Subject: Environment & Ecology/Agriculture

The Integrated Farming System (IFS) represents a holistic approach to agriculture where multiple farming components like crops, livestock, and fisheries are integrated to maximize productivity through optimal resource utilization and bio-waste recycling. In India, where 86% of farmers are small and marginal, IFS has emerged as a sustainable solution for enhancing farm income and ensuring food security.

Components of Integrated Farming System

• Crop Integration: Implementation of multiple cropping patterns including intercropping and crop rotation to ensure year-round income generation.
• Livestock Integration: Integration of dairy, poultry, and small ruminants providing additional income streams through milk, meat, and eggs.
• Resource Recycling: Efficient utilization of farm by-products where crop residues serve as animal feed and animal waste as organic manure.
• Water Management: Implementation of water conservation techniques through Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) for optimal water utilization.

Benefits for Small and Marginal Farmers

• Enhanced Income Generation:

  • Studies from Uttar Pradesh demonstrate net return increase from Rs. 0.6 lakh to Rs. 2.20 lakhs per hectare through crop-dairy integration.
  • A case study from Telangana shows achievement of Rs. 4,02,371 per season through agriculture-horticulture-floriculture integration.

• Risk Mitigation:

  • Diversification of income sources reduces dependency on single crop/enterprise.
  • Enhanced resilience against climate variability and market fluctuations.

• Resource Optimization:

  • Reduced input costs through bio-waste recycling and natural resource conservation.
  • Implementation of Rainfed Area Development Programme (RADP) supporting sustainable farming practices.

• Government Support:

  • PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana promoting sustainable farming practices in 100 low-productivity districts.
  • Integration with Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) for enhanced productivity and sustainability.

The success of IFS in transforming small-scale agriculture is evident through numerous case studies across India, particularly exemplified by the Karnataka woman farmer's success in integrating multiple components like sericulture, livestock, and fish farming. This holistic approach not only ensures sustainable agriculture but also contributes to achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 1 (No Poverty).