FACTORS AFFECTING LAND USE PATTERNS OVERTIME IN KATHUA DISTRICT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR INDIA

Land and water are essential natural resources critical for sustaining human life, with their effective management being vital for food security and the rural economy.In India, where agriculture significantly outweighs manufacturing, the role of land is particularly paramount.Land use change, a complex and dynamic process, involves the conversion of land from one use to another, influenced by factors such as age, on-farm income, net irrigated area, and expenditures related to Rabi and Kharif seasons.This study focuses on the factors affecting land use patterns over time in the Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir.Using a multi-stage sampling design, data were collected from 120 respondents across 12 villages within four strategically selected blocks.The findings reveal that constraints such as pest and disease pressures, labor shortages, inadequate irrigation facilities, and insufficient training hinder optimal crop production.Addressing these factors through targeted interventions and policies will be essential for enhancing agricultural productivity and ensuring sustainable land use in the region.Continuous monitoring of land use changes is crucial for identifying challenges and informing management strategies.