Spatial Distribution and Analysis of Farm Ponds in Jaipur District, Rajasthan

Abstract

The primary challenge faced by farmers in the Jaipur district revolves around the scarcity of water for irrigation, exacerbated by the continuous decline in groundwater levels. This scarcity not only diminishes agricultural productivity but also hinders overall agricultural development. Consequently, rain becomes the sole recourse for irrigation. In response to this pressing issue, both the Central and State Governments have initiated various schemes, such as the National Horticulture Mission, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana, National Agricultural Development Scheme, and Atal Ground Water Scheme. These schemes aim to ensure water availability for irrigation, with a focus on constructing farm ponds subsidized under these programs. Rainwater harvesting from these ponds serves as a vital source for irrigation. Tools like GPS, Arc GIS, and Google Earth Pro have been utilized for this. The spatial distribution pattern of agricultural ponds has been ascertained using nearest neighbour analysis (NNA), special autocorrelation (Moran’s' I index), and hotspot analysis for mapping and spatial analysis. Special Auto had a score of 0.156363, while the NNA Index received a score of 0.39 7477. As a result, the study's findings demonstrate that the district's farm pond distribution pattern is cluster-type. In addition, a hotspot study reveals that the Jhotwara, Sanganer, and Jalsu blocks have higher concentrations of form pond.