Exploring the impact of rainfall and irrigation on Rabi and Kharif crops yield: A regression analysis of Rajasthan (2000 2024)

Agriculture in Rajasthan is generally rainfed and monsoon season is very short. This paper investigates the dynamic relationship between climatic and hydrological variables—specifically rainfall and irrigation—and the yield patterns of major Rabi (Wheat and Mustard) and Kharif (Bajra and Groundnut) crops in Rajasthan over a 25-year period (2000–2024). Through the application of multiple linear regression analysis, the study quantifies the extent to which fluctuations in rainfall and irrigated area contribute to crop yield variations. The results presented underline the need for region-specific crop planning and targeted irrigation management strategies, particularly in Rajasthan’s arid and semi-arid region of agro-climatic zones. This study provides empirical evidence for enhancing agricultural resilience and optimizing resource use in the face of climate variability.