GIS based LRI study approach for identification of bench mark soil series and major crop suitability planning of Baisnabakhol-Hinjalachua micro-watershed of Deogarh district to mitigate climate change impact

A comprehensive GIS-based Land Resource Inventory (LRI) study was conducted for the Baisnabakhol-Hinjalachua micro-watershed in Deogarh district to evaluate soil resources and crop suitability for sustainable land use planning under changing climatic conditions. The study involved a detailed soil survey of 800 ha, encompassing 20 soil profiles and 70 grid samples, which were analysed for physical, chemical, and nutrient characteristics. Seven soil series comprising 15 mapping units were identified, with the Reamal-V series occupying the largest area. Crop suitability assessments using FAO and ICAR-NBSS&LUP guidelines revealed that paddy, maize, and blackgram were moderately suitable across nearly half the area. Additionally, three benchmark soil phases were delineated based on arability, crop diversification potential, and biophysical attributes. The integration of GIS with LRI proved effective in generating critical information for crop planning and natural resource management, contributing to adaptive strategies for climate change mitigation.