Proposed Optimized Cropping Pattern for Different Water Availability Scenarios in Markonahalli Reservoir for Upper Shimsha Irrigation Project, Karnataka, India

The optimization model has been developed using linear programming by considering the stochastic nature of the inflows to the reservoir and solved for different storage water availability levels in reservoir viz., 60 per cent, 70per cent, 80per cent, 90per cent and 100 per cent to obtain various cropping patterns under canal command area. Linear programming is used either to maximize or minimize a given objective function. The total command area for cultivation is likely divided between the Kharif and Rabi seasons, with different crops being prioritized in each season based on their growing conditions and water availability. The existing area of 2639.38 ha for paddy is significantly reduced to a constant 1000 ha in the optimized scenarios, regardless of water availability. Sugarcane, with present area of 296.54 ha, the area is increased to 1722.13 ha under 100 per cent water availability but is reduced progressively to just 410.13 ha at 60per cent water availability. Optimization trend highlights finger millet's resilience and suitability under lower water conditions, making it a preferred crop when water is scarce.