Geospatial analysis to identify millet suitable areas in the upland rice ecosystem of Odisha

Odisha is a prominent state for rainfed rice cultivation in India which faces severe challenges posed by climate change-induced weather uncertainties. Millets are climate-smart, nutritious crops that can substitute rainfed upland rice in the state. This study identified suitable areas for millet cultivation in the upland regions of Odisha using Sentinel-2 time-series data, DEM and ground data. Through spectral matching techniques, the study accurately delineated areas suitable for millet introduction under upland rice ecosystem. The spatially explicit information provides valuable guidance for the targeted introduction of millets and supporting agricultural management practices amidst climate change conditions. Further, the study evaluated the anticipated economic feasibility of millet cultivation in the upland rice areas. The study identified suitable millet areas across study districts with an overall accuracy of 90.5 %. Stakeholders may improve resource allocation and capitalize on emerging possibilities in Odisha's challenging agro-climatic conditions by providing economic analysis-based decision-making assistance. • Delineated the upland rice ecosystems in the study area. • Identified millet suitable areas for the introduction of climate-smart crops. • Assessed the economic feasibility of millet cultivation in the upland rice areas.