Spatial monitoring of Chickpea Cultivation in Nandyal and Y.S.R. Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh (Rabi 2025-26)

Chickpea is a key rabi pulse crop in Andhra Pradesh, contributing to nutritional security, soil fertility through biological nitrogen fixation, and the economic stability of small and marginal farmers. In the semi-arid Rayalaseema region, particularly in Nandyal and Y.S.R. Kadapa districts, chickpea is widely cultivated under rainfed and residual soil moisture conditions. However, productivity in these districts is highly sensitive to spatial and temporal variability in rainfall, temperature, and field management practices, making consistent monitoring of crop extent and condition essential. Conventional field-based assessments are often limited in their spatial coverage and timeliness, especially across large and heterogeneous landscapes. Remote sensing and geospatial techniques offer a reliable alternative by enabling repeatable, large area monitoring of chickpea cultivation throughout the growing season. Spatial analysis of satellite-derived information can support mapping of chickpea extent, understanding of crop dynamics, and identification of variability within and between seasons. This study focuses on the spatial monitoring of chickpea cultivation in Nandyal and Y.S.R. Kadapa districts of Andhra Pradesh to generate decision-relevant information for crop management, yield assessment, and regional agricultural planning.