Integrated farming systems for sustainability in coastal ecosystem

Abstract

The growth rate in agriculture during the recent past is in a very slow pase in spite of the rapid economic growth in our country. The trend in productivity of major crops is either static or declining trend during the X Five- year plan. There is no scope for further increase of net sown area and the present scenario indicated a slight shift of area for other purposes like industrialization and urbanization. To sustain a positive growth rate in agri- culture, a holistic approach is the need of the hour. The goal of sustainable agriculture is to conserve the natu- ral resource base, protect the environment and enhance prosperity for a longer period. Farming systems is a set of agro-economic activities that are interrelated and interact among themselves in a particular agrarian set- ting. In diversified farming, though crop and other enterprises exist, the thrust is mainly to minimize the risk. While in the Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) a judicious mix of one or more enterprises along with cropping has a complimentary effect through effective recycling of wastes and crop residues and encompasses addi- tional source of income to the farmers. IFS activity is focused round a few selected inter-dependent, inter-re- lated and inter-linking production systems, based on crops, animals and related subsidiary professions. It is a rich source of species diversity, helps in soil building, preserve and improve ecological condition essential to long-term sustainability. It also enhances soil nutrient cycling and prevent proliferation of pests. In all the eco- systems, IFS approach with location specific models offer gainful employment and are highly profitable and sustainable. The models developed in the coastal ecosystem of Kerala are discussed. The agronomic, socio- economic and environmental advantages of IFS are vivid and appealing. These are potentially suitable to all cat- egories of farmers.