Fig. 83: Elevation Slope & Aspect maps

aspect maps from DEM using specialized analysis in GIS, and the derived DEM for generation of satellite ortho-images to remove ground distortion in hilly terrain.

Fig. 83: Elevation Slope & Aspect maps

8. Spatial maps of agro-meteorological parameters: Maps showing the spatial variation of agro-meteorological parameters are generated by GIS-aided geo-statistical interpolation of ground meteorological station collected point agro-meteorological data. These maps are utilized for the preparation of agro-climatic and agro-ecological micro zonation and sub zonation suggesting agricultural management, estimation of erosional soil loss etc. 9. Delineation of watersheds & micro-watersheds: Delineation and codification of watersheds and micro-watersheds in the study area are done using drainage and contour maps. Codification and delineation are done based on the Watershed Atlas of India. A drainage map is derived from topographic map and satellite data. 10. Spatial cultural features: Spatial maps showing cultural features such as roads, canals, villages, towns etc. are prepared by the digitization of the information extracted from satellite data and topographic maps and other large-scale maps (Patwari maps).

11. Revenue Maps.

12. Interpretative maps derived from soil & terrain information: Various derived maps viz. land capability, land irrigability, land productivity; suitabilities for various crops etc. are prepared by GIS-based integrated analysis using soil and terrain characteristics data following various modelling approaches.

Estimation of erosional soil loss is attempted by following the well-established Modified Universal Soil

Loss Equation (MUSLE) using remote sensing inputs and the GIS technique. Soil conservation measures and prioritization of watersheds/micro watersheds are worked out using the information of soil loss estimates.

Outcomes Achieved

Sustainable Land and Water Resource Management

Sustainable agricultural land use and cropping pattern plans of the area are generated using GIS-based logical integration of crop suitability, land productivity, land capability, and socio-economic and terrain characteristics information. Specific action plans are devised for optimum management of land and water resources through the integration of information on natural resources, socio-economic and meteorological data, and contemporary technology.

The land resources data integrated with climatic variability, location-specific agronomic packages of practices in vogue and management scenarios helps in optimum crop management practices and predicting productivity of the area.

Wastelands which are identified by 28 different categories require special attention for reclamation for conserving fertility. Priority areas are delineated, and their development plan is prepared. Most of the lands may be suitable only for Horticulture, Afforestation, and other allied purposes. Land Capability Classification (Class I to IV-Culturable Lands & Class V to VIII-Non-Cultural Lands) are to be used for spatial decision support systems.

The project on APIB exhibited the use of geospatial technology to collect scattered information and provide access to any type of information as and when needed. The information can be retrieved from a database which includes crops that can be grown with farmers' soil and water resources, varietal/hybrid selection for principal crops, a comprehensive package of practices from public and private sources, fertilizers, plant protection, cost of cultivation and prices in various markets, the area under cultivation and yield, dairying, and insurance. This information is geared up to be made available to the farmers through a web-based portal in the local language interface.

Contact Information

Name of Contact Person and Author: Designation: Organization Name: Email: Telephone: Name of Co-author: Designation: Organization Name: Email: Telephone: Name of Co-author: Designation: Organization Name: Email: Telephone: Dr. P. Kesava Rao

Head, Centre for Geo-informatics applications in RD National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Hyderabad kesava.nird@gov.in 98492 57622

Dr. NSR Prasad

Assistant Professor, Centre for Geo-informatics applications in RD National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Hyderabad nsrprasad.nird@gov.in 7896257663

Dr. M.V.Ravibabu

Associate Professor, Centre for Geo-informatics applications in RD National Institute of Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Hyderabad mvravibabu.nird@gov.in 9629835050

Alignment with the IGIF Strategic Pathways

S. No. IGIF Strategic Pathway Remarks

SP4 Data The project highlights the way disparate and in-silo data was organized, acquired, integrated, maintained and published for the benefit of multiple stakeholders. A GIS-based web portal was developed to be used by farmers in Indian

SP5 Innovation This project is a good example of the process innovation carried out to bridge the digital divide, where the farmers at the ground level can access information on soil and agriculture parameters for making informed decisions. The administration and researchers too can access the information portal for their respective needs.

SP7 Partnerships The development of APIB has considered cross-sector partnerships including farmers, financial institutions, agro-based industries and traders, extension officials, researchers/consultants/ journalists and state-level administration.

SP9 Communication and Engagement The APIB information is geared up to be made available to the farmers through a web-based portal in the local Indian languages geared for the implementation of integrated geospatial information management systems.