Introduction:
The ratio of gross cropped area to the net sown area is called cropping intensity. It is an important measure that helps in understanding the level of agricultural activity in a particular region. Cropping intensity provides insights into the efficiency of land utilization and the productivity of crops.

Explanation:
Cropping intensity is calculated by dividing the gross cropped area by the net sown area. Let's understand each term in detail:

1. Gross cropped area: It refers to the total area of land on which crops are cultivated during a particular agricultural year. This includes the area under all types of crops, including both main crops and multiple crops grown in a year.

2. Net sown area: It represents the total area of land on which crops are actually sown. It excludes the area under fallow land, land under non-agricultural uses, and land used for grazing. Net sown area is the actual land available for crop cultivation.

Importance of Cropping Intensity:
Cropping intensity is an important indicator for assessing the agricultural productivity and sustainability of a region. It provides valuable information about the utilization of available land resources for crop production. Here are a few key points highlighting the importance of cropping intensity:

1. Agricultural productivity: Cropping intensity helps in determining the overall productivity of agricultural land. A higher cropping intensity indicates that a larger proportion of available land is being utilized for crop cultivation, leading to increased agricultural output.

2. Land utilization efficiency: By calculating cropping intensity, we can evaluate the efficiency with which land resources are being utilized for crop production. It helps in identifying areas where land is being underutilized or overutilized, and appropriate measures can be taken accordingly.

3. Crop diversification: Cropping intensity also provides insights into the diversity of crops grown in a region. Higher cropping intensity often indicates a greater variety of crops being cultivated, which can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.

4. Food security: Understanding cropping intensity is crucial for assessing the food security of a region. Higher cropping intensity means a larger area under cultivation, which can lead to increased food production and availability.

Conclusion:
Cropping intensity is an important measure that helps in evaluating the utilization of land resources for agricultural purposes. It provides valuable insights into the productivity, efficiency, and diversity of crop cultivation in a particular region. By calculating cropping intensity, policymakers, researchers, and farmers can make informed decisions to improve agricultural practices and ensure sustainable food production.