district was identified as one of the 72 drought-prone districts in India. Bajra, Sunflower, Red gram, Groundnut, Horse gram, Moth bean and Black gram are the major rainfed kharif crops of the district and are generally grown on medium deep and shallow soils. While rabi Jowar, Safflower, Gram are main rainfed rabi crops grown generally medium deep and deep soils. Sugarcane, Sunflower, Wheat and summer Groundnut are the major irrigated crops grown in the district. The area under fruit and vegetable crops under irrigated condition is increasing speedily under fruit crops Ber, Pomegranate and Grape has occupied major area, while few areas is under Mango, Lime & Sapota and these fruits of the district have captured the national as well as international market common vegetables under irrigated are Onion, Chilli, Brinjal, Tomato, Okra, Bitter gourd, Cucumber and leafy vegetables. A little area is under flowers and are mainly Merigold, Chrysanthemum, Tuberose and Rose. The main objectives of the present research paper are to analyse the impact of rainfall on the cropping pattern in study area. Because rainfall has been considered a gamble of agriculture as it is strongly influenced by the vagaries of the monsoon. The drought-prone area in the district on annual rainfall occurs once in five years. Therefore, rainfall is an important determinant for the agriculture pattern in study area. The climate, soil type, and water availability as well as some socio-economic factors such as farmer's decisions, market demand, and government policies play a significant role in determining the crops grown in the region. Solapur district's dry climate and soil conditions make it suitable for crops like sugarcane, pomegranate, and pulses.