EFFECTS OF LONG-TERM IRRIGATION ON THE WATER TABLE DECLINE IN SEMI- ARID REGION USING GEO-SPATIAL TECHNIQUE

Groundwater-based irrigation plays a crucial role in sustaining agricultural production, particularly in semi-arid regions. However, intensive groundwater extraction for irrigation often leads to significant declines in water levels. This study addresses the critical issue of groundwater depletion in the semi-arid region of Churu district, Rajasthan, where dryland agriculture is practiced during the Kharif season and Rabi cultivation relies almost entirely on groundwater irrigation. Despite its importance, the relationship between irrigated agriculture and groundwater depletion has received limited attention in both water resource research and agricultural science. The present research makes an original and scientific contribution by analysing the spatial extent of irrigated agricultural areas and their impact on groundwater depth. Using geo-spatial techniques, the study evaluates the patterns of groundwater extraction and identifies the areas experiencing the highest depletion. The findings reveal a consistent and alarming increase in stress on groundwater resources, directly linked to the expansion of irrigated agriculture. The continuous decline in groundwater levels poses a long-term threat to agricultural productivity, especially in regions where groundwater forms the backbone of irrigation. The study highlights the urgent need for sustainable groundwater management to mitigate the adverse impacts of overexploitation. It emphasizes the adoption of efficient irrigation methods, crop diversification, artificial recharge structures, and policy interventions tailored to semi-arid environments. These measures are essential to ensure long-term water security and agricultural sustainability in the region.