ANNOUNCEMENTS
The research provides an in depth examination of environmental dynamics and land use alterations in Rajasthan, a state known for its distinctive ecological traits and susceptibility to desertification. With Rajasthan as its focal point, the study takes a comprehensive approach to understanding the intricate interplay of environmental elements that drive desertification processes in the state. The inquiry begins by analysing important environmental metrics during a seven year period, including the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Normalised Difference Water Index (NDWI), Temperature Greenness Stress Index (TGSI), and albedo. Through meticulous assessment and interpretation of these indices, the study reveals subtle variations in vegetation density, water availability, and surface properties at various temporal and spatial scales, providing critical insights into Rajasthan's ecological health and resilience. Building on this foundation, the study uses advanced land use/land cover (LULC) mapping tools to reveal the developing spatial patterns of land use change in Rajasthan from 2000 to 2023. Notably, the LULC study results show a significant increase in desertification areas within the state, indicating the growing influence of aridification processes. This observable trend highlights the critical need for concerted measures to mitigate desertification and maintain ecological balance, particularly in desertification prone parts of Rajasthan. Furthermore, a thorough assessment of index area coverage confirms the increasing incidence of desertification problems throughout Rajasthan. The observed loss in plant cover and surface conditions are alarming indicators of environmental degradation, needing aggressive intervention and long term land management activities. This improved understanding of desertification dynamics and their implications for Rajasthan's landscape emphasises the importance of informed policymaking and community engagement in protecting the state's natural resources and fostering resilient ecosystems in the face of ongoing environmental challenges. Finally, the study calls for holistic responses to desertification, highlighting the necessity of interdisciplinary collaboration and adaptive management solutions tailored to Rajasthan's specific environmental situation.
Keywords: Desertification , Albedo , Top soil Grain Size , Normalized Vegetation Index , Land Use Land Cover , Land Degredation.
