Spatial assessment of soil fertility through GIS techniques in Shahdol District of Madhya Pradesh

Abstract

This study focused on the spatial distribution and assessment of soil fertility parameters in Shahdol district of Madhya Pradesh using a GIS approach. The physical parameters of soil (pH, EC, OC) and macro nutrients (N, P, K) were considered as key factors for soil fertility mapping. Nutrient data were sourced from the geoportal of the Department of Science and Technology in Madhya Pradesh and were subsequently used for spatial variability map generation. Through a comprehensive geo-spatial analysis of plant nutrient availability, soil fertility maps were created as vital instruments for effective soil and nutrient management, ultimately enhancing sustainable agricultural productivity. The findings indicated that the majority of the soils examined fell within the slightly acidic to neutral pH range, with organic carbon levels distributed as follows: 33.19% in the low category, 65.53% in the medium category, and 1.28% in the high category. The available nitrogen levels ranged from 132.2 to 396.61 kg ha-1, available phosphorus levels spanned from 15.48 to 45.09 kg ha-1, and available potassium levels varied from 97.96 to 325.95 kg ha-1. Integrating this quantitative data with the developed soil fertility maps for Shahdol district will be key to optimizing soil nutrient management strategies, thereby enhancing crop yields and quality.