Background on Rajasthan

Before the discussion about the topic in hand let us first understand it in a popular
context. The main argument that comes to mind is how the state can be associated
with. But its indeed very hard to look beyond the Great Indian Desert of the Thar
Desert. Within the gigantic land mass the most notable structure on topographical
terms can be said to be Aravalli Hills. Above all this range divides the state into two
geographical units that runs from north-east to south-west direction. On one hand,
arid or semi-arid that comprises almost sixty percent of the region. On the other
hand, the eastern region is semi-humid and fertile.
The western part of the state comprises of sand, sand dunes and arid conditions. It
consists of sandy arid plains that lie to the west side of the Aravalli range. The main
water bodies of this part of the start are Luni out of which the number of tributaries
includes Bandi, Sukri, Jojui among others. The uniqueness of these rivers are that
they go completely dry during the summer months owing to the fact that they carry
water enough only for a few weeks or days during monsoon. In addition, these
water bodies have become full of alluvial and Aeolian sediments.
Moreover, sparse vegetation can be observed during this part of the region that
comprises low trees, grasses and shrubs. Above all annual rainfall ranges from ten
to fifty cms. Traditionally, cultivation in this part of the state can be limited to the
Kharif rainy season crop. The paucity of facilities ensures that this region does not
allow a winter crop. Thus, the traditional crops include jowar, bajra and moth lentil
as they require bare minimum moisture. It has ensured that animal husbandry,
pastoralism dominates the regional scenario.
But, with the introduction of canal and tubewell irrigation among other newer
methods some parts of the regions have become radically transformed. Thus, it is
not surprising that sugarcane, cotton, wheat and mustard can be seen across the
two districts of Sriganganagar and Hanumangarh.
The eastern part of the Aravalli divide comprises the south-eastern and the eastern
parts of the state. The population density is said to be higher than the western.
Additionally, official sources the annual rainfall comprises sixty to hundred cms of
rainfall. The perennial water bodies of the region are Chambal-Banas and Mahi
systems. These water bodies are said to have calcium carbonate deposits in them.
Furthermore, the region comprises fertile tracts and valleys with alluvium, loam and
black soil being common. Its in complete contrast to the western part of the
Aravalli divide.
In hindsight, sufficient rainfall has ensured agriculture becomes the main-source of
livelihood in the region. Its not even surprising when two crops a year become the
norm rather than the exception. Even the farmers have become bold enough to take
up dryland farming despite the reasonable risks associated with the same. Also the

major crops found on this part of the region are wheat, maize, sugarcane, cotton,
millets and oilseeds.