MONITORING AGRICULTURAL LANDS IN UZBEKISTAN: LEGAL FRAMEWORK, SPATIAL ANALYSIS AND DIGITAL INNOVATIONS

Efficient monitoring of agricultural lands is a critical component of sustainable land management, ensuring optimal use of resources, prevention of degradation, and long-term food security. In Uzbekistan, where agriculture plays a central role in the national economy, the integration of legal regulations, spatial analysis, and digital innovations has become increasingly important. This study examines the existing legal framework governing agricultural land monitoring in Uzbekistan, highlighting the key provisions of national legislation, land cadastre regulations, and institutional responsibilities. The analysis emphasizes the role of governmental policies in standardizing data collection, ensuring transparency, and enforcing land-use compliance. Spatial analysis, based on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques, is identified as a powerful tool for detecting land-use changes, assessing soil conditions, and identifying risks such as salinization, erosion, and crop yield reduction. By integrating satellite imagery, UAV data, and cadastral maps, spatial analysis enables timely decision-making and precise agricultural planning. Case examples from various regions illustrate the effectiveness of these approaches in identifying underutilized lands and improving land productivity. The findings suggest that a coordinated approach—linking strong legal foundations, advanced spatial analytics, and cutting-edge digital tools—can significantly improve agricultural land management in Uzbekistan. The study recommends strengthening institutional capacities, expanding access to geospatial technologies, and fostering public-private partnerships to accelerate the adoption of digital monitoring systems.