Integrated farming systems for enhancing profitability and sustainability in Southern Transitional Zone (Zone 7) of Karnataka

Abstract

A field investigation was conducted during 2024-25 to characterize predominant farming systems and evaluate their profitability, sustainability and constraints in the Southern Transitional Zone (Zone 7) of Karnataka. Four representative taluks viz., HD Kote, Channagiri, Shikaripura and Arakalgud were selected and 50 farm households were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. The zone receives an average rainfall of 986.4 mm with cropping intensity of 128% and 31% irrigated area. Predominant farming systems identified were agriculture + horticulture + dairy (30%), agriculture + horticulture (28%) and agriculture + horticulture + dairy + poultry (12%). Among different integrated farming systems (IFS), agriculture + horticulture recorded the highest benefit:cost (B:C) ratio of 3.92 followed by agriculture + sericulture + horticulture + livestock (3.53). Major constraints included high cost of inputs, labour scarcity and limited access to quality seed and technical guidance. Diversification through livestock, sericulture and beekeeping enhanced farm income by 15-45%. Strengthening research-extension linkages and improving input accessibility are critical for sustainable intensification in the region.