ADOPTION OF INTEGRATED FARMING SYSTEM: A STUDY OF MANDI DISTRICT, HIMACHAL PRADESH
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Date
2023-07-23
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UHF Nauni
Abstract
This study investigates the adoption of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh, India. The objectives of the study were to assess the awareness, perception, and factors influencing the adoption of IFS among farmers. Convenience and snowball sampling techniques were used to reach out sample size of 110 respondents. The study identified varying levels of awareness among farmers regarding different aspects of IFS, such as soil health improvement, government subsidies, and resource recycling. Farmers exhibited high awareness regarding certain integrated farming systems involving crop production and livestock rearing. Positive perceptions were observed towards IFS, with farmers recognizing its potential to increase income and provide balanced nutritious food. Factors influencing farmers' decisions were categorized into production-oriented, situational, financial, market-oriented, and organizational factors. Organizational factors ranked as the most influential factors while situational factors ranked the lowest. Based on the findings, suggestions were provided to promote the adoption of IFS, including enhancing awareness programs, improving financial support mechanisms, supporting small and marginal farmers, strengthening extension services, and strengthening market linkages. These findings can contribute to promoting IFS adoption, sustainable agriculture and improved livelihoods for farmers in the Mandi district.