1

CHAPTER – III

GEOGRAPHICAL SETTING AND

SOCIO ECONOMIC STATUS OF

STUDY REGION

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CHAPTER : III

GEOGRAPHICAL SETTING AND SOCIO ECONOMIC

STATUS OF STUDY REGION

3.1 Introduction:

The Sangli district is situated in the Southern part of Maharashtra and is

a part of Deccan plateau. It is endowed with the gift of fertile black soils in the

central parts. The rainfall decreases from west to east. The eastern part of

Sangli district has a scanty drought prone belt of the state. Thus there are

regional disparities.

The central part of Sangli district is cultivable area. The eastern part

include Jat, Kavathe Mahankal tahsils is drought prone area and has

insignificant irrigation facilities. The northern part of Sangli district also

rainshadow area. There is always accute shortage of drinking water.

The Sangli district consists of Ten tahsils, namely district Walwa,

Shirala, Atpadi, Khanapur, Tasgaon, Miraj, Jat, Kavathe Mahankal, Kadegaon

and Palus.

Topographically the region has large diversified surface.

Climatically the region falls under the rainshadow region of Sahyadri

Mountain. Temperature increases from west to east and rainfall decreases from

west to east. Climatically, the region shows four seasons, namely monsoon,

post-monsoon, cold season and hot season. The region is drained by Krishna

and its tributaries as Yerala and Agrani.

3.2 SANGLI DISTRICT: LOCATION AND GEOLOGY

3.2.1 LOCATION:-

The Sangli Disrict is one of the most district of Mharashtra state.It is

sistuted between the latitudes 16º45’ N and 17º33’ N and longitudinal of

73º41’East and 75º41’East.

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Figure No. 3.1

4

The district is bounded by Satara district on the North western side.

Southern is boarded by Belgam and Bijapur district of Karnataa Sate.At the

Centers and East Kolhapur district and the Ratnagiri district lies on West of

Sangli district.The total area of the district According to 1991 cencs about

8601.5 Sq.km. According to 2001 cences the population is 2581835 Lakh and

the literacy rate is about 76.6%.The district is divided in to Five Administrative

sub division mainly Khanapur,Walwa,Miraj,Tasgon,Palus.The Shirala and

Walwa Talua was included in Walwa Sub Division.The Miraj Sub division

Comprises of Jath,Kavthe Mhanal and Miraj.The khanapur Sub division

includes Atpadi and Khanapur and Palus Sub Division Include Kadegaon and

Palus .

3.2.2 GEOLOGY:-

The Deccan traps, which cover almost major portion of Maharashtra

state, were erupted as horizontal lava sheets during the Cretaceous - Eocene

times and are supposed to have welled out from the long and the narrow

fissures in the earth crust. These formations are termed ‘traps’ because of their

step like terraced appearance, a characteristic and a common feature in the

scenery of the Traps Deccan. The chief varieties of the Traps are hard, compact

Besalt and vesicular Traps.

The Sangli district is a part of Deccan plateau. Besalt is the main rock in

the Sangli district. The geological formation of Sangli district is only the

Deccan trap. The Deccan lava flows are found usually in the form of

horizontally bedded sheets. They are more or less uniform in composition

corresponding to besalt. These are dark gray or greenish gray in colour.

Some parts of the Sangli district particularly the river valley are

occupied by the typical black soil. These soils are formed from the Deccan

trap. The black soil contains high alumina and carbonates of calcium and

magnesium with variable amount of potash, low nitrogen and phosphorous.

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Figure No. 3.2

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The deposits of calcium carbonate are found in the form of ‘kankar’ in the

eastern part of Miraj taluka. The hill in the region contains hard besalt rock,

which is found in beds of river Yerala. The river beds are main source of sand

for construction.

3.3 PHYSICAL SETTING OF THE REGION :

The terrain of any region throws a powerful illumination on the land use,

the growth and distribution of population and settlement. Relief features are the

product of geological formation of the region. It exercises a direct influence on

land use, cropping pattern, particularly through elevation and slope.

In the Sangli district, there are two main systems of hills. Viz. Sahyadri

range and its offshoots, and the spur of Mahadev range. The Machhindragad –

Kamal Bhairav hill range extend in North West–southeast direction. This range

is offshoot of Mahadev range, which runs along the borders of Tasgaon and

Khanapur tahsils. An offshoot of this range in the form of Aundh hills in Satara

district separates the catchments of river Krishna and river Yerala. The main

range continues further south-eastward and separates the Man River.

3.3.1 RELIEF:

The region is a part of Deccan plateau. The topography of the Sangli

district becomes uneven. The general slope of the land is from north to south

and south-east. There is Mahadev range and its offshoots. The relief divisions

of the region are as below.

a. Central area.

b. South-eastern area.

A. Central area:

It includes Khanapur taluka. This region comprises the part of Khanapur

plateau of Deccan tableland. In this, the western hilly area includes Dongarai-

Tadasar ranges and Apsinge-Nerli ranges continue to the western part of

Khanapur tahsil and Kadegaon tahsil. They run in west-east direction.

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Figure No. 3.3

8

The eastern hilly ranges are spread in northwest to southeast direction.

They are named as Solkai Dongar, Renavi Dongar, Dargoba shukracharya

Dongar etc. The plateau region comprises mainly western part of Khanapur

tahsil.

B. South-eastern area:

The Dandoba range is comprises in the north of Miraj tahsil. The

Dandoba range is water divider of Agrani and Krishna River. The general

nature of the range is featured by the occurances of alternate spurs and small

valleys. The altitude foot hill ranges from 600 to 900m. Presenting undulated

topography.

In the eastern part of this area includes Kavathe Mahankal tahsil and

some part of the Jat tahsil. There are local hills spread over these areas towards

east-west and south to east - west. The land on the hills is more or less

heightened; normally these hills are covered with jungle grass.

3.3.2. DRAINAGE:

Water resources emerge from nature’s gift of rain, wells, rivers, lakes

and streams. Irrigation water i.e. dams, canals are important and assured source

for agriculture. Availability potable drinking water is also equally important

today.

In the Sangli district, the river Krishna, Yerala and Warana and its

tributaries make the region fertile. River Krishna flows the south- western

border of the region and also makes the region fertile.

A. Yerala River:

The Yerala, the largest river of the left bank of the northern feeders of

the Krishna rises in Solkanath hills in the extreme north of Khatav. It flows

north to south in a valley flanked by the Vardhangad - Machhindragad range on

the right or west and by the Mahimangad – Panhala range on the left or east.

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Figure No. 3.4

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It flows 90 kms in Tasgoan and Miraj tahsil joins the Krishna near the

Bramhnal. The east bank tributaries of the Yerala are generally longer though

somewhat drier than those of the west.

The important west bank tributary of the Yerala is Nani River. It has

parallel to the Vardhangad – Machhindragad range and is joined by several

small tributaries which drain the eastern slopes of that range, the chief of which

is Mahadev Odha. Half a mile below the junction of the latter, the Nani has

been dammed at Chikhli and the chikhli canal taking off from it on the western

bank of the river affords some limited irrigation facilities between it and the

river.

a.1 Sonhira Odha:-

The Sonhira Odha is another west bank tributary of the Yerala flowing

eastwards on the northern side of the Kamal Bhairav mountain into the Yerala.

a.2 Kapur Nala:-

It is most importance because it has a good subterranean flow of water

under the sands even in the dry season. Oil pumps installed on wells on its

banks tap this subterranean flow and regular crops of sugarcane, plantain and

chilli are raised. At Tasgaon there are even coconut and chilli gardens on the

banks of this stream.

B. Agrani River :-

The Agrani River is second most important river in the Sangli district.

The origin of the river begins from the temple of Agasthi Hrushi near village

Ainwadi (Venapur) in Khanapur tahsil. After flowing about 32.18 km. in a

southward direction, river turns towards the south – east. The river has narrow

valley bottom.

There are number of small a tributaries which joins the river Agrani.

One important tributary of the Agrani River rises on the plateau some 3.21 km.

above Kundlapur and flows due southwards passing by Kuchi and Kavathe

Mahankal before joining the Agrani.

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C. Krishna River:-

River Krishna is a main source of supply of water for drinking,

industries and irrigation. It flows south – western border of the Sangli district

especially Walwa and Miraj talukas. Yerala joins the Krishna river by border

the Sangli district but Agrani joins it just outside. The Krishna valley of the

Sangli district is the most fertile.

D. Warana:-

The Western Part of Sangli district is Bordard by Warana Rivar. The

Warana River Origian in the Sahyandri range.

3.3.3. CLIMATE:

Climatically, this region falls under the great monsoon and associated

with the rainshadow region of the Sahyadri Mountain.The character of

monsoon with four months of rainy season followed by eight months of

relatively dry period of winter and summer. The annual climate cycle consists

of the region has four season.

A. South – west monsoon season–June to September.

B. Post – monsoon season-October to mid December.

C. Cold weather season–Mid December to February.

D. Hot weather season–March to May.

A. South – west monsoon season (June to September) :-

June to September is a south–west monsoon period. About 85 per cent

of the total rainfall of the region occurs during this period. The average annual

rainfall in the Yerala region is 559mm and in the Agrani region is 470mm.In

general the rainfall decreases from west to east. In part of Miraj tahsil the

climate is pleasant.

The air is highly humid in the four southwest monsoon months, while in

other months it is dry. The winds are strong, particularly on the hills, in south

west monsoon season. In the rest of the year, they are light moderate. The

maximum temperature of May is 420c and minimum temperature of January is

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7.50c in Yerala region. And the maximum temperature is 420c and minimum

temperature is 60c in Agrani region.

Table No – 3.1 Average rainfall in Sangli District

Sr.No Tahsil Rainfall (in mm.) %

1 Walwa 692.7 12.1

2 Shirala 1019.0 18.0

3 Khanapur 543.4 9.5

4 Kadegaon N.A. -

5 Palus 619.3 11.0

6 Tasgaon 616.9 10.85

7 Miraij 643.4 11.31

8 Kavathe Mahanakal 529.7 9.31

9 Jat 553.2 9.7

10 Atpadi 468.1 8.2

Total 5685.1 100

Source – Socio-Economic Abstract 2007-08

Rainfall in Sangli District (mm)

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Wa

lwa

Sh

ira

la

Kh

an

ap

ur

Ka

de

ga

on

Pa

lus

Ta

sga

on

Mir

aij

Ka

vath

eM

ah

an

aka

l

Jat

Atp

ad

i

Fig-3.5

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B. Post –monsoon period:-

October to mid December is a post – monsoon period. The south – west

monsoon withdraws from the region by first half of October. But sometimes

rainfall occurs with thunder showers in this period. October marks the

transition from rainy season to winter. There is a sudden change in temperature

that produces a familiar phenomenon of ‘October Heat’ and there is a certain

amount of precipitation accompanied by thunderstorms. Wind, during this

period, all over the region is generally light to moderate.

C. Cold Weather Season:-

Mid December to February is cold weather period. It is the period of

cool and bracing climate. During the season fine weather prevails with strong

dry easterly winds. Sometimes local inversion of temperature takes place

during the early morning hours. December is the coldest month. In this month

the mean daily maximum temperature is 28.90c. While the mean daily

minimum temperature is 14.30c.The range of temperature is 14.60c. The

minimum temperature may sometimes go below 70c.

D. Hot Weather Season:-

March to May is hot weather period. May is the hottest month. The

mean daily maximum temperature is 37.10c and the mean daily minimum

temperature is 20.80c. The range of temperature is 8.30c. The heat is intense and

the maximum temperature may sometimes go up to 420c. Afternoon

thundershowers bring welcome relief from the heat on some days. This season

is of low humidity.

3.3.4 Rainfall :-

Rainfall is the very important factor, which influence the agricultural

activities as well as the dairy activities in the Sangli district. The region lies in

the rain-shadow region of Sahyadri. The rainfall varies in different parts of the

region.

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Figure No. 3.6

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The important aspects of rainfall which are to be studied are – 1.

General distribution of rainfall 2. Seasonal distribution of rainfall 3. Intensity

of rainfall and 4. Number of rainy days.

3.3.5 General distribution of rainfall:-

The general distribution of rainfall in the Sangli district is very uneven.

The rainfall decreases from west to east. Khanapur tahsils in the north and

Kavathe Mahankal and Jat tahsils in the east receives, whereas it is above

600mm in the central tahsils such as Palus, Tasgaon and Miraj tahsils.And

Abovu 800to1000 mm in walwa and Shirala Thasil

The Sangli district receives the rainfall of below 500mm. Therefore,

rainfall is not sufficient to agricultural development and farming without

irrigation is not possible. Since, dairy activity is very essential to subsidiary

occupation for agriculture in Sangli district.

3.3.6 Seasonal Distribution of Rainfall:-

Seasonality is an important characteristic of the rainfall of the region

other than uneven distribution and uncertainty. Although the rainfall is received

in all the seasons. It is mainly during the south–west monsoon and north–east

monsoon periods.

However the principal rainy season is from June to September and quite

a large percentage above 52 to 54 per cent of the mean annual rainfall of the

region is received during south–west monsoon as shown in map 2.6. A. July

and August are the rainiest months throughout the region. Rainfall decreases

from west to east.

From the second half of September, south–west monsoon looses its

strength and north–eastern monsoon takes its place. Rainfall during this period

is maximum (30%) in the Agrani valleys and low (26%) in Yerala valley.

At the close of November, north–eastern monsoon decreases its

influence and cool season starts. From December to February rainfall is very

mearge through the region. The rainfall (below 2%) is received in the eastern

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part (Agrani valley) and no rainfall available towards west and north–west

(Yerala valley). During the hot season, rainfall occurs occasionally with the

thunderstorms and heavy showers of rain or hails and speedy winds. Its

distribution shows that maximum rainfall (22%) is received in the western parts

and decrease towards east.

3.3.7 Rainy days and Rainfall:-

Table No – 3.2

Rainy days and Rainfall in mms. (2008)

Source: - socio – Economic Abstract 2007-08 Sangli and Satara district.

The table 3.2 reveals that the tahsilwise amount of rainfall in mms and

number of rainy days. The Walwa,Shirala tahsil receives highest rainfall

amounts about 868.6mm and Shirala 977mm. The Palus tahsil receives lowest

rainfall amounts about 247.5mms and receives 34 days rainfall. The Vita

Centerof Khanapur tahsil receives 41 days rainfall and amounts about 708mm.

The Miraj tahsil receives 32 days rainfall and amounts about 433.6mms

rainfall. The Kavathe Mahankal and Jat tahsil receives 29 and 29 days rainfall

and amounts about 462mm and 406.2mms. rainfall respectively.

Sr.No. Tahsils/centre. Rainfall in mms. No. of Rainy days.

1 Walwa 868.6 44

2 Khanapur 708.0 41

3 Kadegaon 653.0 50

4 Tasgaon 452.7 37

5 Palus 247.5 27

6 Miraj 433.6 32

7 Kavathe Mahankal 462.0 29

8 Jat 406.2 29

9 Shirala 977.0 59

10 Atpadi 420.0 34

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RAINY DAYS AND RAINFALL

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Walwa Khanapur Kadegao n Tasgao n P alus M iraj KavatheM ahankal

Jat Shirala A tpadi

Fig-3.7

3.3.8 SOILS:-

Soil is considered to be very important resources because it is the soil

that acts as medium for the cultivation of crops. India being an agricultural

country. Soil is the primary resource of India. All our food, clothing and many

other daily requirements are derived directly or indirectly from the soil. soil

occupies very important in India’s economy.

The soils of the region are derived from the Deccan trap. The

characterisitic and distribution of soils in the region are influenced by

essentially by nature and intensity of weathering, mode and rapidity of fluvial

transport. These are generally classified as follows. (Map -2.9)

A. Coarse shallow soils.

B. Medium black soils.

C. Deep black soils.

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Figure No. 3.8

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A. COARSE SHALLOW SOILS:

In the Sangli district, 25 per cent soils are coarse shallow type soils.

These are located in the north, north east, south and south–eastern parts of the

region, especially broad area of eastern part of Miraj taluka, southern part of

Kavathe Mahankal and part of Jat tahsil.

These are light brown in colour and loamy to sandy in texture having

low depth. These soils are deficient in Nitrogen, organic carbon and

phosphrous. They are less productive and generally groundnuts, Jowar, Bajara,

Grapes, wheat, potato, Tomato are grown in these soils.

B. MEDIUM BLACK SOILS:-

53 Per cent soils are medium black soil in the Sangli district. These soils

are found a large part of the region. These are located in the south–west parts of

Khanapur, Atpadi, Tasgaon and Kavathe Mahankal tahsils of the region. These

soils are loamy to clayee in texture. Sugarcane, cotton, wheat, Jowar, Maize,

Soyabean, and Vegetables are cultivated in these soils.

C. DEEP BLACK SOILS:-

20 per cent soils are deep black soils in the Sangli district. The broadest

belt of this rich soil is found in the Yerala river valley. The soil is very rich in

calcium and magnesium but poor in nitrogen and phosphorus. These soils are

black in colour due to the presence of titaniferrous magnetite, iron and humus

content. The soils are very deep along the river valleys in Warana and Krishana

rivar besin particular in east part talua and Weast of Miraj Thasil. The

advantage of the soil lies in its possessing a high water holding capacity but

poor in drainage and excessive water makes in water logged. Therefore, water

management is very essential in the river area.

3.4 NATURAL VEGETATION:-

The geographical area of Sangli district 32 thousand hectares area under

forest in the Sangli district. The Sangli district includes Ten Tahsils. Out of

these tahsils Yerala valley includes the Khanapur, Kadegaon, Tasgaon, Miraj

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and some part of Kavathe Mahankal tahsil and Agrani valley includes the some

part of Atpadi , Khanapur and Tadgaon tahsils and larger area of Kavathe

Mahankal and a small part of Jat tahsil.

The spatial distribution of forest reveals that the northern and western

region occupies large area under forest cover, while the eastern region occupy

less than northern and western region under forest.

In the Sangli district, vegetation is sparse and the trees are of dry

decidues and thorny bush types. Neem, Babhul, Tamarind, and Mango are the

major trees found in Miraj tahsil. In the eastern part of this tahsil especially on

the fallow land thin grass is found. The grassy area with sparse tree growth in

Jat tahsil i.e. Khair, Tarwad trees etc. Scattered tree growth exists in three

villages viz. Belunkhi, Jirgyal and khalati in Jat. Other areas in Jat taluka are

rocky and murmad and grow only inferior type of grass. Forests in Tasgaon and

Khanapur talukas are scrub forests with bare and bush sprinkled hills to the east

of the Krishna-river. The main species are Babhul, Khair, Tarwad, Neem,

Chinch, Jambhul, Bor (ziziphus jujuba), Mango are found in the Sangli district.

The table No -3.3 shows the tahsilwise area under forest for year 2000-

2001.

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Table No- 3.3

TAHSILWISE FOREST AREA (2000-2001)

Sr. No. Tahsil

Area under Forest (in hectares)

Percentage to total area

1 Walwa 5700 16.80

2 Khanapur 5687 16.76

3 Kadegaon 5249 15.47

4 Tasgaon 2977 8.78

5 Palus 1984 5.85

6 Miraj 1079 3.18

7 Kavathe Mahankal 924 2.72

8 Jat 1305 3.85

9 Shirala 4900 14.44

10 Atpadi 4120 12.14

Source: - Compiled by researcher from the record of district statistical office, Sangli and Satara.

TAHSILWISE FOREST AREA (2000-2001)

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

Walwa Khanapur Kadegaon Tasgaon Palus Miraj Kav athe

Mahankal

Jat Shirala Atpadi

Figure No. 3.9

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The table 3.3 reveals that the Ten tahsils covered by forest.

Khanapur,Shirala,Walwa and Kadegaon tahsil has the higher i.e. 8.24 per cent

of its total area under forest. Walwa tahsil second with 6.24. Jath ,

Atpadi,Tasgon,Palus thasil has the medium 3 to 5 per cent of the area under

forest. Miraj and Kavathe Mahankal tahsils has the minimum i.e. 1.16 and 1.30

per cent of their area under forest respectively.

SOCIO – ECONOMIC STATUS OF THE SANGLI DISTRICT

3.5 INTRODUCTION:-

In the preceeding chapter the role of physical factors in agriculture and

dairy activity has been analysed. However, farming is not merely a product of

physical setting but also of man-made frame. Physical setting of a region

provides broad limits to agricultural activities within a which farmer acts and

cultivates with the consideration of several socio-economic factors which set

their imprints on the population, irrigation, transportation, industries and

banking facilities. These factors are analysed based on the basis of available

data and information abstracted from the agricultural and population sensus and

government report.

3.6 AGRICULTURE:-

Agriculture has been the main source of livelihood of the people in the

region. Irrigation policy for each region is almost similar except it differs due

to volume and length of rivers, their numbers, sources other than rivers, viz.

natural reserviors, nallas, wells, etc. The policy is also decided on the basis of

quality of land, cropping pattern,total geographical area,etc. With the help of

irrigation facilities farmers increased their agricultural production and

improved their own economic conditions. In the low rainfall region,irrigation is

the most important factor. Canals, wells and lift irrigation are the main sources

of irrigation in the region. In Sangli district, Zilla Parishad, State and Private

co-operative societes play an important role in the working of irrigation

schemes. There are some medium projects of irrigation in the region.

Yeralwadi project (3140 hectares), Siddhewadi project (730

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hectares),Basappawadi project (860 hectares), Ner project (4320 hectares), are

some of the projects which irrigate 9050 hectares of land.In the region There

are Krishna–Koyana project (Takari-Maisal), Tembhu project, Jihe–Kathapur

project are the major projects out of the Sangli district which supplied water to

the Sangli district. There are a large number of small, medium and large lift

irrigation schemes which are supplying water to the region.

3.6. 1. CROPPING PATTERN:-

India is predominantly an agricultural country. Nearly 65 percent of the

total population of the country is engaged in agriculture. In Spite of the rapid

growth of industries and service sector in the region agriculture is still an

important economic activity. The geographical area of upper east Krishna

valley is 528400 hectares, of which net area under agriculture is 383000

hectares.

Agriculture in the Sangli district is mostly of the intensive subsistence

type with an emphasis on the production of food grains. Some commercial

crops like cotton, sugarcane, oilseeds, vegetables and fruits etc. are also taken

in the region

Kharif and Rabbi are the two main crop growing seasons. The Kharif

crops are sown with the onset of monsoon and harvested in September –

October. The Rabbi crops are sown in October–November and harvested in

February-March. There are some crops like Jawar and cotton which are grown

in both the seasons. Sugarcane stands in the field for 12 to14 months spread

over both the seasons.

Over a large area in the region the rainfed crops are found such land is

known as ‘Jirayat’ or unirrigated land. Hence, the farmer has to depend entirely

on the natural source of water for crop production. Most of the farmers have

successfully adopted dry farming techniques where conservation of moisture is

of vital importance, ‘Bagayat’ in contrast is an irrigated land where labour and

water intensive farming is practised. Some crops like sugarcane are entirely

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dependent on irrigation. However irrigation usually supplements rain to

strengthen the main crop or sustain the subsidiary crops.

Small irrigated patches of land with the well as the nucleus are called

‘Malas’. Though the capacity of a well to irrigated, the land is limited farmers

generally grow cash crops which fetch them good returns. It apperars that

farmers are changing their cropping patterns according to the improvement in

technology, economic factors and the nature of demand.

Crops show a marked tendency to adopt the selves to a wide range of

environments. However, in the state climate is the principal factor, which

strongly influences the spatial distribution of crops. The amount of rainfall

received and its seasonal distribution are very significant in explaining the

spatial variation in the occurrence of a crop along with temperature, relief,

edaphic, socio–economic and technological factors.

Bajara is grown as main crop in Kavthe Mhankal and Jath,Atpadi tahsil.

In the region pulses and bajara are grown widely in ‘Kharif’ season while

Jawar, mainly a rabbi crop, is grown. Unirrigated areas of Atpadi, Kavathe

Mahankal and Jat tahsils practise the traditional agriculture based on uncertain

monsoon rains.

The development of irrigation facilities of Yerala and Siddhewadi

project in the area have caused digging of wells which have been utilized for

irrigation purpose.This resulted in to the growth of grape forms and important

cash crops. Now a day there is a considerable increase in the cultivation of

vegetables, fruits, flowers and nursaries. Farmers of the region are practising

intensive and high-tech agriculture.

The influence of Mumbai, Pune, Solapur, Kolhapur, Belgum and

Bengalore markets have given encouragement to farming fruit, flowers,

vegetables and onion production. Spices like turmeric, garlic, ginger are as well

as crop like Rice, Bajara, Jawar, Wheat, Maize, Sunflower, Soyabeans are also

produced most of the crops grown on irrigated as well as non-irrigated supplies

fodder. There fore in the Sangli district, a large scale fodder is available for

livestock and development of dairy farming.

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Table 3.4 reveals tahsilwise area under grain crops that 47.13%

followed by Jawar (27.83%), Bajara (8.51%), Sugarcane (4%) Soyabean

(3.86%), wheat (2.38%), Gram (2.08%), Maize (2.01%), Groundnut (1.94%),

and Rice (0.26%). It means agriculture in the region is mostly of the intensive

subsistence type with an emphasis on the production of food grains.

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Table No – 3.4

Tahsilwise area under different crops in 2009 (Area in Hectares)

Sr. No

Crops Walwa Kadegaon Khanapur Palus Tasgaon Miraj Kavathe

Mahankal Jat Atpadi Shiral Total

1 Rice 4500 225 45 1670 55 82 0 0 5 11441 18023

2 Wheat 3818 400 2850 2290 1920 4800 975 3000 3021 1730 24804

3 Jowar 10861 15125 33850 6225 31450 19950 31000 87660 880 2585 239586

4 Bajara 20 846 8150 --- 270 4250 5230 26750 1624 - 47140

5 Maize 11075 928 1205 830 2070 5750 1550 4174 824 2638 31044

6 Gram 5993 125 3060 2940 2630 4950 875 1200 1575 1410 24758

7 Total Grain

crops 4803 23020 54265 15531 43535 41972 42228 124721 5033 4826 359934

8 Sugarcane 24400 7675 4900 7460 2301 13470 550 1086 535 6511 68888

9 Groundnut 10243 3633 4150 1470 4540 1135 725 1050 445 3780 31171

10 Soyabean 15358 3268 2530 8215 8500 10400 750 10 10 1352 50393

Total 895741

Source: - Agricultural Department of Sangli district and Satara district.

27

Tahsilwise area under different crops in 2009 (Area in Hectares)

0

10000

20000

30000

40000

50000

60000

70000

80000

90000

Walwa Kadegaon Khanapur Palus Tasgaon Miraj KavatheMahankal

Jat Atpadi Shiral

Rice Wheat Jowar BajaraMaize Gram Total Grain crops Sugarcane

Groundnut Soyabean

Figure No. 3.10

28

Table No – 3.5

Ranking of crops

Rank Walwa Kadegaon Khanapur Palus Tasgaon Miraj Kavathe Mahankal

Jat Shiral Atpadi

1 Sugarcane Grain crops Grain crops Grain crops Grain crops Grain crops Grain crops Grain crops Rice Grain crops

2 Soyabean Jawar Jawar Soyabean Jawar Jawar Jawar Jawar Sugarcane Wheat

3 Maize Sugarcane Bajara Sugarcane Soyabean Sugarcane Bajara Bajara Grain crops Bajara

4 Jowar Groundnut Groundnut Jawar Groundnut Soyabean Maize Maize Groundnut Jawar

5 Groundnut Soyabean Gram Gram Gram Maize Wheat Wheat Maize Sugarcane

6 Gram Maize Wheat Wheat Sugarcane Gram Gram Gram Jawar Gram

7 Grain crops

Bajara Soyabean Rice Maize Wheat Soyabean Sugarcane Wheat Maize

8 Rice Wheat Sugarcane Groundnut Wheat Bajara Groundnut Groundnut Gram Groundnut

9 Wheat Rice Maize Maize Bajara Groundnut Sugarcane Soyabean Soyabean Soyabean

10 Bajara Gram Rice - Rice Rice Rice Rice - Rice

Source- Compiled by the researcher.

29

30

Figure No. 3.11

Table 3.5 reveals that the ranking of crops in the Sangli district in 2009.

There are prepared first three ranking crops in the region. It is observed that

there are first ranking crop is grain crops which area is 421726 hectares in the

region. It is also observed that the second ranking crop is Jawar in six tahsils

except Walwa, Shirala, Atpadi, Palus thasil. Third ranking crops observed

Bajara in Khanapur, Kavathe Mahankal, Atpadi and Jat tahsil, Soyabean in

Miraj and Sugarcane in Walwa, Kadegaon, Palus and Miraj tahsil. Sugarcane is

largely cultivated in irrigated areas.

3.6.2 IRRIGATION:-

Irrigation is the artificial application of water to overcome the

deficiencies in rainfall for the growing of crops as well as availability of

fodder. It is essential for the better yield and for assurance of the crops.

Irrigation development is the region has to be viewed in the context of the

climatic conditions especially rainfall, which is unevenly distributed and

irregular. The region is semi-arid and not a large difference in the rainfall,

therefore famines have occurred several times in the region. Agriculture is

highly speculative venture under such harsh conditions which affect the

agricultural production efficiency. Therefore, irrigation is vital for the success

of agriculture in the region. Irrigation facilities are well developed in some

parts of the region. At present the irrigation is practiced in the region and it is

from wells, rivers, tanks etc. However, wells, canals (Government and private)

and other sources including lift irrigation are the chief sources of irrigation.

31

Table No – 3.6

Tahsilwise Area under Irrigation in 2008-09

Sr.No. Tahsil

Geographical Area

in Hectares

Irrigated Area in Hectares

2008 – 2009

2008-09 Area %

1 Walwa 80609 45650 42.7

2 Khanapur 68953 13665 15.20

3 Kadegaon 63469 5504 6.12

4 Tasgaon 66756 6742 7.50

5 Palus 6847 2565 8.85

6 Miraj 92624 33650 37.42

7 Kavathe Mahankal

51139 6678 7.43

8 Jat 41975 4450 4.95

9 Shiral 60700 2240 11

10 Atpadi 65960 4250 6.3

Total 528400 142058 100

Source – Compiled by the researcher.

32

Figure No. 3.12

33

It is also observed that the total area under irrigation is 82721 hectares in 2000-

01 which is increased to 142058 hectares in 2008-09 in the Sangli district.

In 2008-09, the highest percentage of area under irrigation is observed in

Walwa tahsil (42.7%), followed by Miraj (37.42%), Shirala (11%), Palus

(8.85%), Tasgaon (7.50%), Kavathe Mahankal (7.43%), Kadegaon (6.12%),

Atpadi (6.3%), Jat (4.95%) and Palus (2.85%). In palus tahsil percentage of

irrigated area is low because in this tahsils only 8 villages include in the Sangli

district. But in Jat tahsil have very low percentage because this tahsil is very

dry area and there is no abundant water available and no river flowing in a year

except monsoon period. Thus there is no irrigation facilities developed.

3.6.3 Well Irrigation:-

Wells are the major source of irrigation of the region; an attempt is made

to study the density pattern of wells. The density of wells in Yerala division is

9 wells per sq/kms as well as Agrani division 10 wells per sq/kms.

Table No 3.7 Tahsilwise Density of Irrigation wells in 2004-2005

Sr. No Tahsil Total - wells

useful for irrigation

Not useful for Irrigation

1 Walwa 5752 5022 722 2 Khanapur 8610 7889 721

3 Kadegaon NA NA NA

4 Tasgaon 7881 6619 1262

5 Palus NA NA NA

6 Miraj 10160 10012 148

7 Kavathe Mahankal

7009 6259 750

8 Jat 9220 8555 665 9 Shirala 3641 3390 251 10 Atpadi 9450 8600 850

Total 54651 56346 5369 Source : Socio – Economic Review and district Statistical Abstract 2005-2006

34

Tahsilwise Density of Irrigation wells in 2004-2005

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

12000

Walw a Khanapur Kadegaon Tasgaon Palus Miraj KavatheMahankal

Jat Shirala Atpadi

Total - wells useful for irrigation Not useful for Irrigation

Figure No. 3.13

The table 3.7 reveals that tahsilwise distribution of wells in the region in

2004 - 05. It is classified as useful for irrigation and not useful for irrigation.

There are about 54651 wells in the region, out of them 5369 wells are not

useful for irrigation, and 56346 wells are useful for irrigation. The largest

percentage of wells observed in Miraj (10160) tahsil, followed by Jat (9220),

Khanapur (8610), Tasgaon (7881), Kavathe Mahankal (7009), Atpadi (9450),

Shirala (3641) and Walwa (5752) tahsil. It is also observed that highest useful

wells for irrigation in Miraj (10012) tahsil and lowest is in Shirala (3390) tahsil

and highest not useful wells for irrigation is observed in Tasgaon (1262) and

lowest in Miraj (148).

3.6.4 Tank Irrigation:-

Although, there are some tanks as Ner in northern part and Kuchi,

Landagewadi, Anjani, Khanderajuri, Kosari etc. in the central and eastern part

of the region, area is not reported as irrigated by them. After the widespread

famine of 1972, Government of Maharashtra and Zilla Parishad Sangli have

35

constructed number of percolation tanks in this region under the Employment

Guarantee Scheme. Unfortunately, very few of them are duly constructed and

help to increase the water table.

3.6.5 Canal Irrigation:-

Canal irrigation plays a vital role in the overall irrigation in the region.

Canal irrigation includes both the Government canals and private canals.

Government canals are an important source of irrigation in the region. Private

canals are drawn from the collected water behind the small bunds built across

the streams and valleys. They are the chief source of irrigation.

Table No – 3.8

Major Irrigation Projects in the Sangli District.

Sr. No. Main Project

Year of complete

Length of Canal

Storage capacity

(A million)

Total Beneficial Area in hectares

1 Yeralwadi 1977 49 32.80 5680

2 Siddhewadi 1988 29 8.58 1332

3 Doddanala 1984 8.40 7.78 1346

4 Basappachiwadi 1979 13 7.78 1267

5 Krishna-koyana

(Maisal) project

2008 381 NA 154805

6 Ner 1886 38.80 9.13 4548

Source : Socio-Economic Review 2005-06

Table No 3.8 reveals that the canal irrigation plays important role in the

region. There are major irrigation canal which is irrigated area in the region.

There are Yeralwadi, Siddewadi, Doddanala, Basappachiwadi, Krishna-Koyana

(Maisal)

3.6.6 PROBLEMS OF IRRIGATION:-

36

There are two important irrigational problems in the Sangli district.

Firstly, the major and medium irrigation projects are not utilized sufficiently.

Secondly, considerable area is affected by water logging and salt efflorescence.

Rise of subsoil water in the irrigated area is the first symptom of the damage

being done to soils. The harmful effects of this rise of subsoil water are

noticeable when the water level comes to within one meter from the ground

level.

3.7 POPULATION:-

The Sangli district includes Ten thasils, out of them highest number of

villages include in Miraj tahsil.

According to 2001 census, out of 968.78 lakh total population of the

Maharashtra, 25.84 lakh populations belong to the Sangli district. Out of

557.78 lakh total rural population of Maharashtra 11.42 lakh population

belongs to the rural areas and out of 411 lakh total urban population of

Maharashtra 6.33 lakh population belongs to the urban areas in the Sangli

district. In the Sangli district, out of 16.64 lakh total population 8.62 lakh male

populations and 8.21 lakh population was female. The highest population

located in Miraj tahsil (7.56 lakh) because in this tahsil Miraj and Sangli urban

centers has developed, followed by Walwa, Jath, Tasgaon, Khanapur,

Kadegaon and Kavathe Mahankal, Shiral, Atpadi tahsils. Kadegon and Atpadi

tahsils has a lower population because a small part of these tahsils include in

the Sangli district.

3.8 Growth of population:-

The population of Sangli district has increased from 15.18 lakh in 1991

to 16.68 lakh in 2001, with a decade growth of 15 per cent. The growth rate is

smaller than states rate of 17.9 during the year 1991-2001 within the decade.

The region is having 5284 sq/kms area and populated by 1668 lakh persons.

The average population density of the region is 316 persons per sq/kms.The

37

corresponding figure for Maharashtra State was 315 which is approximately

same.

38

Table No 3.9

Tahsilwise Population in Sangli District (2001)

Sr.

No Tahsil

2001

Total % Male % Female %

1 Walwa 427377 16.54 220542 16.70 206835 16.37

2 Khanapur 162943 6.30 81462 6.17 81481 6.44

3 Kadegaon 135374 5.23 68823 5.21 67141 5.31

4 Tasgaon 232558 9.00 118371 8.96 114187 9.00

5 Palus 157117 6.00 81420 6.16 75697 6.00

6 Miraj 756048 29.26 389149 29.47 366899 29.00

7 Kavathe

Mahankal 144596 5.59 73710 5.58 70886 5.61

8 Jat 283950 11.00 145778 11.00 138172 11.00

9 Shirala 158298 6.12 78356 6.00 79942 6.32

10 Atpadi 125263 4.84 63067 4.77 62196 4.92

Total 2583524 100 1320088 100 1263436 100

Source: - Population Censes 2001

The table 3.9 reveals that the tahsilwise population and their

percentage in Sangli district 2001.

It is observed that the highest percentage of total population is found in

Miraj (29.26%), followed by Walwa (16.54%), Jath (11.0%), Kavathe

Mahankal (5.59%). The highest male as well as female population observed in

Miraj tahsil that is 29.47 per cent and 29.00 per cent respectively. In the region

male population is more than female in Khanapur tahsil .

39

40

Figure No. 3.14

Table No – 3.10

Density of population in the Sangli District (2001)

Sr. No. Tahsil Density of population

per sq / km 1 Walwa 553

2 Khanapur 222

3 Kadegaon -

4 Tasgaon 230

5 Palus 337

6 Miraj 816

7 Kavathe Mahankal 197

8 Jat 129

9 Shirala 248

10 Atpadi 151

Average 301

Source: - Population Censes 2001

Density of population in the Sangli District (2001)

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

Walw a Khanapur Kadegaon Tasgaon Palus Miraj KavatheMahankal

Jat Shirala Atpadi

Figure No. 3.15

41

The table 3.10 reveals that the tahilwise density of population in the

Sangli district in year 2001.

It is observed that in 2001, highest density of population is in Miraj

tahsil that is 816, and lowest in Jat tahsil that is 129. In Kavathe Mahankal and

Jat tahsils density of population were low because this area is drought prone

area and there population has migrated to urban area for getting employment.

3.9 Sex–Ratio:-

Sex ratio, defined as the number of females per thousand males is an

important social indicator to measure the extent of prevailing equality between

males and females in a society at a given point of time.

Table No -3.11

Tahsilwise sex-ratio of the region (2001)

Sr.

No Tahsil

Sex-ratio

2001

1 Walwa 938

2 Khanapur 1000

3 Kadegaon 984

4 Tasgaon 965

5 Palus 930

6 Miraj 943

7 Kavathe Mahankal 962

8 Jat 948

9 Shirala 1020

10 Atpadi 986

Average 957

Source: Indian Population cences (2001-2011)

42

Figure No. 3.16

43

The table 3.11 reveals that the sex–ratio in Sangli district 2001. It is

observed that the sex-ratio in the region had always low to females except

Shirala(120) and Khanapur tahsil (1000) in 2001. Because this region is

droughtprone area and thus there male population migrates in urban area for

getting employment. In Miraj tahsil the sex-ratio is low as 943 because this

tahsil include Sangli and Miraj urban area. There had developed

industrilization and urbanization. sThus in this tahsil people migrated from

surrounding rural area. There had also developed educational and other

facilities. In the region, all tahsils sex-ratio is not more difference.

3.10 Literacy Rate:-

For the purpose of census 2001, a person aged seven and above, who

can both read and write with understanding in any language is treated as

literate. A person, who can only read but cannot write, is not literate. In the

censuses period to 1991 children below five years of age were necessarily

treated as illitreates.

44

Table No. – 3.12

Tahsilwise literacy rate in the Sangli District according to 2001 census.

Sr. No. Tahsil Literacy in per cent

Male Female Total 1 Walwa 88.2 70.2 79.4 2 Khanapur 86.5 65.5 75.9 3 Kadegaon - - - 4 Palus 88.7 70.3 79.7 5 Tasgaon 77.9 67.6 77.8 6 Miraj 90 73.7 82.1 7 Kavathe Mahankal 83.5 62.2 73.0 8 Jat 74.3 51.3 63.0 9 Shirala 86.3 60.9 73.3 10 Atpadi 78.5 54.3 66.4

Average 86.26 66.73 76.62 Maharashtra 86.0 67.0 76.9

Source: - Census report 2001.

Tahsilwise literacy rate in the Sangli District according

to 2001 census.

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

90

Walw a Khanapur Kadegaon Palus Tasgaon Miraj KavatheMahankal

Jat Shirala Atpadi

Male

Female

Figure No. 3.17

45

The table 3.12 reveals that the tahsilwise literacy rate in the Sangli

district according to 2001. In the region, the average literacy rate is 76.62 per

cent and it is existed high the state average (76.9%). Out of them 86.26 per cent

male literacy and 66.73 per cent female literacy in the region as well as 86.0

per cent and 67.0 per cent literacy rate in Maharashtra State respectively.

The highest literacy rate in the region is recorded in Miraj tahsil (82.2%)

because in this tahsil highest population lived in urban sector, followed by

Palus (79.7%), Walwa (79.4%), Tasgoan (77.8%), Khanapur (75.9%) and

Kavathe Mahankal (73.0%) Tahsils. The lower literacy rate is recorded in Jat

tahsil (63.0%). All tahsils of the Sangli district, the male literacy rate is higher

than the female literacy rate. In all tahsils male literacy rate is more than 70 per

cent except Jat tahsil but female literacy rate is less than 60 per cent except

Miraj tahsil.

3.13 CULTURAL SETTING:-

The region has good cultural setting. There is a dominance of Hindu

religion in the region. Muslims, christans, Buddhists and shikhs are in minority.

Nomadic tribes are remarkable in number. Every village has a temple of diety.

They celebrate the annual fair of their village diety, locally knowh as Yatra,

Jatra or Urus. In the Yatra bullock cart race, wrestling and Loknatya (Tamasha)

are the attraction of the local community and attended by nearby villages.

Another feature of the village temple is the Bhajani Mandal. It performs

bhajan at every religious ceremony throughout the year. It develops the co-

operation and integration among the villagers. Besides the village diety, there

are many cults in the society in Hindu religion like Shaiva, Vaishanva, Shakta,

Datta Sampradaya etc.

The people celebrate various festivals like Gudhi Padva, Pola,

Nagpanchami, Gauri–Ganpati, Dasara, Dipawali, Holi pournima etc. by Hindus

as well as by other religion. Id–ul-Fitra and Id-ul-zua and Mohoram are

celebrated by Muslims. They invite people of other religions for “Davat”.

46

Christmas is celebrated by christans while Buddha pournima is celebrated by

Buddhists.

Ashadhi and Mahashivaratri Ekadashis are regarded as sacred in varkari

people and shivas. The Sangli district has temples of shiva, Ganesh and various

dieties of farmers, sheephards and nomadic communities. They have their

dieties as Bhairavnath, Jyotiba, Khandoba, Mhasoba, Biroba, Jakhai, Mariaie,

Satwai, Yallama etc.

The yearly fairs of villages, fairs of kuldevata, cult devata are being

celebrated and attended by large number of people every year. In the Sangli

district, there are famous various important historical and religious Centers

Bhupalgad at Khanapur tahsil, Dandoba – Mahadev caves at Bhose,

Samudreshwar temple at Devarashtra, Dongarai at kadepur, Mallikarjun and

Mhakali temples at Kavathe Mahankal, Kadamb Dev temple at Mahuli,

Revannath at Renavi, Ganesh temple and Musium at Sangli, Bhairavnath

temple at Vita and Ganesh temple, Krushan Mandir, Shukachary in Tasgon

Thasil are conserving the culture of the region. These are visited by thousands

of people. Today the significant activity of Sangli is Ganesh festival and

Kadegaon is Mohoram and attracting the people in large scale.

3.14 TRANSPORTATION:-

The region consists of well transport network. On the western side of the

region Mumbai–pune–Kolhapur–Bengalore Highway (NH-4) runs in north-

south direction. On the northern side of the region Pune–Solapur– Hydrabad

highway (NH-9) parallel to the region runs in west- east direction. (Map 3.6)

47

48

Figure No. 3.18

All the taluka places in the region are well connected with district

places. A various state highways runs in the region. In the Sangli district, state

highway NH4 runs through Walwa and Shirala Thasil . Vita-Tasgaon–Miraj,

SH-78 runs Karad–Vita– Jat, SH-111 runs Islampur–Vita, MSH-3 runs Miraj–

Sangole. SH-140 runs Tasgaon – Kavathe Mahankal–Jat, SH-138 runs Miraj-

Mangsuli and MSH-11 runs Jat to Aigali. That means the Eastern part of Sangli

district is well connected to all places of Maharashtra state.

South central railway connects the region to rest of India. Pune–Miraj –

Bengalore railway route passes through the region parallel to the NH-4 in

north- south direction. While Mumbai-Solapur-Hydrabad–Chennai railway

route on outside of the eastern part of the region runs parallel to pune– Solapur

highway (NH-09). It connects the region to western and southern parts of

Maharashtra and rest of India. Kolhapur–Pune and Miraj– Pandharpur railway

route passes through the region. Miraj is well connected by railway route to

pune and pune is well connected by all transportation route to all major cities in

India.

The millk is perishable and thus well transportation network receives the

millk to all consumers for a little time. Therefore, Sangli district has well

developed by dairy activity.

3.15 INDUSTRIES:-

The development of various industries in the Sangli district has not

been uniform. The industrial landscape of the region locates around the Sangli

and Miraj and its suburbs. These are aligned specifically to pune– Bengalore

railway route, Sangli located in the midst of a fertile hinterland is an important

sugar producing center, with five sugar factories. In the region five sugar

factories that is Vasantdada Patil Shetkari Co-operative. Sugar Factory

(Sangli), Shri Mahakali Sugar Factory (Kavathe Mahankal), Yashwant Co-

operative Suger Factory (Khanapur), Tasgaon and Jat Sugar Factory.Rajaram

49

Bapu Sugar, Hutatma Sugar, Sarvoday Sugar in Walwa taluka. Fateshing Naika

in Shirala taluka. They have tremendously proved successful in changing the

economy. They have not only assured the fair returns to the primary producers

but also have proved as focal points of rural development. Vasantdada Patil

Sugar Factory of Sangli is a large co-operative sugar factory in Asia.

Weaving the blanket industry is very important in Vita, Mahuli has a

facet of diemond. In Tasgaon tahsil, made a raisin from a grape. The cotton

industries are dominated in Miraj and Madhavanagar.

The agro-based, chemical, farmacitucals, machinary and household

industries are found in rural areas of the region. The region has dairy industry,

milk collection, chilling, processing, by-products and cattlefeed units are on a

large scale in the region.

3.16 BANKING FACILITIES:-

With the development of the Sangli district on every major score,

banking has also established its roots in a major way. Banking in the region is

dominated by co-operative sector which has a well spread network of branches

in the region. The nationalized and commercial banks are concentrated mainly

in urban and semi–urban areas. Tahsilwise number of banking offices is

presented in table no.3.13

50

Table No –3.13

Finanlcial Co-operative Santhas in Sangli District. Till 31st March 2009

Sr

No.

Name Finanlcial Co-operativ Santhas Total

1. Agricultural Credit Societies. 191

1. District central Co-operativ Bank.

2. Primary Agricultural Co-operativ

Institutes.

01

748

2. Non Aricultural Co-operativ Credit

Societes.

1523

1.Rural Bank.

2.Rural Co-operatives.

3.Workers Co-operatives.

29

10303

191

3. Treading Institutes - 55

1.District Treading Institutes.

2. Primary Treading Institutes-

a.)Taluka Treading or Special Treading

Institutes.

01

14

40

4 Total Milk Co-operative Societies. 851

5 Total Irregation Institutes. 274

3.17 SOCIO – ECONOMIC CONDITION OF THE REGION:-

The implementation of Operation Flood brought about a “White

Revolution” in India with an increase in milk production. Today, India is the

single largest milk producer in the world with annual production of 84.5

million tons during 2001–2002. The dairy farming has significantly contributed

to the rural economy programmes on prime position as an instrument of socio–

economic change. Dairy sector generates massive employment opportunities

both directly and indirectly to millions of rural population with lowest

51

investment. It is labour intensive and women oriented. It provides employment

to more than 3/4th of the population. Along with regular farming activity, it

gives a contineous employment, a steady source of income and therefore,

dairying itself has been proved to be very effective tool in upgrading the

economic status of the farmers in general and women in particular.

Here,an attempt to be main occupation of milk producers, size of family,

economic condition, educational status, employment generation, infrastructural

facilities etc are studied in the 46 sample villages in the Sangli district.

Information regarding the milk producers has collected during the field work

with the help of questionnaire and personal interviews.