Cosmos: A Journal of Geography

Assessing Spatio-Temporal Changes in Land Use Patterns and Their Impact on Agricultural Sustainability in Azamgarh District, Uttar Pradesh

Land use and land cover (LULC) changes have profound implications for agricultural sustainability, especially in densely populated regions like Azamgarh District, Uttar Pradesh. This study assesses the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use patterns from 1990 to 2020 and examines their impact on agricultural sustainability. Using remote sensing data, GIS techniques, and agricultural statistics, land use changes were mapped and analyzed across three decades. Results reveal a significant decline in agricultural land due to urban expansion, infrastructure development, and changing socio-economic conditions. Simultaneously, shifts in cropping patterns, soil degradation, and groundwater depletion have emerged as critical concerns affecting the district’s agricultural productivity and environmental health. The study highlights that if current trends continue, agricultural sustainability will face severe challenges, ultimately threatening food security and rural livelihoods. Based on the findings, strategic recommendations for sustainable land management, crop diversification, and policy interventions are proposed to mitigate adverse impacts and promote long-term agricultural resilience in Azamgarh District.