This study examines the spatial relationship between irrigation efficiency and cropping intensity in the Santhal Pargana Division of Jharkhand, a predominantly rain-dependent plateau region characterized by undulating terrain, lateritic soils, and limited irrigation infrastructure. Using district-level secondary data on net sown area, gross cropped area, and gross irrigated area obtained from the Directorate of Economics & Statistics, Jharkhand, Agricultural Census, Jharkhand Economic Survey. The study quantifies cropping intensity and irrigation efficiency for six districts i.e., Dumka, Deoghar, Godda, Jamtara, Pakur, and Sahibganj. The analysis employs descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation coefficient, simple linear regression to assess inter-district variations and the strength of the irrigation–cropping relationship. The results reveal significant spatial disparities across the division, with Deoghar and Sahibganj emerging as high-performing districts exhibiting relatively higher irrigation efficiency and cropping intensity, while Pakur and Jamtara lag behind due to poor irrigation infrastructure and adverse physical conditions. The correlation analysis confirms a strong positive association between irrigation efficiency and cropping intensity, indicating that districts with better-managed irrigation systems achieve greater agricultural intensification. The study concludes that improving irrigation efficiency rather than merely expanding irrigated area is crucial for enhancing cropping intensity, reducing regional disparities, and promoting sustainable agricultural development in the Santhal Pargana Division under conditions of climatic uncertainty and water scarcity.