The Tribal Tales

2.2.9 Crops
Agricultural activities are majorly dependent on rains. Due to very less rainfall,
the seasonal vegetation includes a few grass species, dwarf trees and
shrubs. Kharif is the major crop (Bajra, Moong, Moth, Sesame, Jowar and
Cotton). Rabi crop (Wheat, Barley, Gram, Mustard, Raida, Taramira, etc) is
majorly cultivated in Bilara, Bhopalgarh and Osian Tehsils only. Jodhpur
is well known for its red chilli, onion and garlic. It is the major production
centres for Guar. Due to scarcity of irrigational facilities, only 15% of the
cultivable land is sowed.
2.2.10 Rivers and Water resources
There is no perennial river in the district. However, important rivers in the
district are Luni river and Mithri River, though their base is saline water.
Balsamand Jheel is in the north of Jodhpur. Kailana Tank and Ummed Sagar
are also the water reservoirs. There are two natural springs – Beri Ganga
and Ban Ganga. Besides, a few important tanks are – Soorpura and Golejor
bandhs, Pichiyak (Jaswant Sagar) and Birai Tank that are maintained by the
irrigation department. Main source of irrigation besides rainwater are dugwells
and tube-wells.
2.14
2.2.11 Flora and Fauna
The flora and fauna in Rajasthan are specifically endemic to the dry region.
They are adapted to survive in Rajasthan’s waterless and arid region. Forest
area is available around the hills and is classified as scrub thorn forest. The
forest vegetation includes grasses, shrubs and thorny trees. The commonly
found tree species are bamboo, khejri, teak and varied species of acacia.
The main species of trees are Kumat, Kair, Khejri, Babul, Bir, Jal khara,
Pilu, etc. Fruit bearing trees are pomegranates and guavas. Due to sandy
soil and dry climate, only shrubs and thorny bushes of vegetation are found
in the forest area.
2.15
(Fig 2.14)
A scene from the nearby
village of Jodhpur.
(Fig. 2.15)
Cattle roaming in the city of
Jodhpur.
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