Regional Disparities and Sluggish Agricultural Development in Southwestern Haryana: Issues and Prospects

Abstract

The present study analyses the spatial and temporal changes in agricultural development, cropping pattern and agricultural structure of Southwestern Haryana from 1967-70 to 2017-20, with particular emphasis on irrigated and rainfed differentiation. Based on secondary data obtained from official sources such as the Statistical Abstract of Haryana, State agricultural data and Livestock Census reports, the study reveal a clear transition from a coarse cereal-pulse dominated cropping system during 1967-70 to a wheat and mustard-centric system in the post-Green Revolution period. While bajra and gram were the dominant crops during the pre-irrigation phase, the expansion of canal and groundwater irrigation led to a substantial increase in wheat acreage, particularly in the north-eastern districts and mustard in southwestern districts of the study area. By 2017-20, wheat and mustard emerged as the most dominant crop, followed by bajra, and cotton reflecting a combination of irrigation availability, agro-climatic suitability, and market incentives. The aim of the study is to analyze the regional disparities in agricultural development in Southwestern Haryana through a study of cropping patterns, irrigation, and productivity across districts. Agricultural land productivity in the study area has increased over time but it is still much lower than the average agricultural land productivity of the state and rest of the state. Cartographic and graphical techniques were employed for effective spatial visualization and interpretation of results. The findings underscore the need for region-specific agricultural planning focused on sustainable crop diversification and efficient water use in Southwestern Haryana.