Optimization of spatial allocation of agricultural activities for a Himalayan watershed: an application of multi-objective programming approach
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Date
2006-08
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G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar - 263145 (Uttarakhand)
Abstract
In the present study, an attempt has been made to develop the optimal land use model by using multi-objective programming technique with the basic objectives viz. to minimize the soil loss and maximize net return from the Chorgaliya watershed based on resource constraints such as land availability, water availability, labour opportunities FYM availability and fodder availability. All the relevant data and information to develop the model were collected and were synthesized as per the requirement of the model. The Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE) was used to determine the soil loss from different land use activities. Having determined the soil loss coefficients, the other coefficients such as water coefficient, labour coefficient, FYM coefficient and fodder coefficient were also estimated and were incorporated to develop the model. In order to make model socially acceptable, economically viable and ecologically conducive to the inhabitants of the watershed, three alternative plans, viz. Plan I: Existing cropping pattern and livestock status with the restriction on crops preferred by farmers, Plan II. Existing cropping pattern and livestock status with the restriction on orchards and Plan III. Existing cropping pattern with the restriction on the food grains were developed. All these alternative plans were compared with the existing land use pattern in the Chorgalia watershed. Among all the alternative plans, the Plan II was found to generate maximum net return to the farmers and the least amount of soil loss from the study area.
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