Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.110 - 123, 2024
In this article, an effort has been made to analyze sustainable livelihood development and its st... more In this article, an effort has been made to analyze sustainable livelihood development and its stances in the context of the social, environmental, and economic dimensions among the scheduled tribes (STs) in the Darjeeling Himalayan Region (DHR), West Bengal, India. This sustainable development index (SDI) with three sub-indices i.e., economic sustainability index (ESI), social sustainability index (SSI), and environmental sustainability index (NSI), are the most comprehensive ones for measuring the sustainability of the ST people living in hilly villages. For this purpose, 755 tribal households were surveyed with the help of a structured questionnaire, and field visits were conducted to assess the sustainability of the tribal livelihood at the block level in the hills of the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of West Bengal. The study reveals that the Gorubathan block of the Kalimpong district, dominated by ST population has a low SDI score with low ESI and SSI rankings, but has a moderate NSI ranking. It has a very low ranking in income level, loan facilities, occupational satisfaction, and poverty level, criminal activities, poor education, health status, housing conditions, and poor sanitation facilities. The remaining blocks of the study area are found to be moderately sustainable; the tribal people mainly suffer deprivation in socio-economic and environmental attributes. However, the SDI identifies not only the block-level disparity of tribes for development but also the different SDI scores of tribal communities. These enable us to enhance and propose recommendations regarding the way to proceed with sustainable development and betterment of the quality of life. It can function not only by improving awareness among the tribes but also as an educational, social, and cultural programme in order to promote planners, managers, and other development practitioners to adopt a holistic perspective.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.96 - 109 , 2024
West Bengal, being a microcosm of broader Indian society, reflects a complex, intertwined, and in... more West Bengal, being a microcosm of broader Indian society, reflects a complex, intertwined, and inseparable web of social relations in terms of gender identities, class, and tribe-caste composition. Many efforts have been taken both by the State Government as well as Government of India for public provisioning in education but, the legacy of socio-spatial inequality and intense deprivation in achieving meaningful access to education still make hindrances in many areas. This empirical study has been conducted through an extensive cohort-specific (students of class VIII to XII within the age bracket of 13 to18 years) field survey in Dhekia Gram Panchayat of Saltora C.D. Block in Bankura District, West Bengal, India. Significant micro-spatial differences in the mean academic involvement of students have been found in this study. At the Gram Panchayat level, boy students have higher academic involvement than girl students but, at the Mouza level, changes in this typical pattern are observed in some pockets. General caste students have the highest mean academic involvement followed by other castes, scheduled tribes, and scheduled caste students for both boys and girls. Space-specific, need-specific, and community-specific development approach is needed to diminish the inequality in the education of the study area.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.87 - 95, 2023
Household amenities play a crucial role in determining individuals' and families' quality of life... more Household amenities play a crucial role in determining individuals' and families' quality of life and well-being. The paper explores the distribution of housing amenities in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, focusing on rural and urban areas, using data from the 2011 Census. It assesses the availability of critical amenities such as roofing materials, dwelling rooms, drinking water sources, lighting, toilet facilities, kitchen amenities, cooking fuels, and household assets. The study employs a composite index to classify districts based on housing amenity availability. The findings reveal disparities in housing conditions across the region. Rural areas face challenges related to the material of roofs, the number of dwelling rooms, and access to clean drinking water and electricity. Urban areas generally fare better but still exhibit variations in access to amenities like sanitation facilities and cooking fuels. The study also examines correlations among these housing amenities, highlighting relationships between asset availability and toilet facilities. The paper underscores the significance of housing amenities as they impact residents' overall well-being and quality of life. It identifies factors contributing to subpar housing conditions in Garhwal, including geographic challenges, limited resources, socio-economic factors, natural disasters, and insufficient government attention. The suggestions emphasize the importance of water supply, rainwater harvesting, electricity availability, sanitation and waste management, road and internet connectivity, affordable housing, healthcare, education, recreational spaces, and safety measures. Addressing these challenges and implementing the suggested measures can improve housing amenities, thereby enhancing the living conditions and quality of life for the residents of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.81 - 86 , 2023
India has been known as a “land of crafts and craftsman”. Its rich and diverse culture includes ... more India has been known as a “land of crafts and craftsman”. Its rich and diverse culture includes huge numbers of art forms. The Indian artisans from the ancient times were well known for their unique skill and craftsmanship (Chattopadhyay, K., 1975) Handicrafts or traditional art (locally known as lokshilpo) carry the legacy of cultural heritage for any country. In an agriculture-based society like India, handicrafts not only important in the realm of social and cultural point of view but also it is very significant in rural economic well-being. Throughout human history, craftsmanship has been an important practice. Because it may transcend typical obstacles to communication, craftsmanship is more unified and pervasive in human connections than language. India has a huge diversifying list of crafts like its cultural multiplicity. Terracotta is one of them, which is very popular from the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Terracotta means baked earth, the word coming from the Latin word 'terra caca'. It means any kind of fired clay. It is clay-based unglazed ceramic made from fairly coarse, porous clay that when fired assumes a colour ranging from dull ochre to red and usually is left unglazed. In earlier times, the term "terracotta" was often used to refer to articles like figurines, vessels, and other items created on a wheel from the same materials as "earthware." The phrase was chosen based more on the kind of object than on the material or shaping method. The present study deals with the Panchmura Terracotta handicraft, which is located in the Bankura district of West Bengal. The study explores the historical perspectives, socio-economic profile, and as well as indigenous knowledge of the artisans.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.76 - 80, 2023
Santals are the third largest tribe in India after the Gond and Bhil tribes (Ghosh, 1994). The to... more Santals are the third largest tribe in India after the Gond and Bhil tribes (Ghosh, 1994). The total population of the Santals in India was 7409000 (Census of India, 2011). The Santals mainly live in the Raj Mahal Hills and the Chhotanagpur Plateau and densely forested areas. According to the Census of India, 2011, their population is largest in Jharkhand, and they are also settled in West Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar, Assam as well. In West Bengal, they are mainly settled in Purulia, West Midnapore, Bankura, and Birbhum districts (Bodding, 2013). The Santals are the major tribal community in Birbhum district. The Santals speak a language of their own. Linguistically, it belongs to the Munda family of languages. The Munda language is the sub-family language of the Austro-Asiatic sub-family (Culshaw, 1949). Their economy is based on agriculture. However, collecting food from forests, hunting, and fishing are also important sources of their living. In Birbhum district the Santals are not only associated with agriculture, fishing, hunting, and collecting forest resources, they are also doing jobs like craftsmen, daily labourers at the construction sites, household helpers and caretakers, and driving public vehicles to earn their living. The present paper highlights the pattern of the expenditure of the households of the Santals on food items and non-food items in Illambazar, Labpur-I, and Sarpalehana-Albandha gram panchayats of Bolpur Sub-Division.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.70 - 75 , 2023
The human population is the focal point of geographical studies. The socio-economic development ... more The human population is the focal point of geographical studies. The socio-economic development of any country is determined by its population. Human beings play a dual role in terms of resources. On one hand, humans are considered resources themselves due to their intellectual power and numerical strength, while on the other hand, they also serve as producers and consumers of natural resources. Hence, the population size, its density, and qualitative features are the core aspects of population geography. This paper aims to examine the spatial pattern of population distribution and density in Basti District, India. Additionally, it seeks to identify the trend and pattern of population growth in Basti district since the beginning of the 20th century (1901-2011). The study is based on secondary data, collected from the National Population Census of India, the District Statistical book, Primary Census Abstract. To fulfill aforesaid objectives, the percentage of population share, population density, and population concentration has been calculated at the block level. The study reveals that population concentration exists in specific pockets within the study areas primarily around block headquarters. The central part of the district is more populated than the western and northern parts of the district.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.63 - 69 , 2023
The ageing population is significantly vulnerable to communicable diseases compared to the young... more The ageing population is significantly vulnerable to communicable diseases compared to the young population. The illnesses are more frequent in adults over the age of 60 with respect to communicable diseases. This study is focused on the spatial and seasonal variation of communicable diseases among the ageing population. This is a cross-sectional study. Based on the stratified random sampling, 510 aging households were surveyed. The chronological age 60 and above population are selected for this study. Moran'I and LISA significance map are used to identify the spatial pattern of distribution of communicable diseases among the ageing population. The elderly are more vulnerable to whooping cough (22.16 percent), fever (13.92 percent), and diarrhoea (11.18 percent). Leprosy has the lowest prevalence rate (1.18 percent), followed by tuberculosis (1.96 percent) and hepatitis (3.92 percent). The communicable diseases are very unevenly distributed in the district. It indicates that instances of Malaria (Moran's I is 0.0065), Tuberculosis (Moran's I -0.03), skin disease, and Hepatitis (Moran's I 0.059) are distributed randomly throughout the district. Dengue (Moran's I -0.18) and diarrhoea (Moran's I -0.17) are clustered. Leprosy has a Moran's I value of -0.42, indicating a dispersed distribution throughout the district. Communicable diseases are found in the monsoon season. The prevalence rate varies greatly across spatially depending on the socioeconomic condition of the elderly population.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.51 - 62 , 2024
Pottery craft is a highly labour-centric industry, and in the present-day context, it is becomin... more Pottery craft is a highly labour-centric industry, and in the present-day context, it is becoming more competitive. Proper manpower management in this cottage sector can save time and money considerably. This article highlighted how to measure the efficacy of selected artisans among the Kumbhakar community in terracotta projects of Panchmura village and how to measure it accurately. This article introduced an innovative technique (called as hybrid method) to measure, test, and compare manpower efficiency, with other popular and trusted methods which have become a breakthrough in the age-old terracotta (pottery) industry. Panchmura village of Bankura is famous for its majestic terracotta work. Extensive fieldwork is done in said craft village. After collecting and analyzing the database it was found that the hybrid method is most suitable to measure manpower efficacy in the Panchmura craft village.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.41 - 50 , 2024
The rising economies gaining supremacy over global avenues concerning resource allocation have l... more The rising economies gaining supremacy over global avenues concerning resource allocation have largely shifted their axial orientation from the established urbanized and 'developed' economies of the West towards a diversified East with the geography imprinted with marked difference across every possible aspect - economic, social, ethnic, linguistic or political showcasing the delicacy and abstruse regional interplay characterizing its geopolitical standpoints, bringing numerous security challenges for stakeholders in the region. Geopolitical tensions fuel geoeconomic disruptions, politicizing market access, and strategic contention. The urgency of employment generation and workforce accommodation for a large population base compelling economic liberalization and free market access has accelerated the rate of urbanization and urban overhead generation within Asian economies. The inter-regional conflicts and domestic diplomacy across the globe reveal wider interconnections between seemingly isolated events, be it, Pakistan's and China's collaboration over the development of economic corridors, OPEC's strategies in oil trade, or the UK's election of an ethnically diverse government. Temporal analysis of global socio-economic developments post 1990 when most economies relinquished the policy of isolationism to the policies of 'hard deterrence' (military insurgency in Myanmar, communal wars in Iraq, political conflicts in Ukraine), points towards a mutated scenario, where urban resource allocation in Asia are intensely factored by global representation, thereby necessitating better regional integration on lines of shared history to avoid a resurgence of domestic shocks as in 90s East Asia. Urban spree characterizing Asian societies stands no different than traditional 'core-periphery' models with present modifications still having neo-colonial conjunctions. Competitive sub-regional aspirations garner apprehensions concerning megalomaniac tyranny, complicating and crumpling prospective pan-Asian identity at times when continual cross migration and unidirectional movements of skilled Asian diaspora necessitates the building of fraternal resilience aimed towards the sustenance of unpredictive geopolitical events.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.31 - 40 , 2024
In India, nearly 64 percent of the total population is dependent on farming. So agriculture is u... more In India, nearly 64 percent of the total population is dependent on farming. So agriculture is undoubtedly one of the most important economic activities of man. It not only provides food for a significant portion of the world's population but also serves as a source of various industrial raw materials. The distribution of agricultural development is unequal in the country. So the measurement of regional disparities is important to know the status of agricultural development in any area. Jaunpur district is located in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, within the Middle Ganga Plain, covering a total area of 4038 square kilometers The objectives of the study are to analyze the spatial pattern of agriculture facilities and characteristics and to measure the inter-block development and their correlation between level of agricultural development and floodplain zones in Jaunpur District. For measuring the level of agricultural development Z score method has been applied, taking into account a total of 27 variables related to agricultural development such as mechanization, irrigation sources, productivity, agricultural input, and others. In the study area 19.32 percent area measured as a higher level, 51.57 percent is Moderate agricultural development, and 29.11 percent of the total area falls in the low level of agricultural development.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.24 - 30 , 2024
One of the most important aspects of regional as well as economic geography is determining the lo... more One of the most important aspects of regional as well as economic geography is determining the location of industries, which is the oldest subject of economic geography. In the past, many geographers and economists have given various theoretical insights about the location of industries: among them Hoover, Rawstron, Weber, Christaller, Losch, and Isard are popular. Hoover, Weber, Rawstron, and Fitter emphasized the least cost factor in the industrial location, on the other hand, Losch and Isard talked about profit maximization and the principle of substitution. In the 1990s, with Krugman's New Economic Geography, the concept of the location of industry was redefined. He emphasized the importance of spatial aspects of the economy and transportation for industrial locations. He also discussed the urban agglomeration for industrial locations on a small scale based on Marshallian external economies. Many researchers have used the concept of this theory to explain the location of any industry. Among different manufacturing industries food processing industry is one of the most important and distinctive industries in West Bengal, and the food park is an extended part of this industry. Our purpose in this paper is to discuss the applicability of Krugman's theory for the location of food parks with special reference to Sankrail food park. In this paper, we used the mixed method, which includes both qualitative and quantitative techniques. It is observed that pure external economies, a good transportation system, large market size, spatial agglomeration, and good political economy contributed to the formation of this food park in the semi-urban part of Sankrail. However, all factors (technology spillover, knowledge spillover) of Krugman's theory are not fully applicable in the case of this Food Park.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.17 - 23 , 2024
Geotourism has grown rapidly in developed nations, but sustainability is a challenge in developi... more Geotourism has grown rapidly in developed nations, but sustainability is a challenge in developing nations. Mama Bhagne Pahar, a granite hill in Birbhum District, holds scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and economic significance. This paper uses a combined SWOT-AHP method to evaluate its geotourism potential. Wedgeages prioritizes SWOT considerations for geotourism, with opportunities ranking highest at 55.3%, followed by threats, weaknesses, and strengths. The data shows that O2, with a potential of 41.8%, has the highest weight among opportunities for geotourism, indicating its exceptional potential with proper management
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.11 - 16 , 2024
The Earth's environment has experienced substantial transformations due to human activities, wit... more The Earth's environment has experienced substantial transformations due to human activities, with a remarkable acceleration observed after 1950. The sub-Himalayan Terai Region has not been immune to such anthropogenic interventions, and the Mahananda River, in particular, faces significant threats due to these activities. To comprehend the consequences of constructing a barrage on the river's natural state, a comprehensive morphological assessment was conducted, comparing the river's condition before and after the construction of the Barrage. Furthermore, the morphological characteristics both upstream and downstream of the Barrage structure were analyzed. The research focused on various morphological aspects, such as planform configuration, channel width, braiding index, and riverbed elevation, which were affected by these human-induced changes. To investigate temporal changes, topographical maps, and satellite imagery from different years (1931, 1975, 1990, 2005, and 2022) were retrieved and processed using Arc GIS 10.2 software. This empirical study provides valuable insights into the influence of the Barrage on the fluvial landscape and stream geomorphology of the Mahananda River, shedding light on its ecological implications. The findings from this study contribute to a scholarly understanding of the significant alterations to the river's physical features and shape resulting from the presence of the Barrage. By shedding light on the human impacts on this vital river system, this research is a crucial step towards effective and sustainable river management practices in the region.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.1 - 10 , 2024
The city of Bijapur is located in the dry Deccan region of India. Yet, it ensured a sustainable w... more The city of Bijapur is located in the dry Deccan region of India. Yet, it ensured a sustainable water supply to its citizens for agricultural or domestic use during the 14th to 18th centuries under the Bahmani and Adil-Shahi dynasties. Two unique urban water systems, the Khair-e-Jari, and Muhammed Nada, accompanied by several cisterns, made it possible to populate and develop a city in the semi-arid region of India. Watershed management techniques were applied to ensure the sustainability of these water systems. Though in ruins, it provides water for irrigation and domestic use even today. Extensive ground surveys were conducted to record every segment using a mobile-based mapping application and handheld navigation device. Satellite data, topographical maps, historical maps, and literature reviews aided in linking up all segments to prepare the first complete map of the Khair-e-Jari and Muhammed Nada water systems. Bijapur, a heritage city of Karnataka State, has undergone unplanned organic urban growth coupled with a lack of awareness, understanding, conservation practices, and appropriate implementation of existing policies. This has resulted in an unsustainable geophysical alteration of the fragile hydraulic landscape affecting these unique water systems. The objective of this article is to bring to light the urban water heritage of Bijapur through mapping and unraveling its utility, construction techniques, and the profound knowledge of watershed management that underpinned their success while aiming to ignite a flame of awareness towards the conservation of this invaluable water heritage. This paper delves into the intricate details of the historic urban water systems of Bijapur. It discusses the challenges in conserving them as national heritage, emphasizing the need for urgent action to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Autumn Issue: 2023:14(3) pp.108 - 114, 2023
Bihar is India's second lowest urbanized state after Himachal Pradesh, as per the 2011 Census. Pa... more Bihar is India's second lowest urbanized state after Himachal Pradesh, as per the 2011 Census. Patna division is the most urbanized administrative division of Bihar, with a level of urbanization of 22.66 percent. But both Bihar and Patna divisions are far behind the national level of urbanization at 31.16 percent. Although there are many rural settlements in Bihar and Patna division satisfy the first two criteria of the definition of urban settlement given by the Census of India but being an agricultural prime state, these rural settlements do not meet the last criteria of 75 percent male working population in non-agricultural activity for being an urban settlement. They are - potential urban centers that may include urban settlements or mini-towns. This paper analyses the trends and patterns of urbanization in the Patna Division. It also attempts to analyze the pattern of potential urbanization in the Patna Division. The article makes use of the Census of India data. It considers rural settlements with 10,000 and more population of Patna Division as potential urban nodes.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.102 - 107, 2023
The present study examines the utilization of remote sensing methodologies and Geographic Informa... more The present study examines the utilization of remote sensing methodologies and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology in examining river channels, with a specific emphasis on the downstream area of the Mecsek Mountains in Hungary. Comprehending alterations in river channels is of paramount importance in the advancement of environmentally conscious and sustainable fluvial endeavours, concurrently mitigating expenses associated with maintenance. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide a robust and effective means of obtaining and analysing water resource data, encompassing the delineation of water catchment areas. The present study utilises overlay techniques and remote sensing interpretation to collect various parameters, including land use, landforms, soil texture, and rock type maps, with the aim of developing a water catchment model. The findings suggest that water catchment areas exhibit a range of potential levels, spanning from excellent to very poor. The aforementioned findings possess noteworthy implications for formulating water resources management policies and emphasize the invaluable contribution of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in analyzing river catchments. In general, this study emphasizes the efficacy of remote sensing and GIS techniques in promoting the progress of environmental management practices in river systems.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.90 - 101 , 2023
The article examines the extent to which Siliguri City of North Bengal is applicable on the line... more The article examines the extent to which Siliguri City of North Bengal is applicable on the line of Jefferson's “Primate City Law”. Some spatial, geostrategic, and other situational factors have been selected and analyzed to show how Siliguri has gradually become the most populous city as well as the prime city of the North Bengal region. The study also tried to measure the hierarchy of towns, trends of urban growth, and changes in the demographic pattern of the towns of North Bengal by applying Zipf's 'Law of Rank-Size distribution'. Therefore, various techniques such as the primacy index, primacy factors, and expected town size after Zipf have been applied to show how the primacy of Siliguri City has been gradually increasing with respect to the region of North Bengal and its surroundings.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.83 - 89 , 2023
Agriculture is the prime livelihood sector in the country, where about 70 percent of the populat... more Agriculture is the prime livelihood sector in the country, where about 70 percent of the population directly or indirectly depends on agricultural activities. It plays an important role in the socio-economic development of the country. Mirzapur is one of the backward districts in the middle Gangetic plain region of Uttar Pradesh, where agriculture is still the primary source of livelihood for the population. Cropping pattern is a dynamic concept that refers to crop distribution over time. Different types of crops, like paddy (rice), wheat, gram, jowar, bajra, maize, sugarcane, vegetables, etc., are produced in the study area. After introducing the Green Revolution, India modified the cropping pattern by using an effective irrigation system and correct use of fertilizers to boost the crops and its impact on cropping patterns in the study area; farmers left the traditional cropping pattern and adopted the modern cropping pattern system. The present study aims to understand the dynamics of agricultural development and cropping patterns in the study area by field survey and using secondary data sources collected from various government publications. The area under different crops of the study area has been analyzed and interpreted through tables and maps.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.71 - 82 , 2023
The Silabati River Basin's morphometric analysis was conducted through the use of RS and GIS met... more The Silabati River Basin's morphometric analysis was conducted through the use of RS and GIS methodologies. The drainage basin and network were delineated through SRTM DEM. In this study, the geomorphic features are primarily separated into three major groups, including linear elements, areal elements, and relief elements. The entire watershed is 4182.75 km2, while the perimeter is 377.31 km. The basin has a high elongation ratio of 0.55, indicating a highly elongated shape. The river network is classified as a 6th-order stream. The overall length of the river is 3045.69 km. In contrast, the primary channel measurement is 188.40 km for the entire Silabati river system. The average bifurcation ratio (Rb) is 4.264, even though the weighted mean bifurcation ratio has been estimated to be 4.663. The stream density of this river system is 0.73 km/km2, whereas the stream frequency is 0.33 number/km2. The maximum relief is 227 meters, and the minimum relief is 0 meters. The trend of the basin's hypsometric curve is similar to an "s" shape, and the hypsometric integral is 0.36, suggesting the basin belongs to the mature stage. These observations can contribute to a better understanding of the multiple morphometric characteristics at work, improving our spatial comprehension for rational decision-making to design suitable management strategies throughout the whole watershed.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.110 - 123, 2024
In this article, an effort has been made to analyze sustainable livelihood development and its st... more In this article, an effort has been made to analyze sustainable livelihood development and its stances in the context of the social, environmental, and economic dimensions among the scheduled tribes (STs) in the Darjeeling Himalayan Region (DHR), West Bengal, India. This sustainable development index (SDI) with three sub-indices i.e., economic sustainability index (ESI), social sustainability index (SSI), and environmental sustainability index (NSI), are the most comprehensive ones for measuring the sustainability of the ST people living in hilly villages. For this purpose, 755 tribal households were surveyed with the help of a structured questionnaire, and field visits were conducted to assess the sustainability of the tribal livelihood at the block level in the hills of the Darjeeling and Kalimpong districts of West Bengal. The study reveals that the Gorubathan block of the Kalimpong district, dominated by ST population has a low SDI score with low ESI and SSI rankings, but has a moderate NSI ranking. It has a very low ranking in income level, loan facilities, occupational satisfaction, and poverty level, criminal activities, poor education, health status, housing conditions, and poor sanitation facilities. The remaining blocks of the study area are found to be moderately sustainable; the tribal people mainly suffer deprivation in socio-economic and environmental attributes. However, the SDI identifies not only the block-level disparity of tribes for development but also the different SDI scores of tribal communities. These enable us to enhance and propose recommendations regarding the way to proceed with sustainable development and betterment of the quality of life. It can function not only by improving awareness among the tribes but also as an educational, social, and cultural programme in order to promote planners, managers, and other development practitioners to adopt a holistic perspective.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.96 - 109 , 2024
West Bengal, being a microcosm of broader Indian society, reflects a complex, intertwined, and in... more West Bengal, being a microcosm of broader Indian society, reflects a complex, intertwined, and inseparable web of social relations in terms of gender identities, class, and tribe-caste composition. Many efforts have been taken both by the State Government as well as Government of India for public provisioning in education but, the legacy of socio-spatial inequality and intense deprivation in achieving meaningful access to education still make hindrances in many areas. This empirical study has been conducted through an extensive cohort-specific (students of class VIII to XII within the age bracket of 13 to18 years) field survey in Dhekia Gram Panchayat of Saltora C.D. Block in Bankura District, West Bengal, India. Significant micro-spatial differences in the mean academic involvement of students have been found in this study. At the Gram Panchayat level, boy students have higher academic involvement than girl students but, at the Mouza level, changes in this typical pattern are observed in some pockets. General caste students have the highest mean academic involvement followed by other castes, scheduled tribes, and scheduled caste students for both boys and girls. Space-specific, need-specific, and community-specific development approach is needed to diminish the inequality in the education of the study area.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.87 - 95, 2023
Household amenities play a crucial role in determining individuals' and families' quality of life... more Household amenities play a crucial role in determining individuals' and families' quality of life and well-being. The paper explores the distribution of housing amenities in the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, focusing on rural and urban areas, using data from the 2011 Census. It assesses the availability of critical amenities such as roofing materials, dwelling rooms, drinking water sources, lighting, toilet facilities, kitchen amenities, cooking fuels, and household assets. The study employs a composite index to classify districts based on housing amenity availability. The findings reveal disparities in housing conditions across the region. Rural areas face challenges related to the material of roofs, the number of dwelling rooms, and access to clean drinking water and electricity. Urban areas generally fare better but still exhibit variations in access to amenities like sanitation facilities and cooking fuels. The study also examines correlations among these housing amenities, highlighting relationships between asset availability and toilet facilities. The paper underscores the significance of housing amenities as they impact residents' overall well-being and quality of life. It identifies factors contributing to subpar housing conditions in Garhwal, including geographic challenges, limited resources, socio-economic factors, natural disasters, and insufficient government attention. The suggestions emphasize the importance of water supply, rainwater harvesting, electricity availability, sanitation and waste management, road and internet connectivity, affordable housing, healthcare, education, recreational spaces, and safety measures. Addressing these challenges and implementing the suggested measures can improve housing amenities, thereby enhancing the living conditions and quality of life for the residents of the Garhwal region of Uttarakhand.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.81 - 86 , 2023
India has been known as a “land of crafts and craftsman”. Its rich and diverse culture includes ... more India has been known as a “land of crafts and craftsman”. Its rich and diverse culture includes huge numbers of art forms. The Indian artisans from the ancient times were well known for their unique skill and craftsmanship (Chattopadhyay, K., 1975) Handicrafts or traditional art (locally known as lokshilpo) carry the legacy of cultural heritage for any country. In an agriculture-based society like India, handicrafts not only important in the realm of social and cultural point of view but also it is very significant in rural economic well-being. Throughout human history, craftsmanship has been an important practice. Because it may transcend typical obstacles to communication, craftsmanship is more unified and pervasive in human connections than language. India has a huge diversifying list of crafts like its cultural multiplicity. Terracotta is one of them, which is very popular from the ancient Indus Valley civilization. Terracotta means baked earth, the word coming from the Latin word 'terra caca'. It means any kind of fired clay. It is clay-based unglazed ceramic made from fairly coarse, porous clay that when fired assumes a colour ranging from dull ochre to red and usually is left unglazed. In earlier times, the term "terracotta" was often used to refer to articles like figurines, vessels, and other items created on a wheel from the same materials as "earthware." The phrase was chosen based more on the kind of object than on the material or shaping method. The present study deals with the Panchmura Terracotta handicraft, which is located in the Bankura district of West Bengal. The study explores the historical perspectives, socio-economic profile, and as well as indigenous knowledge of the artisans.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.76 - 80, 2023
Santals are the third largest tribe in India after the Gond and Bhil tribes (Ghosh, 1994). The to... more Santals are the third largest tribe in India after the Gond and Bhil tribes (Ghosh, 1994). The total population of the Santals in India was 7409000 (Census of India, 2011). The Santals mainly live in the Raj Mahal Hills and the Chhotanagpur Plateau and densely forested areas. According to the Census of India, 2011, their population is largest in Jharkhand, and they are also settled in West Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar, Assam as well. In West Bengal, they are mainly settled in Purulia, West Midnapore, Bankura, and Birbhum districts (Bodding, 2013). The Santals are the major tribal community in Birbhum district. The Santals speak a language of their own. Linguistically, it belongs to the Munda family of languages. The Munda language is the sub-family language of the Austro-Asiatic sub-family (Culshaw, 1949). Their economy is based on agriculture. However, collecting food from forests, hunting, and fishing are also important sources of their living. In Birbhum district the Santals are not only associated with agriculture, fishing, hunting, and collecting forest resources, they are also doing jobs like craftsmen, daily labourers at the construction sites, household helpers and caretakers, and driving public vehicles to earn their living. The present paper highlights the pattern of the expenditure of the households of the Santals on food items and non-food items in Illambazar, Labpur-I, and Sarpalehana-Albandha gram panchayats of Bolpur Sub-Division.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.70 - 75 , 2023
The human population is the focal point of geographical studies. The socio-economic development ... more The human population is the focal point of geographical studies. The socio-economic development of any country is determined by its population. Human beings play a dual role in terms of resources. On one hand, humans are considered resources themselves due to their intellectual power and numerical strength, while on the other hand, they also serve as producers and consumers of natural resources. Hence, the population size, its density, and qualitative features are the core aspects of population geography. This paper aims to examine the spatial pattern of population distribution and density in Basti District, India. Additionally, it seeks to identify the trend and pattern of population growth in Basti district since the beginning of the 20th century (1901-2011). The study is based on secondary data, collected from the National Population Census of India, the District Statistical book, Primary Census Abstract. To fulfill aforesaid objectives, the percentage of population share, population density, and population concentration has been calculated at the block level. The study reveals that population concentration exists in specific pockets within the study areas primarily around block headquarters. The central part of the district is more populated than the western and northern parts of the district.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.63 - 69 , 2023
The ageing population is significantly vulnerable to communicable diseases compared to the young... more The ageing population is significantly vulnerable to communicable diseases compared to the young population. The illnesses are more frequent in adults over the age of 60 with respect to communicable diseases. This study is focused on the spatial and seasonal variation of communicable diseases among the ageing population. This is a cross-sectional study. Based on the stratified random sampling, 510 aging households were surveyed. The chronological age 60 and above population are selected for this study. Moran'I and LISA significance map are used to identify the spatial pattern of distribution of communicable diseases among the ageing population. The elderly are more vulnerable to whooping cough (22.16 percent), fever (13.92 percent), and diarrhoea (11.18 percent). Leprosy has the lowest prevalence rate (1.18 percent), followed by tuberculosis (1.96 percent) and hepatitis (3.92 percent). The communicable diseases are very unevenly distributed in the district. It indicates that instances of Malaria (Moran's I is 0.0065), Tuberculosis (Moran's I -0.03), skin disease, and Hepatitis (Moran's I 0.059) are distributed randomly throughout the district. Dengue (Moran's I -0.18) and diarrhoea (Moran's I -0.17) are clustered. Leprosy has a Moran's I value of -0.42, indicating a dispersed distribution throughout the district. Communicable diseases are found in the monsoon season. The prevalence rate varies greatly across spatially depending on the socioeconomic condition of the elderly population.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.51 - 62 , 2024
Pottery craft is a highly labour-centric industry, and in the present-day context, it is becomin... more Pottery craft is a highly labour-centric industry, and in the present-day context, it is becoming more competitive. Proper manpower management in this cottage sector can save time and money considerably. This article highlighted how to measure the efficacy of selected artisans among the Kumbhakar community in terracotta projects of Panchmura village and how to measure it accurately. This article introduced an innovative technique (called as hybrid method) to measure, test, and compare manpower efficiency, with other popular and trusted methods which have become a breakthrough in the age-old terracotta (pottery) industry. Panchmura village of Bankura is famous for its majestic terracotta work. Extensive fieldwork is done in said craft village. After collecting and analyzing the database it was found that the hybrid method is most suitable to measure manpower efficacy in the Panchmura craft village.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.41 - 50 , 2024
The rising economies gaining supremacy over global avenues concerning resource allocation have l... more The rising economies gaining supremacy over global avenues concerning resource allocation have largely shifted their axial orientation from the established urbanized and 'developed' economies of the West towards a diversified East with the geography imprinted with marked difference across every possible aspect - economic, social, ethnic, linguistic or political showcasing the delicacy and abstruse regional interplay characterizing its geopolitical standpoints, bringing numerous security challenges for stakeholders in the region. Geopolitical tensions fuel geoeconomic disruptions, politicizing market access, and strategic contention. The urgency of employment generation and workforce accommodation for a large population base compelling economic liberalization and free market access has accelerated the rate of urbanization and urban overhead generation within Asian economies. The inter-regional conflicts and domestic diplomacy across the globe reveal wider interconnections between seemingly isolated events, be it, Pakistan's and China's collaboration over the development of economic corridors, OPEC's strategies in oil trade, or the UK's election of an ethnically diverse government. Temporal analysis of global socio-economic developments post 1990 when most economies relinquished the policy of isolationism to the policies of 'hard deterrence' (military insurgency in Myanmar, communal wars in Iraq, political conflicts in Ukraine), points towards a mutated scenario, where urban resource allocation in Asia are intensely factored by global representation, thereby necessitating better regional integration on lines of shared history to avoid a resurgence of domestic shocks as in 90s East Asia. Urban spree characterizing Asian societies stands no different than traditional 'core-periphery' models with present modifications still having neo-colonial conjunctions. Competitive sub-regional aspirations garner apprehensions concerning megalomaniac tyranny, complicating and crumpling prospective pan-Asian identity at times when continual cross migration and unidirectional movements of skilled Asian diaspora necessitates the building of fraternal resilience aimed towards the sustenance of unpredictive geopolitical events.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.31 - 40 , 2024
In India, nearly 64 percent of the total population is dependent on farming. So agriculture is u... more In India, nearly 64 percent of the total population is dependent on farming. So agriculture is undoubtedly one of the most important economic activities of man. It not only provides food for a significant portion of the world's population but also serves as a source of various industrial raw materials. The distribution of agricultural development is unequal in the country. So the measurement of regional disparities is important to know the status of agricultural development in any area. Jaunpur district is located in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, within the Middle Ganga Plain, covering a total area of 4038 square kilometers The objectives of the study are to analyze the spatial pattern of agriculture facilities and characteristics and to measure the inter-block development and their correlation between level of agricultural development and floodplain zones in Jaunpur District. For measuring the level of agricultural development Z score method has been applied, taking into account a total of 27 variables related to agricultural development such as mechanization, irrigation sources, productivity, agricultural input, and others. In the study area 19.32 percent area measured as a higher level, 51.57 percent is Moderate agricultural development, and 29.11 percent of the total area falls in the low level of agricultural development.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.24 - 30 , 2024
One of the most important aspects of regional as well as economic geography is determining the lo... more One of the most important aspects of regional as well as economic geography is determining the location of industries, which is the oldest subject of economic geography. In the past, many geographers and economists have given various theoretical insights about the location of industries: among them Hoover, Rawstron, Weber, Christaller, Losch, and Isard are popular. Hoover, Weber, Rawstron, and Fitter emphasized the least cost factor in the industrial location, on the other hand, Losch and Isard talked about profit maximization and the principle of substitution. In the 1990s, with Krugman's New Economic Geography, the concept of the location of industry was redefined. He emphasized the importance of spatial aspects of the economy and transportation for industrial locations. He also discussed the urban agglomeration for industrial locations on a small scale based on Marshallian external economies. Many researchers have used the concept of this theory to explain the location of any industry. Among different manufacturing industries food processing industry is one of the most important and distinctive industries in West Bengal, and the food park is an extended part of this industry. Our purpose in this paper is to discuss the applicability of Krugman's theory for the location of food parks with special reference to Sankrail food park. In this paper, we used the mixed method, which includes both qualitative and quantitative techniques. It is observed that pure external economies, a good transportation system, large market size, spatial agglomeration, and good political economy contributed to the formation of this food park in the semi-urban part of Sankrail. However, all factors (technology spillover, knowledge spillover) of Krugman's theory are not fully applicable in the case of this Food Park.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.17 - 23 , 2024
Geotourism has grown rapidly in developed nations, but sustainability is a challenge in developi... more Geotourism has grown rapidly in developed nations, but sustainability is a challenge in developing nations. Mama Bhagne Pahar, a granite hill in Birbhum District, holds scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and economic significance. This paper uses a combined SWOT-AHP method to evaluate its geotourism potential. Wedgeages prioritizes SWOT considerations for geotourism, with opportunities ranking highest at 55.3%, followed by threats, weaknesses, and strengths. The data shows that O2, with a potential of 41.8%, has the highest weight among opportunities for geotourism, indicating its exceptional potential with proper management
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.11 - 16 , 2024
The Earth's environment has experienced substantial transformations due to human activities, wit... more The Earth's environment has experienced substantial transformations due to human activities, with a remarkable acceleration observed after 1950. The sub-Himalayan Terai Region has not been immune to such anthropogenic interventions, and the Mahananda River, in particular, faces significant threats due to these activities. To comprehend the consequences of constructing a barrage on the river's natural state, a comprehensive morphological assessment was conducted, comparing the river's condition before and after the construction of the Barrage. Furthermore, the morphological characteristics both upstream and downstream of the Barrage structure were analyzed. The research focused on various morphological aspects, such as planform configuration, channel width, braiding index, and riverbed elevation, which were affected by these human-induced changes. To investigate temporal changes, topographical maps, and satellite imagery from different years (1931, 1975, 1990, 2005, and 2022) were retrieved and processed using Arc GIS 10.2 software. This empirical study provides valuable insights into the influence of the Barrage on the fluvial landscape and stream geomorphology of the Mahananda River, shedding light on its ecological implications. The findings from this study contribute to a scholarly understanding of the significant alterations to the river's physical features and shape resulting from the presence of the Barrage. By shedding light on the human impacts on this vital river system, this research is a crucial step towards effective and sustainable river management practices in the region.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Spring Issue: 2024:15(1) pp.1 - 10 , 2024
The city of Bijapur is located in the dry Deccan region of India. Yet, it ensured a sustainable w... more The city of Bijapur is located in the dry Deccan region of India. Yet, it ensured a sustainable water supply to its citizens for agricultural or domestic use during the 14th to 18th centuries under the Bahmani and Adil-Shahi dynasties. Two unique urban water systems, the Khair-e-Jari, and Muhammed Nada, accompanied by several cisterns, made it possible to populate and develop a city in the semi-arid region of India. Watershed management techniques were applied to ensure the sustainability of these water systems. Though in ruins, it provides water for irrigation and domestic use even today. Extensive ground surveys were conducted to record every segment using a mobile-based mapping application and handheld navigation device. Satellite data, topographical maps, historical maps, and literature reviews aided in linking up all segments to prepare the first complete map of the Khair-e-Jari and Muhammed Nada water systems. Bijapur, a heritage city of Karnataka State, has undergone unplanned organic urban growth coupled with a lack of awareness, understanding, conservation practices, and appropriate implementation of existing policies. This has resulted in an unsustainable geophysical alteration of the fragile hydraulic landscape affecting these unique water systems. The objective of this article is to bring to light the urban water heritage of Bijapur through mapping and unraveling its utility, construction techniques, and the profound knowledge of watershed management that underpinned their success while aiming to ignite a flame of awareness towards the conservation of this invaluable water heritage. This paper delves into the intricate details of the historic urban water systems of Bijapur. It discusses the challenges in conserving them as national heritage, emphasizing the need for urgent action to ensure their preservation for future generations.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Autumn Issue: 2023:14(3) pp.108 - 114, 2023
Bihar is India's second lowest urbanized state after Himachal Pradesh, as per the 2011 Census. Pa... more Bihar is India's second lowest urbanized state after Himachal Pradesh, as per the 2011 Census. Patna division is the most urbanized administrative division of Bihar, with a level of urbanization of 22.66 percent. But both Bihar and Patna divisions are far behind the national level of urbanization at 31.16 percent. Although there are many rural settlements in Bihar and Patna division satisfy the first two criteria of the definition of urban settlement given by the Census of India but being an agricultural prime state, these rural settlements do not meet the last criteria of 75 percent male working population in non-agricultural activity for being an urban settlement. They are - potential urban centers that may include urban settlements or mini-towns. This paper analyses the trends and patterns of urbanization in the Patna Division. It also attempts to analyze the pattern of potential urbanization in the Patna Division. The article makes use of the Census of India data. It considers rural settlements with 10,000 and more population of Patna Division as potential urban nodes.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.102 - 107, 2023
The present study examines the utilization of remote sensing methodologies and Geographic Informa... more The present study examines the utilization of remote sensing methodologies and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology in examining river channels, with a specific emphasis on the downstream area of the Mecsek Mountains in Hungary. Comprehending alterations in river channels is of paramount importance in the advancement of environmentally conscious and sustainable fluvial endeavours, concurrently mitigating expenses associated with maintenance. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) provide a robust and effective means of obtaining and analysing water resource data, encompassing the delineation of water catchment areas. The present study utilises overlay techniques and remote sensing interpretation to collect various parameters, including land use, landforms, soil texture, and rock type maps, with the aim of developing a water catchment model. The findings suggest that water catchment areas exhibit a range of potential levels, spanning from excellent to very poor. The aforementioned findings possess noteworthy implications for formulating water resources management policies and emphasize the invaluable contribution of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology in analyzing river catchments. In general, this study emphasizes the efficacy of remote sensing and GIS techniques in promoting the progress of environmental management practices in river systems.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.90 - 101 , 2023
The article examines the extent to which Siliguri City of North Bengal is applicable on the line... more The article examines the extent to which Siliguri City of North Bengal is applicable on the line of Jefferson's “Primate City Law”. Some spatial, geostrategic, and other situational factors have been selected and analyzed to show how Siliguri has gradually become the most populous city as well as the prime city of the North Bengal region. The study also tried to measure the hierarchy of towns, trends of urban growth, and changes in the demographic pattern of the towns of North Bengal by applying Zipf's 'Law of Rank-Size distribution'. Therefore, various techniques such as the primacy index, primacy factors, and expected town size after Zipf have been applied to show how the primacy of Siliguri City has been gradually increasing with respect to the region of North Bengal and its surroundings.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.83 - 89 , 2023
Agriculture is the prime livelihood sector in the country, where about 70 percent of the populat... more Agriculture is the prime livelihood sector in the country, where about 70 percent of the population directly or indirectly depends on agricultural activities. It plays an important role in the socio-economic development of the country. Mirzapur is one of the backward districts in the middle Gangetic plain region of Uttar Pradesh, where agriculture is still the primary source of livelihood for the population. Cropping pattern is a dynamic concept that refers to crop distribution over time. Different types of crops, like paddy (rice), wheat, gram, jowar, bajra, maize, sugarcane, vegetables, etc., are produced in the study area. After introducing the Green Revolution, India modified the cropping pattern by using an effective irrigation system and correct use of fertilizers to boost the crops and its impact on cropping patterns in the study area; farmers left the traditional cropping pattern and adopted the modern cropping pattern system. The present study aims to understand the dynamics of agricultural development and cropping patterns in the study area by field survey and using secondary data sources collected from various government publications. The area under different crops of the study area has been analyzed and interpreted through tables and maps.
Indian Journal of Spatial Science Winter Issue: 2023:14(4) pp.71 - 82 , 2023
The Silabati River Basin's morphometric analysis was conducted through the use of RS and GIS met... more The Silabati River Basin's morphometric analysis was conducted through the use of RS and GIS methodologies. The drainage basin and network were delineated through SRTM DEM. In this study, the geomorphic features are primarily separated into three major groups, including linear elements, areal elements, and relief elements. The entire watershed is 4182.75 km2, while the perimeter is 377.31 km. The basin has a high elongation ratio of 0.55, indicating a highly elongated shape. The river network is classified as a 6th-order stream. The overall length of the river is 3045.69 km. In contrast, the primary channel measurement is 188.40 km for the entire Silabati river system. The average bifurcation ratio (Rb) is 4.264, even though the weighted mean bifurcation ratio has been estimated to be 4.663. The stream density of this river system is 0.73 km/km2, whereas the stream frequency is 0.33 number/km2. The maximum relief is 227 meters, and the minimum relief is 0 meters. The trend of the basin's hypsometric curve is similar to an "s" shape, and the hypsometric integral is 0.36, suggesting the basin belongs to the mature stage. These observations can contribute to a better understanding of the multiple morphometric characteristics at work, improving our spatial comprehension for rational decision-making to design suitable management strategies throughout the whole watershed.
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