Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Rice Cultivation in Telangana: Irrigation Expansion, Structural Transformation, and Sustainability Concerns (2016–18 to 2022–24)

Kanagiri SN Prasad

Centre for Economic and Social Studies (CESS), Ex-ICRISAT, Hyderabad, India.

Corresponding Author Email:kanagirisprasad@gmail.com

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.12944/CARJ.14.2.12

Article Publishing History

Received: 30 Jun 2026
Accepted: 13 Aug 2026
Published Online: 28 Aug 2026

Review Details

Reviewed by: Dr. Vikram Agone
Second Review by: Dr. hongfen
Final Approval by: Dr. Surendra Singh Bargali

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Abstract:

The rapid expansion of rice cultivation in Telangana following major irrigation investments has significantly altered the spatial distribution and seasonality of agricultural production. However, the magnitude and agro-ecological implications of this transformation have not yet been sufficiently quantified at the district level. However, the magnitude and agro-ecological implications of this transformation have not yet been sufficiently quantified at the district level. This study examines the spatio-temporal restructuring of rice cultivation across Telangana by comparing district-level rice area between the triennium periods 2016–18 and 2022–24, with emphasis on irrigation dependency, seasonal intensification, and regional differentiation. The findings reveal a substantial increase in the average rice area per district from 149,269.73 acres to 371,317.44 acres, representing an expansion of approximately 148.7%. Established rice-producing districts such as Nizamabad, Karimnagar, and Jagtial retained their prominence, while the most rapid growth occurred in previously less-intensive and semi-arid districts, including Vikarabad, Rangareddy, Nagarkurnool, Siddipet, and Medak. Rice cultivation became increasingly widespread across the state, accompanied by a marked expansion of irrigated and Rabi cultivation, indicating a transition from predominantly seasonal production to a more irrigation-dependent and year-round rice production system. The study identifies a clear spatial redistribution of rice cultivation from traditional production belts towards emerging rice-intensive districts across contrasting agro-ecological settings. While this transformation has enhanced production potential and food security, it also highlights increasing dependence on irrigation and the need for region-specific agricultural strategies. The findings emphasise the necessity of agro-ecological zone-based planning that integrates water-use efficiency, crop diversification, and sustainable land and irrigation management.

Keywords:

Agricultural Sustainability; Agro-Ecological Zones; Cropping Pattern; Food Grain Security; Irrigation Expansion; Kaleshwaram Project; Mission Kakatiya; Rabi Intensification; Rice Cultivation; Spatio-Temporal Analysis; Structural Transformation; Telangana

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