Geospatial Technology for Sericulture Development in Jharkhand: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Site suitability analysis for mulberry plantation has been carried out in Pakur and Ranchi districts of Jharkhand state, India, using Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System. The study was carried out considering the need for more silk production to fill the gap between demand and supply. Cultivable wasteland was mapped as the potential area to be taken for suitability analysis. Different parameters used for site suitability analysis were soil depth, soil texture, soil pH, soil drainage, slope, ground water availability, temperature and rainfall. Different suitability classes mapped were moderately suitable, marginally suitable and currently not suitable in both the districts. Suitability statistics were also generated for different blocks of Ranchi and Pakur districts. Identified suitable areas can be taken under mulberry plantation by the state sericulture department to meet the increasing demand of silk.