Geospatial technologies to map Rice area, yield, and DSR suitable ecologies

Key Features & Benefits

• High-resolution mapping of rice-growing areas using satellite data.
• Yield estimation models developed through remote sensing and ground-truth data.
• DSR suitability mapping based on soil, climate, and irrigation data.
• Decision support systems for policymakers and farmers.
• Enhanced resource use efficiency by identifying spatial entry points for intervention.
• Data-driven prioritization of areas for scaling DSR and climate-smart agriculture.
• Supports climate resilience by identifying ecologies prone to abiotic stresses.

Where It Works and Where It Can Work

• Currently implemented in South Asia, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
• Applicable across diverse agroecologies—irrigated, rainfed, and stress-prone regions.
• Potential for expansion to any other rice-producing geographies due to earth observation capabilities

Evidence & Impact

• Rice area and yield maps successfully developed and validated in multiple geographies.
• Used to identify impact zones of abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, cyclone) and inform response strategies.
• In Odisha, India, DSR suitability maps led to successful prioritization and trials of DSR technologies.
• Data products shared with state and central government agencies to support strategic agricultural planning.
• Contributed to improved targeting of interventions and increased adoption of sustainable rice practices.

Scalability & Adoption Support

• Low-cost and adaptable, using freely available or low-cost satellite data.
• Published in peer-reviewed journals, ensuring scientific credibility.
• Successfully adopted by partners such as TNAU and state-level agencies.
• Ready for scaling with support from donors, governments, and private sector partners.

Contact Information & Partners