Agriculture Information : Geospatial Technology For Estimation Of Natural Rubber by NRSC

India produces almost enough natural rubber to meet its entire industrial requirement. Presently, the production of NR and its consumption almost match in the country, but in future it may be not balanced.

The satellite data analysis consisted of data preparation, ortho-rectification, image fusion, data normalization, NDVI generation, digital classification, visual interpretation, accuracy assessment and acreage estimation.

Temporal LISS-III images were acquired at different periods under variable atmospheric conditions, solar illumination and view angles and thus, require radiometric normalization to remove radiometric distortions and make the images comparable.

Initially the digital numbers were converted to Top of the Atmospheric radiance (TOA) and subsequently, relative radiometric normalization was carried out using Pseudo-Invariant Features (PIF).PIF corrected images were used for generating of NDVI. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is a numerical indicator that uses the reflectance in red and near-infrared bands of the electromagnetic spectrum which is sensitive to vegetation cover, vigour, biomass and condition.

Temporal NDVI generated using Resourcesat-1 LISS-III data were used in hierarchical decision rule based classification for delineation of natural rubber plantations.

Satellite data acquisition period in relation to tree phonological stages plays a critical role in spectral discrimination of NR plantations from other vegetation types. Similarly, natural rubber showed typical NDVI profile was coinciding with the tree phenology.

FCC of LISS-III data along with the classified data showing spatial distribution of natural rubber in Tripura state.

Source:http://www.nrsc.gov.in/