Rice-Based Integrated Farming System for Sustainable Coastal Agroecosystem of India

Abstract

In comparison to industrial expansion, agriculture growth in recent years has been extremely slow. Future food demand is being impacted by the declining production of primary crops. Due to a modest shift of acreage for other purposes mainly industrialization and urbanization, net sown area in India has slightly declined in last two decades. A holistic approach is urgently required to generate positive growth rates in agriculture, particularly in coastal ecosystems. Sustainable agriculture aims to preserve the basis of natural resources, safeguard the environment, and promote wealth over a longer period. A farming system is a collection of agro-economic activities that interact and are connected in a specific agroecosystem. The term “Integrated Farming Systems” (IFS) refers to a strategic combination of one or more enterprise with crop production that produces complementary results through efficient waste and crop residue recycling and generates extra sources of income for farmers. The interdependent, connected, and interlinking production systems based on crops, animals, and related ancillary professions are what make up the IFS activity. Abundance of species diversity aids in improving soil health especially organic carbon, besides enhances ecological conditions, both of which are necessary for long-term sustainability of production system. Additionally, it inhibits the spread of pests and improves soil nutrient cycling. IFS approach with site-specific models offers gainful employment and is extremely profitable and sustainable in all environments. Along with IFS, other practices that promote fertilizer use efficiency include agroforestry, integrated nutrient management, and soil and water conservation.