: A survey was conducted during the pre-monsoon season of the year 2021 in the Upper Banas River Basin to map the spatial variability of soil properties using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques. The study area covered various tehsils in the Rajasthan state, India. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), soil organic carbon (SOC), calcium carbonate (CaCO3), available nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and sulfur (S) content. The results indicated that the soil in the area was neutral to slightly alkaline in reaction, with low salinity levels. The majority of soils had sufficient organic carbon, medium to high calcium carbonate content, and medium levels of available nitrogen and phosphorus. Available potassium was generally at a medium level, while available sulfur was low in most areas. The generated soil fertility maps can be valuable tools for optimizing nutrient management and promoting sustainable farming practices in the region. These findings provide essential insights for precision agriculture, allowing farmers to tailor their nutrient application strategies based on specific soil conditions. By leveraging GIS technology and the comprehensive soil fertility maps, stakeholders can make informed decisions to enhance crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts.

Soil properties, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Upper Banas River Basin, pre-monsoon season, nutrient management

In the context of the Upper Banas River Basin, the predominant soil reactions were found to be neutral to slightly alkaline. The collected soil samples consistently displayed an electrical conductivity (EC) reading of less than 2 dS m-1, suggesting the absence of significant salinity concerns across the area. Within this framework, the organic carbon content of the majority of soils was determined to be satisfactory. Calcium carbonate levels ranged from medium to high, indicating a notable presence. Available nitrogen and phosphorus content generally exhibited low to medium concentrations, while available potassium content was more evenly distributed within a medium range. The available sulfur content, however, tended to be comparatively low. The generated soil maps offer practical utility by delineating cohesive soil units, thereby assisting farmers in making informed decisions regarding the appropriate type and quantity of macro-nutrients to apply. This targeted approach aims to optimize economic outcomes by tailoring nutrient management strategies to the unique demands of each specific location. The incorporation of geo-referenced sampling sites using GPS technology enables recurrent visits to monitor shifts in nutrient status over time. This innovative methodology surpasses the limitations of conventional sampling techniques, providing a robust and accurate assessment of nutrient dynamics in the region.

Kishan Damor, K. K. Yadav, Bharti Yadav, Shalini Sharma, Yash Vardhan Singh, Kriti Sharma and Yuvraj Singh Chundawat (2023). Spatial Variability Mapping of Soil Properties in the Upper Banas River Basin using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Techniques. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(8): 255-262.