Constraints experienced by farmers on integrated farming system in Telangana state

Abstract

Agriculture plays a vital role in many rural farm families. Crop alone enterprises may not be sufficient to lead meaningful life. Hence, it is suggested to keep related enterprises of backyard poultry, goat, milching cow, mushroom and other activities as subsidiary which deliver regular income. Considering the multiple activities suitable to various eco systems, the present study was conducted to identify the constraints expressed by farmers in Integrated Farming System. An exploratory research design was employed for the investigation. The total sample size was 180 respondents. Data was collected by using well-structured interview schedule. Data were analysed by using percentage analysis and rank order method. The results of the study revealed that constraints faced by Integrated Farming System (IFS) farmers were categorized into four viz., technological, operational, financial and marketing constraints. Poor knowledge on suitable cropping systems in Integrated Farming System and their interaction (86.67%), lack of knowledge on usage of ICT tools in farming (80.00%) were major technological constraints, Low availability waged labour and Less exposure visits to the successful IFS units (86.67% and 80.00%) were major operational constraints, Non-availability of timely agricultural credit and Lack of an inclusive financial system on IFS unit (80.00% and 76.67%) were major financial constraints, lack of skills and knowledge on online marketing (90.00%), price fluctuations (76.67%) were major marketing constraints experienced by IFS farmers. Adequate training and necessary marketing intervention needs to be facilitated to enhance farmers interest and sustaining the farm enterprises.