GIS BASED NATURAL RESOURCE MAPPING FOR CROP PLANNING IN UNA DISTRICT, HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

Identifying suitable locations for agricultural products is a crucial area of study, as it is vital to determine optimal regions for crop productivity and sustainable farming practices. Horticulture is a national priority in Himachal Pradesh, as the region's hilly terrain is highly conducive to horticultural crop production and plays a crucial role in environmental conservation. The present study was conducted in the Una district of Himachal Pradesh to identify the suitable areas for fruit crop production in the district. Analysis of soil data, weather data and satellite data alongwith physiographic mapping was conducted. The analytical hierarchy process approach was adopted to derive the site suitability map, supplemented by data obtained from a survey based on a questionnaire. The study has delineated the potential suitable area for fruit production of Mango, Guava, Pomegranate, Citrus and Litchi in Una.  The study highlights the necessity for developing suitable land use planning to optimize the productivity of fruits in highly suitable areas. Therefore, the study identified potential areas for fruit production and suggests that further policy to boost fruit production in Una district should be developed.