Models of Khadin improvement in the western Rajasthan

Abstract

Khadins are a land-use system prevalent in drought prone, rocky catchments and valley plains. They are based on the principle of harvesting rainwater and using this water in saturated land for crop production. It also helps prevent soil deterioration. Khadins are grown for kharif and rabi crops, depending on the amount of water stored in the lower reaches and the level of water in tanks and wells. Sowing is usually done first in the upper reaches, then in the lower reaches as the stored water recedes. Farmers seek drilled wells and bore wells with the help of government authorities wherever the groundwater level is good. Khadins provide consistent income to the farmers every year besides protecting soils from wind and water erosion.