Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA)-Based Assessment of Groundwater Level Trends in Khandela Tehsil, Rajasthan (1998–2021)

Groundwater is a significant resource for sustenance. Its significance is amplified in semi-arid regions like Khandela tehsil in Rajasthan, where dominant agricultural activities put a major strain on the groundwater. This study is intended to examine long-term groundwater level trends in Khandela tehsil and compare seasonal variations between pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons across the three groundwater stations—Ladpura, Chokri, and Bamanwas, from 1998 to 2021. The study employs the Innovative Trend Analysis (ITA) method to detect groundwater trends at the three stations across the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Sen’s ITA significance test is used to investigate the reliability of the trend. Findings show significant depletion at Ladpura station, while Chokri and Bamanwas exhibit variable dynamics. Seasonal comparisons suggest that the monsoon has a minimal effect on reversing the depletion trends. The study emphasises the effectiveness of ITA in identifying subtle variations in groundwater, providing valuable information for customised groundwater management approaches in the region. Future studies should broaden data monitoring efforts to overcome data constraints and improve the precision of trend identification.