GEOGRAPHICAL ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL PATTERN AND CROP COMBINATION IN SINA KOLEGAON PROJECT AREA (OSMANABAD DISTRICT, MAHARASHTRA)

Abstract

Agriculture plays a vital role in ensuring food security, livelihood generation, and rural development, forming the backbone of the Indian economy. An agricultural pattern refers to the spatial distribution of different crops cultivated in a specific region, influenced by soil, water, climate, irrigation, and market factors. Understanding these patterns helps in analyzing land use efficiency and regional development strategies. To study the crop combination, the research applies Weaver’s Classification Method, which identifies dominant crop groups based on statistical analysis of crop distribution. This method highlights whether a region follows a single-crop, two-crop, or multi-crop system, providing deeper insights into regional agricultural diversity. This study analyzes the agricultural pattern and crop combinations in the Sina Kolegaon Project Area for 2024–25 using data from the Irrigation Department, Osmanabad. Out of the total 11,674 ha, cash crops dominate with 7,035.80 ha (60.35%), followed by horticulture (1,819.29 ha; 15.57%), cereals (11.43%), pulses (6.07%), and oilseeds (6.58%). Aanala, Sonari, and Kolegaon follow a two-crop system (cash crops + horticulture), while Domgaon practices a three-crop system (cash crops + pulses + horticulture), showing higher crop diversity. Regional variation is influenced by soil type, water resources, and market demand. The findings highlight a shift from traditional cereal-based farming to a commercially oriented and diversified agricultural system.