DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate the impact of mini dams on agricultural productivity (crop yield, land use and land cover changes) and socio-economic conditions in Latamber village, Pakistan.

Methodology

A multifaceted methodology combining field surveys, departmental data collection, questionnaires, remote sensing (Landsat 8 and 9 for LULC analysis), and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) analysis. Data was collected from 60 farmers and stakeholders through close-ended questionnaires and interviews. Departmental data on crop production, water management, and climate was also utilized.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Field Surveys & Departmental Data Collection"] --> B["Questionnaire Development & Distribution"];
    B --> C["Data Collection from Farmers & Stakeholders"];
    C --> D["Remote Sensing Data Acquisition Landsat 8 & 9"];
    D --> E["LULC Classification & Change Detection"];
    D --> F["NDVI Analysis"];
    C --> G["Statistical Analysis of Questionnaire Data"];
    E --> H["Integration of LULC & NDVI Results"];
    G --> H;
    H --> I["Results & Discussion"];
    I --> J["Conclusion"];                    

Discussion

The study highlights the positive impact of mini dams on agricultural productivity and socio-economic conditions in Latamber village. The increased water availability has enabled crop diversification, adoption of new irrigation technologies, and improved yields. The reduction in barren land and increase in agricultural land suggest more efficient land use. While overall vegetation health has improved, some areas show a decrease in NDVI, warranting further investigation.

Key Findings

Mini dams have led to significant expansions in cultivation areas for crops like maize and rice, and increased wheat yield. New vegetable crops were adopted during the Rabi season. Agricultural incomes and employment opportunities have increased due to improved water availability. Land use analysis showed an increase in agricultural land and built-up areas, with a decrease in barren land. NDVI analysis indicated improved vegetation health in a significant portion of the area.

Conclusion

The mini dam project in Latamber village has demonstrably transformed agricultural practices, productivity, and socioeconomic conditions by enhancing water availability and reliability. This has led to crop diversification, adoption of new technologies, and increased yields and incomes. The project underscores the potential of infrastructural improvements to drive positive change in rural agricultural communities, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring and adaptive management.

Fact Check

* Wheat yield increased from 451.67 kg/acre before the dam to 997.22 kg/acre after the dam.
* The study area, Latamber, has a geographic area of 306 km².
* The population of Latamber was 100,000 according to the 2023 Census.

Mind Map