Consequence of less water availability on farming over three decades: A Case Study of Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, India

This research delves into the relationship between water availability and crop yield. Availability of water for irrigation can been classified in to two parts surface water or ground water (Blue Water) and precipitated water (Green Water). Using data spanning three decades, we observed significant trends in crop production and cultivation influenced by less (Green) water availability and tells that farmers are changing the cropping pattern what they grow based on which water is available easily or cost effectively or low water footprint value. Notably, crops with high water footprint value, such as Barley and Sugarcane, have seen a decline, whereas crops requiring low water footprint value, like Potato and Rice, have shown an uptick. Employing advanced statistical methods, the Karl Pearson Correlation matrix, the study identifies distinct inverse relationships between crop groups; revealing differential water consumption metrics. Notably, crops groups that usually need a lot of water (blue and green or high water footprint value) are not growing as well anymore. On the other hand, types of crops that can survive with less water (blue or low water footprint value) are becoming more popular. This shows that farmers are growing drought-resistant crop varieties that is not because of water conservation, because of less water availability. This narrative underscores the urgent need for the adoption of water-efficient techniques and crop choices while highlighting the imperative of addressing the intricate interplay between water resources, and agricultural practices.