Browsing by Author "Mandal, D. K."

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Open Access
Impact of soil properties on agricultural land use pattern in Siliguri Sub-Division, West Bengal
(University of North Bengal, 2023) Sarkar, Abhisek; Mandal, D. K.
The Ph. D research conducted on the topic "Impact of Soil Properties on Agricultural Land Use Pattern of Siliguri Sub-Division" delves into a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between soil properties and their profound influence on agricultural land utilization in the unique agro-climatic context of Siliguri Sub-Division. This study assumes paramount significance given the growing global demand for sustainable and efficient land use practices to ensure food security and environmental preservation. Siliguri Sub-Division, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas and characterized by diverse topographical features, presents a challenging yet promising environment for agricultural activities. Recognizing the pivotal role of soil properties in determining the success of crop cultivation, this research embarks on an extensive analysis encompassing multiple aspects of soil, ranging from texture and pH to nutrient content and drainage patterns. Through a meticulously structured methodology involving field surveys, laboratory analyses, and advanced statistical modeling techniques, the research seeks to unravel the intricate interactions between soil characteristics and crop growth outcomes. The findings of this study in the first chapter offer invaluable insights on the introduction and general background of the Siliguri Sub-Division. It deals with location and physical setup of the study area, how the soils of the study area are made by the depositional word of the rivers flowing down from the Himalayan Mountains. This fertile soil has influenced growth of various types of vegetation, tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, agricultural lands, infrastructures and housing complex, etc. there are some problem in this area regarding the growth of agriculture. Some major problems were discussed in this chapter and with some aims and objective and a frame work was setup and four hypotheses were laid down to analysis the soil properties and bring out the solutions. There are some methodologies provided like the collection of soils, calculating agricultural productivity index by following the scheme of Mohammad Shafi. USDA land capability classification was done to show the degree of arable and non-arable land of this region. With the help of Kendall’s W coefficient, farmer’s perception in the adoption of modern agricultural technologies were derived. All these data were incorporated in the ArcGIS software and maps were prepared. And in the last some literature reviews were done and references were incorporated. The second chapter acumen the researcher with valuable information about the soil properties and agricultural land use. It provides us information about the suitability of various soil types for specific crop varieties. By systematically evaluating soil properties, the research provides local farmers with pragmatic recommendations for optimal crop selection based on soil compatibility. This informed decision-making process not only enhances agricultural productivity but also contributes to the sustainable utilization of land resources. Each soil properties and its impact on agricultural land use were discussed, how the soil properties were enhancing or limiting the growth of agriculture. Moreover, the research delves into the repercussions of improper soil management practices, highlighting the potential adverse consequences of soil erosion, degradation, and nutrient imbalances on overall crop sustainability and yield. In the third chapter the research investigates the intricate relationship between soil properties and agricultural productivity, focusing on their reciprocal influence and the mechanisms underlying their interactions. By employing a comprehensive approach that combines field studies, laboratory analyses, and advanced modeling techniques, the study aims to elucidate the specific ways in which soil characteristics such as texture, nutrient content, pH, and organic matter influence crop yield, quality, and overall agricultural output. The soils were laboratory tested and their fertility was classified. API of M. Shafi was incorporated to lay out the agriculturally productive region and a map was prepared on its basis. And on the basis of API of M. Shafi different GP was classified into different levels of agricultural productivity. The fourth chapter of this research delves into the critical domain of USDA Land Capability Classification and its pivotal role in guiding effective agricultural land use planning. This Ph. D study aims to comprehensively evaluate the USDA classification system's applicability in diverse geographic contexts, considering its implications for sustainable land management and agricultural productivity. Through a combination of geospatial analysis, field assessments, and stakeholder consultations, the research endeavors to assess the accuracy and relevance of the classification system in modern land use planning scenarios. By addressing key questions related to soil fertility, topography, drainage, and erosion potential, the study aims to provide practical insights that can inform land use policies, mitigate environmental risks, optimize crop selection, and enhance overall land productivity. This chapter also deals with the Taxonomic classification of soil provide a layout in the form of map on the basis of such classification. The findings of this research contribute to advancing the understanding of how USDA land capability classification can effectively inform agricultural land use planning strategies, fostering more resilient and productive agro-ecosystems. The fifth chapter discusses the research's significance extends beyond the realm of agricultural practice, resonating with policy formulation and land use planning and management. By elucidating the intricate connections between soil properties and land utilization, the study provides crucial insights for policymakers and land planners to devise effective strategies for sustainable land use. Through a comprehensive review of best practices, technology adoption, and policy implications, the study seeks to contribute to the development of context-specific solutions for enhancing soil quality, optimizing resource use efficiency, and ensuring long-term agricultural viability. The outcomes of this research hold significant potential for informing agricultural policies, promoting sustainable farming practices, and safeguarding food security in an ever-changing global landscape. The research also underscores the importance of adopting context-specific approaches, recognizing the nuanced interplay of soil properties within Siliguri Sub-Division's unique environment. The sixth chapter deals with the culmination of extensive research and rigorous analysis, this Ph. D study presents significant findings that shed light on critical aspects of the chosen research topic. Through a comprehensive investigation encompassing field studies, data collection, and advanced methodologies, this research has uncovered novel insights into the subject matter. The major findings highlight key patterns, correlations, and trends that were previously unexplored, contributing to the overall body of knowledge in the field. These findings have broader implications, offering valuable information for policy-makers, practitioners, and researchers alike. Building upon these findings, the study concludes with a synthesis of the research outcomes, emphasizing their relevance in addressing the research questions and objectives. A thorough perspective on the subject is provided by the conclusions drawn, which are backed up by substantial data and rigorous analysis. The report also describes potential directions for further research and suggests ways that the results might be used in real-world situations. In conclusion, this research makes major contributions to our understanding of the subject and the implications it raises, laying the groundwork for future scholarly inquiry and well-informed decision-making. In essence, the Ph. D research on the "Impact of Soil Properties on Agricultural Land Use Pattern of Siliguri Sub-Division" serves as a pioneering endeavor in addressing the critical nexus between soil properties and crop cultivation. Through a rigorous exploration of soil characteristics, the study not only empowers local farmers with informed decision-making tools but also informs policymakers and land planners in their pursuit of sustainable development. As a comprehensive analysis with far-reaching implications, this research stands as a testament to the enduring significance of understanding soil properties in shaping the agricultural landscape and ensuring food security in Siliguri Sub-Division and beyond.
Open Access
Problems and prospect of Balurghat municipal area in Dakshin Dinajpur district, West Bengal
(University of North Bengal, 2012) Kundu, Prabir Kumar; Mandal, D. K.
Title: PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF BALURGHAT MUNICIPAL AREA IN DAKSHIN DINAJPUR DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL The present study on Balurghat Municipal area is embodied with the urban problems and their effects on the people. There are some motivating factors which attract the researcher to study a particular town like Balurghat viz. - partition of Bengal as a causative factor behind the origin of Balurghat town, rapid increase in population due to heavy influx of immigrants from erstwhile East Pakistan, rural depopulation in the surroundings of the town, changes in the trend of population growth as well as land use pattern and related problems. The town Balurghat experienced several unplanned phases of urban expansion over the decades~ As a result, flood vis-a-vis water-logging becomes one of the chronic problems for the town which ultimately resists the acceleration of socio-economic and cultural prosperity of Balurghat. Hence, it is clear that as the population increases, the problem of water-logging also increases simultaneously. Since 1990, the situation became the worst because of natural factor coupled with the human factor have aggravated the menace of inundation and waterlogging in the town. It is true that river Atreyee has undergone several shifting of her courses upon this aggradational plain over the last 200 years. But the decay of the drainage conditions of both the channels of Danga Khari and river Atreyee is not too much natural as it is much more by the unprecedented human interferences into the fluvial system. Ongoing construction of the new urban sewer and storm-water disposal system according to the Master Plan is on the final stage. It is expected that the age-old problem of water-logging in Balurghat town may be mitigated comprehensively through this plan only with few exceptions in a year when there will be unprecedented high flood level in river Atreyee. Citizens as well as the municipal administration are very hopefully looking forward to overcome this menace in the near future. There is no denying that the overall transport system of Balurghat town is now quite better what it was ten years ago. The days of painful journey of the citizen are now almost become to an end_ by the introduction of railway track while the availability of super quality express road (SH-10) makes it more convenient. However, such situation will definitely attract the government as well as the capitalists to establish several kinds of agro-based and small scale industries in and around Balurghat town. A survey has been made for the Balurghat-Hili railway track and the work is on progress. So it can be expected that in the near future Balurghat must join with Bangladesh through railway network. If it is possible a new horizon will open in the trade and commerce sector of Dakshin Dinajpur District which will ultimately strengthens the socio-economic structure of the District as well as of the Balurghat town. Once the partition made the town Balurghat almost infirm and may be the railway connection with Bangladesh in near future will unveil a new chapter in the socio~ economic, cultural and political aspects of Balurghat. Citizens are counting days in the state ofthat dream. Generation of solid waste continues to increase in urban India with rapid urbanization, rising incomes, changing consumption patterns and a shift from recycling to a throw-away society. In any urban areas, the problem of solid waste management is very acute due to the dense development and congestion. SWM is an obligatory function of ULBs in India. Most of the ULBs are unable to cope with the challenging task of collection, transportation and disposal of solid wastes not only due to rapid urbanization but also due to the unavailability of required open spaces near the urban centres for land filling. Therefore, wastes often accumulates in open spaces, fallow lands, streets, stagnant water bodies and even in the rivers causing serious health and environmental problems for the urban dwellers and also for the rurban people living nearer to the town or city. Not only that the accumulation of uncollected waste pollutes ground water as well as surface water through leaching and runoff respectively. However, in case of Balurghat town, SWM consumes a significant proportion of municipal budget but revenues from the service are nil. The Municipality is also often under-staffed and lack of adequate number of vehicles to transport wastes. Disposal of waste is becoming an even more serious problem as the existent dumping yard is going to be unable to take more waste in the future while the availability of land within the accessible distance becoming scarce. Management of municipal waste is a service which needs efficiency and also substantial financial support in order to bring about improvement in the service. But the present situation in respect to SWM in Balurghat town is far below the wanted level. The huge amount of waste generated every day makes a severe threat to the urban environment of Balurghat and this is a burning problem like all other towns of West Bengal. Three essential components are required in this ground on regular basisCollection, Transportation and Disposal of such wastes with keen attention and probable innovation wherever necessary. The deficiency in the water supply system may be solved through the implementation of the ongoing 'Water Supply Scheme' under JNNURM. In respect to the upliftment of healthcare system, keen attention should be given particularly on the District Hospital as it is the only hope for the common people. It is very hopeful event that few schemes are already approved from the government side and few are waiting for approval to open some new wards in District Hospital like Neo-natal ward, Nutritional rehabilitation centre, Thalasemia day-care centre, Genetic ward, 4 bedded ICCU, Special clinic for diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Rupees 10 crores has announced for each to construct another 200 extended beds and for promoting the District Hospital to Super Specialty Status.· Citizens are eagerly waiting for those fine days. It is a challenge for India's urban planning to accommodate an additional 10 million urban dwellers per year, provide them with adequate public services and infrastructure, create opportunities for economic development, and to ensure that urbanization is environmentally sustainable. It will be a democratic and participatory planning process so as to incorporate the needs of the people, particularly poor and socially as well as economically disadvantaged groups. In order to make the urban planning and development process sustainable, it would be appropriate to interlink between the planning framework comprising national level strategies, regional level strategies, metropolitan level strategies and city/ town level as well as ward levelland use and development plans and strategies. State Government needs to take concrete steps to constitute the legal and institutional framework that should provide the ULBs with adequate infrastructure and manpower to undertake the preparation of such plans. It should be accelerated further by developing urban and regional information system and providing access to remotely sensed data, aerial photographs, and GIS techniques to build a complete database for the Balurghat Municipal area. With such strong database the Balurghat Municipal area will be capable for coverage of urban population with basic urban services. Prabir Kumar Kundu (Researcher)