Assessment of land suitability for rice production in Sambalpur district of Odisha using GIS-based techniques

Abstract

Evaluating land suitability is essential for enhancing food production, especially in rice agriculture. This study seeks to assess land suitability for rice farming through Geospatial and Geographic Information System (GIS) methodologies. The evaluation conducted in the Sambalpur District of Odisha employed five indicators, illustrated in GIS raster maps: land elevation, slope, annual rainfall, flood risk, and soil type. A quantitative scoring system was utilized to classify these indicators into four categories of suitability: highly suitable (S1), moderately suitable (S2), marginally suitable (S3), and not suitable (N). The findings revealed that the study area comprised three land suitability categories: highly suitable (86%), moderately suitable (7%), and marginally suitable (7%). Overall, the attributes of land elevation, slope, and rainfall were favorable for rice cultivation. Nevertheless, the acidic soil conditions posed challenges for rice farming. Additionally, flood risks in regions with low slopes and elevations represented significant threats to rice fields. This research offers valuable insights for policymakers in devising effective land use strategies for rice production, particularly in tropical areas.