International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
BS Bishoyi, RK Tarai, PP Rout, S Saren, KC Samal, MA Kishore, RK Meher and L Jena

abstract
Land evaluation through GIS-based soil resource inventory plays a pivotal role in sustainable agricultural planning and resource management. In this context, a comprehensive study was conducted to assess the land suitability for cultivating Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) and Lemon (Citrus limon) within the Guida-Kantabahal micro-watershed, situated in the Reamal block of Deogarh District, Odisha. This region, characterized by varied topography and soil diversity, was selected to explore its potential for high-value horticultural crops. The study adopted the Land Resource Inventory (LRI) approach, following standard protocols, to ensure systematic assessment of soil and land characteristics. A total of 20 representative soil profiles were identified and analysed to capture the spatial variability across the watershed. These profiles were subjected to detailed physico-chemical analysis, evaluating key parameters such as soil texture, depth, pH, organic carbon content, cation exchange capacity, base saturation, and drainage conditions. These factors are known to significantly influence the growth and yield of perennial fruit crops like Jackfruit and Lemon. The land suitability evaluation was carried out using classification criteria established by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, 1976) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research - National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (ICAR-NBSS&LUP). Based on these guidelines, each soil unit was rated and categorized into different suitability classes—ranging from highly suitable (S1) to not suitable (N). The analysis revealed that approximately 41.32% of the micro-watershed area falls under the ‘moderately suitable’ (S2) category for the cultivation of both Jackfruit and Lemon. These areas exhibit favourable characteristics such as moderate soil depth, acceptable pH levels, and good drainage. However, limitations like suboptimal nutrient availability or minor textural issues slightly reduce their suitability. On the other hand, more than 53% of the area was found to be ‘not suitable’ (N) for cultivation due to significant constraints including high soil acidity, shallow soil depth, moderate to severe erosion, and high gravel content. These limitations pose considerable challenges to root establishment and water/nutrient retention, adversely affecting plant growth. Geospatial analysis through Geographic Information System (GIS) was integral to the study, enabling precise mapping and visualization of land suitability classes across the micro-watershed. The use of GIS tools allowed for the spatial correlation of soil parameters with land characteristics, thereby enhancing the accuracy of the evaluation and facilitating targeted interventions. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for local planners, farmers, and agricultural development agencies. By identifying suitable and constrained areas, it recommends appropriate soil and crop management strategies such as liming acidic soils, improving organic matter content, adopting erosion control measures, and selecting suitable crop varieties. These recommendations aim to optimize land use, improve productivity, and ensure the long-term sustainability of agricultural practices in the region.