Assessment of area favourable for crop sowing using AMSR-E derived Soil Moisture Index (AMSR-E SMI)

Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer-Earth Observing System (AMSR-E) soil moisture product was used to assess the progression of Area Favourable for Crop Sowing (AFCS) over Andhra Pradesh State of India during summer monsoon. The AMSR-E soil moisture data were normalized with respect to soil texture to calculate AMSR-E Soil Moisture Index (AMSR-E SMI). The index had significant correlation (r value 0.7–0.8) with the amount of rainfall during early monsoon period. Progression of soil wetness condition was mapped week-wise by thresholding the AMSR-E SMI. Logical criteria were developed based on the surface soil moisture content, its persistence and the type of crop to classify AFCS. The estimated AFCS was found to have significant correlation (r = 0.92 and root mean square error = 0.66) with the reported official sown area by Directorate of Economics & Statistics, Govt. of Andhra Pradesh. The study demonstrated the potential use of AMSR-E SMI for assessment of agricultural drought during early monsoon season at regional level.

► AMSR-E Soil Moisture Index (AMSR-E SMI) is proposed using AMSR-E soil moisture and soil texture information.
► The index could represent progression of soil moisture stress irrespective of soil textural background.
► AMSR-E SMI has statistically significant correlation with rainfall.
► Logical criteria were developed based on the AMSR-E SMI, its persistence and the type of crop to classify Area Favourable for Crop Sowing (AFCS).
► The estimated AFCS had significant correlation with actual sown area.