National Geographical Journal of India

Reflections on Schaefer-Hartshorne debate: A critique

Mumtaz Khan — 2024-06-30

Academic debate in a discipline is an important sign of a healthy academic environment. It is also one of the prerequisites for the growth of a discipline. The Schaefer-Hartshorne debate on the methodology and philosophy of geography, which took place in the 1950s, is easily the most important debate in the discipline till now. The debate centred around whether geography is a unique discipline that should focus on describing individual regions or formulating theories and laws concerning the location and distribution of phenomena in geographical space. At that time, this debate divided the entire geography community of the world into two academic camps. So much so the debate became personalised and acrimonious; nonetheless, this rich and enthralling debate has shaped the nature of geographical inquiry in many ways. Though much is written about this debate, this paper focuses on the non-academic and unethical practices of followers of Fred K. Schafer that contributed to the popularity of his point of view.

Agricultural impacts due to Mohonpur rubber dam project in Dinajpur district of Bangladesh

Md. Faruk Hossain — 2024-06-30

The present paper aims to demonstrate the agricultural impacts due to Mohonpur rubber dam project in Dinajpur district of Bangladesh. This dam provides irrigation coverage for 1000 hectares of Boro rice cultivation. The study employs a mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data. It includes 135 household surveys, four key informant interviews, and three focus group discussions. The study findings revealed that agriculture experienced a favorable impact, with a 31 percent rise in yield production contributing to the enhanced agricultural production. The findings indicate positive agricultural impacts, with a notable 31 percent increase in yield production, contributing to enhanced agricultural productivity. A significant observation was that 33 percent of respondents noted changes in irrigation sources, with 88 percent utilizing dam reservoirs, thereby reducing dependence on groundwater sources. Additionally, 27 percent reported an expansion in crop land, while 78% reported increased crop production. Availability of fish population had also experienced a significant augmentation. Over the past decade, the rubber dam has significantly facilitated many farmers in producing more agricultural products while lowering their irrigation costs. The abundant flow of water has also benefited the fishermen of the area. The study identifies various agricultural impacts and highlights performance constraints. It concludes with recommendations.

From risks to resettlement: A study on development-induced displacement in the Cochin international airport project, Kerala

Neema G. Krishna — 2024-06-30

Development-induced displacement presents a global challenge, with its effects particularly severe in developing countries where resettlement policies are often insufficiently managed. This paper delves into the socio-economic and cultural consequences of displacement resulting from the Cochin International Airport project, with a focus on the resettlement process and its effectiveness. The airport project required the acquisition of 1252 acres of land, leading to the displacement of approximately 830 families and, in the process, significantly impacting their livelihoods and social networks. This paper is based on primary data, gathered by engaging with resettled individuals through a carefully designed and structured questionnaire. The paper employs the Impoverishment Risk and Reconstruction (IRR) model to identify key risks linked to displacement and also to evaluate the effectiveness of the airport project's resettlement policy. It concludes that a comprehensive approach to resettlement is crucial to alleviate the negative impacts of displacement and foster long-term stability and inclusion among re-settlers. By prioritizing these key aspects, future resettlement policies can provide stronger support to displaced communities, leading to a more equitable recovery process.

Differentials in literacy in Begusarai district, Bihar: An impediment to sustainable development

Murli Manohar — 2024-06-30

Literacy provides us the ingress to understand a written piece of information and unlatch the door for further education. This acts as a substratum to build upon more advanced skills. The census of India regards a person as literate if he is of 7 years and above and can read and write in any language with understanding. However, significant disparities in literacy levels persist across genders, regions, and social classes, posing challenges to sustainable development. This study focuses on the Begusarai district in Bihar, comprising 18 administrative blocks, to map its literacy landscape. This paper aims to map out the literacy landscape of the Begusarai district and analyze the spatio-temporal aspects of the literacy gap as well as literacy differentials based on gender (male-female) at the block level. The study further attempts to find out the urban-rural differentials in the district and tries to project the level of literacy in the future. The paper also tries to relate the importance of bridging the gap in literacy with sustainable development. The study is based on the data from the District Census Handbook of Begusarai and the census of India for the years 2001 and 2011. Different statistical techniques have been used to calculate the literacy differentials and the future projections of literacy levels in the district. Tabulation and graphical representations have been done with the help of MS Excel software. The ArcGIS10.8 software has been used for cartographical representations. The study reveals that the district is way more literate in 2011 (63.87%) than in 2001 (48%) though there is still a considerable variation in literacy at the inter-block level. The district has bridged the urban-rural gap in literacy (20.64%) at a greater pace than the gender gap (7.13%) in literacy between 2001 and 2011. Notably, a strong inverse correlation (-0.73) exists between total literacy rates and gender differentials, highlighting the district's challenges in achieving gender parity in literacy. The study underscores that disparities in literacy and emphasizes that sustainable development goals can achieved with better access to education and literacy. Efforts to bridge these gaps are crucial for fostering inclusive growth and advancing sustainable development in Begusarai district and beyond.

Utilization of Mother Child Protection Card (MCP) in Uttar Pradesh, India

Khushbu Arya — 2024-06-30

The Mother and Child Protection (MCP) card is a widely used, user-friendly, community-based tool designed to support an integrated approach to ensuring proper maternity and child care. It promotes survival and growth through family-centered, community-based interventions. This study aims to examine the utilization and distribution of the MCP card in Uttar Pradesh, using data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) from 2019 to 2021. The primary objective of the present study is to understand the factors influencing MCP card usage. To explore this, bivariate analysis was used to examine the relationships between MCP card utilization and various predictor variables. Additionally, binary logistic regression was employed to determine the overall effect of these predictors on MCP card coverage. The "svyset" command in Stata 17 was used to account for the complex survey design of NFHS-5. Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping using ArcGIS 10.8 was also conducted to visualize distribution patterns. Findings revealed that 95.67% of mothers effectively utilized their MCP cards. Significant variations in MCP card usage were observed based on participants' backgrounds. Statistical analysis indicated that MCP card utilization was significantly associated with factors such as social group (OR=0.87, CI=0.74–1.02), mothers' education (OR=1.26, CI=1.05–1.5), religion (OR=0.83, CI=0.7–0.99), and parity (OR=0.86, CI=0.071–1.002). The MCP card provides comprehensive information about maternal and child health services, including background details of both mother and child. Barriers to MCP card access and utilization in Uttar Pradesh range from cultural and social obstacles to illiteracy and lack of awareness.

Spatio-temporal dynamics of urban ecological services: A site-specific study of urban and peri-urban areas of Darjeeling Himalaya and Terai region, West Bengal, India

Shrabanti Dutta — 2024-06-30

Urban ecosystems play a pivotal role in supporting human life by providing essential ecological services. In the present study, an attempt has been made to analyze the spatio-temporal dynamics of urban ecological services in terms of demand and supply patches during the last two decades from 2004 to 2022 over the urban and peri-urban areas of Darjeeling Himalaya and Terai region, West Bengal. 4 urban centers (Darjeeling, Kalipong, Kurseong, and Mirik) of Darjeeling Himalaya and 1 urban center (Siliguri) of the Terai region have taken into account for the study. Municipal boundaries of all the regions along with 2 km buffer zones are considered as urban and peri-urban regions respectively. Results revealed that all the study regions (Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Kurseong, and Siliguri) have shown an increase in both “demand” and “supply” patches except Mirik, which has experienced a decline in “supply” patches during 2004-2022. The highest increase in demand patches has been observed for Siliguri (169%) and lowest increase for Mirik (4.9%); while highest increase in supply patches is noticed for Darjeeling (80.4%). Geographical location of the urban centers has indirectly played a significant role behind this areal extension of demand and supply patches. In a nutshell, the increase of both “demand” and “supply” patches at the cost of reduction in “others” patches, indicated an equilibrium state of urban ecological services in the study regions.

Status of urban social development of Eastern Uttar Pradesh: A geographical analysis

Ankit Kumar Gupta — 2024-06-30

Regions undergo a significant developmental process. The early developments are characterized by economic growth and its expansion, while the latter the social well-being becomes paramount. The measurement of social well-being of urban population is equally important when society is undergoing transformation. This study aims to find out social well-being in terms of demographic characteristics of the eastern region of Uttar Pradesh. According to 2011 census, Uttar Pradesh has registered lower rate of urbanization in comparison to national average. Among the four regions of Uttar Pradesh, Eastern Uttar Pradesh is least urbanized region of the state. This reflects important regional disparities. It is important to assess social well-being status of urban population of the region. This study is based on secondary source of data retrieved from Census. Pearson Correlation Coefficient is also calculated to examine relation between various indicators. The result of study shows that the level of social well-being is comparatively higher in those districts where the major urban agglomerations are located and they are also economically viable areas.

Spatial and temporal analysis of land use/land cover using remote sensing of Lucknow district, Uttar Pradesh, India

Vijay Kumar Singh Rathore — 2024-06-30

The combined forces of population and economic growth have driven the urbanization process over the past four decades, leading to substantial changes in land use and land cover (LULC) in the Lucknow district of Uttar Pradesh. This paper examines the LULC changes using geospatial techniques on a decadal basis from 1980 to 2020. Landsat imageries from 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2020 are used and categorized into five land use classes: agricultural land, built-up areas, water bodies, tree cover, and wasteland. The classification is done using supervised maximum likelihood classification algorithms, and the accuracy was satisfactory for further analysis. The classified images are then overlaid in a Geographic Information System (GIS) environment to assess decadal LULC changes and to generate LULC change matrices for the periods 1980-1990, 1990-2000, 2000-2010, and 2010-2020. The analysis of LULC statistics from each classified image reveals significant changes in all land use classes over the study period. There has been a decreasing trend in agricultural land, water bodies, and wastelands, while built-up areas and tree cover have shown an increasing trend. The built-up area class has experienced the highest positive change rate, followed by tree cover, indicating a substantial urban expansion. Conversely, agricultural land and wasteland have predominantly decreased, with the transformation of these areas largely contributing to the expansion of built-up spaces.

A comprehensive exploration of land use dynamics, NDVI trends, and stakeholder engagement for crafting sustainable green spaces

Narendra Gupta — 2024-06-30

This study analyzes three decades of urbanization, land use changes, and green space dynamics in Bhilwara, Rajasthan. Employing a comprehensive methodology blending quantitative analysis, geospatial techniques, and stakeholder engagement, the city's transformation is unveiled. Built-up areas expanded from 12 to 32 square kilometers, indicative of rapid urbanization, coupled with declines in cropland and deciduous forests. The integration of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) classification and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) analysis exposes ecological impacts, with declining NDVI values suggesting challenges to vegetative health. Stakeholder engagement proved crucial in understanding the dynamics of green space management. The study identified varying levels of involvement among authorities, local bodies, and the community, emphasizing the importance of collaborative governance in urban development and environmental conservation. The study concludes with a sustainable urban green spaces model, encompassing green infrastructure planning, diverse land use practices, sustainable maintenance, community engagement, technology integration, and biodiversity conservation. These recommendations aim to guide future urban planning efforts in Bhilwara, providing actionable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community stakeholders alike. The study acknowledges limitations, including reliance on remote sensing data, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and suggests future research directions exploring socio-economic implications and cultural significance. This research offers a comprehensive analysis of Bhilwaras’ urban transformation and provides a robust framework for enhancing urban su

Community based crop risk reduction through the adoption of climate smart agriculture practices in Haryana

Rajesh Kumar1 — 2024-06-30

Agriculture in India is highly sensitive and exposed to a number of hazards and associated loss to crops. Recent climate projections by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and other global agencies indicate an increase in extreme weather events, posing a potential risk to farming globally and particularly in developing countries like India. These risks include climate and weather-related threats, natural disasters, and the spread of pests and diseases, all of which contribute to highly variable crop yields. According to the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), rabi crops in India are expected to suffer greater losses than kharif crops as a possible impact of projected climate change. Temperature of above 18 ºC to 22 ºC during jointing and anthesis stages in December and January can trigger leaf blight in wheat in Haryana. Additionally, heavy rainfall followed by prolonged periods of bright sunshine in March and April can lead to the pre-ripening of wheat, resulting in a reduction in grain weight. High temperature and high humidity can cause a number of diseases outbreak in rice crop in the region. Fungal induced diseases including sheath blast, smut and grain discoloration have been found more in rice crop than wheat crop in Haryana. In light of changing climatic conditions, it is crucial to develop a range of physical, chemical, and biological methods for controlling crop diseases and associated risks. Integrated crop disease management practices should include the use of both chemical and bio/organic products to protect crops from diseases. It includes regular monitoring of symptoms of disease outbreak, assessment of soil nutrient composition, adoption and in-situ management of green manure in the soil, a judicious, balanced and need based use of fertilizers/ pesticides. This study focuses on developing an integrated risk assessment and management module at the community level in Haryana. It involves assessing the risks posed by extreme by extreme climatic conditions and implementing risk management measures at the community level.

Geographical analysis of rural-urban disparities in housing conditions in Haryana: A spatial perspective

Ritu Rani — 2024-06-30

Food and shelter are fundamental needs of human beings. The condition of housing in any geographical region represents the fundamental shelter needs of human beings. A robust database exists in India in the form of census, which if utilized appropriately, can reveal extensive as well as in-depth information about the housing conditions across the states. The quality of dwelling units of a society reflects the overall level of achievement of a society or a section thereof. Hence it can serve as a meaningful and valid parameter of the level of socio-economic development of a certain geographical region or a section of the population. As is the case with other amenities, there exists a wide gap in rural and urban areas in terms of housing conditions. Most comprehensive data in this regard is collected by the census of India once every ten years. Hence the present study is an attempt to conduct a rigorous spatial analysis utilizing the household-level quantitative database, so as to bring out the disparities in rural and urban areas of Haryana, before presenting the key findings employing suitable geographical tools.

Analysis of water balance and moisture regions: A study of Jaunpur district, Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh Anamika Singh — 2024-06-30

Climate plays a crucial role in shaping our physical environment, influenced significantly by geographical location and topographical factors. Key elements such as temperature, rainfall, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and winds define a region's climate. Human activities, such as agriculture, urbanization, deforestation, and industrialization, actively modify local climates. In geographical studies, the climatic water balance, including parameters like Potential Evapotranspiration (PET), Actual Evapotranspiration (AET), Water Surplus, and deficits, holds particular importance. These metrics help assess moisture availability, essential for determining irrigation schedules and understanding soil moisture levels critical for plant growth. Jaunpur, situated in a subtropical interior with a monsoon climate, experiences distinct seasonal weather variations. Analyzing these climatic factors and moisture adequacy aids in identifying suitable crops and optimal irrigation practices, crucial for agricultural planning and maintaining plant health.

An assessment of air pollution level using air quality index in Udaipur city, Rajasthan

Purnima Singh — 2024-06-30

Udaipur, a prominent tourist destination with a population of 451,000 according to the 2011 census, is designated as a non-attainment city under the National Clean Air Program due to its failure to meet air quality standards. The city is actively implementing an action plan to reduce air pollution, and this paper, based on secondary data, explores the achievements and challenges faced in this endeavor. Key strategies include integrated efforts in planning and managing public transport, waste disposal, domestic cooking, reducing road and construction dust, controlling industrial emissions, and raising public awareness. The paper highlights that pollution levels in Udaipur are highest during the winter season, lower in the summer, and lowest during the rainy season.

Impacts of solar photovoltaic systems– a case study of solar users in eight villages in Bangladesh

Mallik Akram Hossain — 2024-06-30

Being a fast-growing economy, electricity appears to be one of the key drivers for socio-economic development in Bangladesh. However, access to electricity remains an enduring challenge in the country. Only 42% of the rural households are connected with the national grid electricity in Bangladesh. Adopting solar photovoltaic (PV) systems appears as one of the plausible options to address electricity access challenges in rural areas. While positive impacts of using solar PV systems are widely discussed, detrimental impacts are yet to be well understood – especially in the context of Bangladesh. Contributing to the existing discourse, we have addressed residual challenges of using solar PVs based on our field-based surveys and discussions with users’. Treatment of solar PV systems at the end-of-life, unintentional loss of electricity and surprising behavioural changes by the users are detrimental aspects that were found in this research. These aspects are often overlooked and warn implication for the sustainability of solar PV systems in the long-term. Many of these aspects could be addressed during planning and implementation via awareness building as well as (taking appropriate measures at the end of life of solar PVs by the users.