Application of genetic algorithm to determine optimal cropping pattern

Optimal cropping pattern plays an important role in improving the agricultural economy. This paper explores the potential of applying the Genetic-Algorithms to the non-linear formulation of the optimal cropping pattern problem. A practical problem using the agricultural data of the Batadrava development block of Nagaon district of Assam, India, is solved to demonstrate the application of Genetic-Algorithms. GA, which is a population-based search technique, has been found to be quite efficient in deciding optimal cropping pattern considering the various constraints and complexities representing the real situation. An analysis is also made to suggest suitable GA parameters for the problem.