geographical setting and socio economic status of...
TRANSCRIPT
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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
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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
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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.