REVIEW ON THE PRODUCTION OF TEN MAJOR CROPS IN THE PURVANCHAL REGION OF UTTAR PRADESH, INDIA

Abstract

The Purvanchal region of Uttar Pradesh is one of the most agriculturally significant zones of northern India. The region possesses fertile alluvial soils, abundant groundwater resources, and favorable climatic conditions that support diverse cropping systems. Agriculture remains the primary livelihood source for the majority of the rural population in districts such as Varanasi, Jaunpur, Azamgarh, Gorakhpur, Mau, Ballia, Deoria, Ghazipur, Bhadohi, and Ambedkar Nagar. The present review analyzes the production trends, economic significance, and cultivation characteristics of ten major crops cultivated in Purvanchal, namely rice, wheat, sugarcane, maize, barley, pulses, mustard, potato, lentil, and pigeon pea. The review further evaluates the challenges associated with declining soil fertility, climate variability, irrigation constraints, pest incidence, and market instability. Government interventions, technological advancements, and sustainable agricultural practices have also been discussed. The study highlights that rice–wheat cropping systems dominate the agricultural landscape of Purvanchal, while sugarcane and pulses contribute significantly to rural income generation and food security. Diversification toward oilseeds, pulses, and horticultural crops is gradually emerging as an important strategy for sustainable agricultural development in eastern Uttar Pradesh.