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

Abstract 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.