Optimization of multi-objective cropping pattern using linear and goal programming approaches

Irrigation planning and scheduling are essential components of water management in irrigated agriculture. For this purpose, optimal allocation of land and water is required for optimization of cropping pattern under a set of limitations. In this paper, an attempt was made to optimize the cropping pattern for Barna irrigation project using Linear and Goal Programming (LP and GP) approaches. Three different objectives such as maximization of net return, protein and calorie values were considered for optimization of cropping pattern. The factors like amount of net return values of protein and calorie, and quantum of water utilized for irrigation by LP and GP were considered for selection of best approach for optimization of cropping pattern for the project. The paper presents the methodology adopted in optimizing the cropping pattern using LP and GP approaches and the results obtained from the Study. GP approach was found to be best for optimization of cropping pattern for the project.