Livelihoods Of Farmers Research Articles

Sustaining livelihoods and building resilience: Policy implications for the Lower Mekong Basin

The diverse agricultural landscape in the Lower Mekong Basin (LMB) encompasses vulnerable smallholder farmers, whose livelihoods are exposed to the impacts of natural hazards, environmental degradation and climate change. This paper aims to understand the vulnerability and risk drivers to agricultural livelihoods in the LMB and the existing capacities, policies and strategies to strengthen livelihoods. The inherent capacities (capitals) of these communities have helped them withstand and cope with the impacts of natural and anthropogenic stressors on their livelihoods. Skills, training and indigenous knowledge complemented by social networks and co-operatives are crucial to human and social capital. Similarly, water management, irrigation infrastructure, and demarcation and protection of natural resources have helped reduce potential impacts on agricultural activities and outputs. These are supported through financial instruments such as grants, subsidies and loans. On the other hand, while extant policies and strategies in LMB countries acknowledge the vital role of agriculture in socioeconomic development, the utilisation of robust assessment frameworks pertaining to livelihood resilience is limited. This paper discusses the potential advantages of incorporating integrated livelihood resilience assessments in current policies, which can help in designing context-specific strategies and optimise resource allocation for sustainable livelihood development in the LMB. However, to ensure robust assessments, stakeholders must harmonise assessment frameworks, promote community engagement, enhance data availability and strengthen institutional collaboration.

Role of Social Forestry Programme in the Livelihoods of Farmers in Thanjavur District, India

Social forestry programs have been implemented to restore ecological balance, improve livelihoods, and enhance the overall well-being of rural communities. This study aimed to assess the impact and social benefits of the social forestry program in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu. A survey of 150 farmers was conducted in Orathanadu and Thanjavur blocks to gather data on socio-economic characteristics and perceived social benefits of the program. Data was collected through structured interviews and focus group discussions with farmers. Mean and simple percentage analysis were used to analyze the quantitative data. The findings revealed that the majority of respondents were middle-aged farmers with medium to high levels of education and economic status. Most farmers had a positive attitude towards the program and perceived it as a valuable source of additional income and environmental benefits. The study also highlighted the importance of extension services in facilitating the adoption of social forestry practices. The social forestry program in Thanjavur district has contributed to increased access to fuelwood, fodder, and timber, improved soil and water conservation, and enhanced biodiversity. To maximize the benefits of social forestry, it is essential to strengthen extension services, provide financial incentives, and promote community participation. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities, social forestry can play a crucial role in sustainable development and environmental conservation in the region.

Unlocking Dairy Potential in Dry Zones: Analyzing Constraints and Opportunities in Mahaweli System H, Eppawala Block

Dairy farming is a cornerstone of agricultural livelihoods in Sri Lanka's Mahaweli System H, particularly in the Eppawala Block. This study investigates the socio-economic profiles, management practices, and challenges faced by 250 dairy farmers in this region, where crop and livestock production are vital for poverty alleviation. While Eppawala contributes about 7.1% of the national milk output, farmers encounter significant barriers such as high production costs, limited grazing lands, inconsistent water availability, and inadequate marketing infrastructure. The survey revealed that dairy farming is predominantly a supplementary income source, with only a minority earning over Rs. 50,000 monthly through entrepreneurial practices. Key constraints include escalating feed costs, poor access to quality breeding stock, and limited youth involvement. Furthermore, insufficient veterinary care, credit facilities, and milk collection networks exacerbate these challenges. Despite these issues, the findings highlight the potential for targeted interventions to unlock growth. Enhancing resource access, promoting sustainable feed and fodder practices, and strengthening capacity-building initiatives are critical steps. Strategies such as improved pasture management, incentivizing local dairy processing, and creating efficient market linkages could transform the sector. These adaptive measures, supported by robust policies, are essential to transition dairy farming from subsistence to a market-oriented industry. This study underscores the importance of addressing socio-economic and infrastructural constraints to bolster rural livelihoods, enhance national milk self-sufficiency, and harness the untapped potential of dairy farming in dry zone agriculture.

Farmer Perceptions of GIAHS: Analyzing Farmer Involvement and GIAHS Benefits in the Ifugao Rice Terraces

The Ifugao Rice Terraces have been the Philippines’ first and only Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) since 2011. More than a decade later, this study assesses whether Ifugao farmers find this designation beneficial and if it enhances their sense of involvement. Through a cross-sectional survey of GIAHS farmers in Banaue, Ifugao, this study examines perceived benefits and involvement, along with views on youth participation in agriculture, farmer livelihoods, and tourism management in Ifugao. The findings reveal that 65.1% of farmers see the GIAHS designation as beneficial and 58.7% feel involved. Farmers who perceive limited tourism benefits from the GIAHS are more likely to feel uninvolved, while those who value the designation’s potential for improving income and consumer demand for Ifugao rice report higher involvement. Cultural heritage and ancestral values are significant motivators, with some farmers viewing the GIAHS as a means of preserving traditions. Support from local government, subsidies, and media enhances involvement, particularly among those practicing rituals or growing the traditional Tinawon rice, which strengthens ties to the GIAHS. Additionally, farmers involved in discussions or training on Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) report a stronger connection to the GIAHS, as ECA practices align with their traditional, sustainable approaches. Overall, this study highlights the complex role of the GIAHS as a bridge between cultural heritage, livelihood, and sustainability, underscoring the need to integrate farmer perspectives more closely into GIAHS initiatives in Ifugao.

Enhancing Indigenous Cropping Systems under Climate Change: A Case Study of Maize (Zea mays L.) and Groundnut (Arachis hypogea) in Northern Ghana

Due to the continuous cropping of maize and groundnuts on the same land in northern Ghana for livelihood, production yields have declined significantly below potential levels. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ecological limitations affecting maize and groundnut productivity in northern Ghana and also to analyze the socioeconomic constraints impacting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Five cropping systems (viz. sole continuous maize (SCM), sole continuous groundnut (SCG), maize-groundnut intercrop (MGI), groundnut/maize rotation (GMR) and maize/groundnut rotation (MGR)), each with or without fertilizer were established under RCBD at Nyankpala during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons. For the fertilized rotation treatments, the maize crop received 60-N, 40-P2O5, and 40-K2O, kg/ha, while the groundnut crop received 20-N, 40-P2O5, and 40-K2O, kg/ha using NPK 11, 22, 21, kg/ha with trace elements S, Zn and B. The cropping systems were characterised on grain yields, yield related parameters, resource use and economic returns on investments. The results showed that intercrop and rotation treatments gave better yields. Their land equivalent ratios (LER) were 1.2 and 1.09 respectively, in the two seasons. Maize grain yield under the rotation increased from 2.5 to 3.8 t/ha while groundnut pod yield increased from 0.6 to 0.9 t/ha. The system with highest economic returns was recorded for the rotation systems either with or without fertilizer application. To improve livelihoods and productivity, smallholder farmers in northern Ghana should adopt intercrop and rotation systems, incorporate fertilizer application, and consider soil fertility management practices. Policy support and extension services can facilitate the adoption of these sustainable agricultural practices.

Exploring the distribution and abundance of groundnut sucking bug (offa) [Rhyparochromus littoralis Dist] across major groundnut-producing regions in North-Eastern Nigeria

A multi-locational survey was conducted across Adamawa, Gombe, and Taraba States during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons to assess pest dynamics and their impact on groundnut production. This research delves into the intricate dynamics of groundnut pest management, focusing on the prevalence, abundance, and diversity of Rhyparochromus littoralis, a significant insect pest in groundnut cultivation, in the study area. Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) serves as a vital cash crop in Nigeria, contributing substantially to the economy and livelihoods of many farmers. However, the presence of insect pests such as R. littoralis poses a considerable threat to groundnut production, warranting comprehensive studies to elucidate their behaviour, impact, and management strategies. The study meticulously examines the seasonal and spatiotemporal dynamics of R. littoralis within the major groundnut-producing areas, shedding light on its prolific nature characterized by rapid reproduction and high population densities. Through rigorous surveys and data analysis, R. littoralis emerges as a formidable adversary, establishing its status as a major insect pest in the Northeast geo-political zone. The survey conducted on the abundance of the groundnut-sucking bug, Rhyporachromus litoralis Dist, in Adamawa State during the 2021 and 2022 cropping seasons reveals several noteworthy findings. The abundance of R. litoralis varied across different locations and cropping seasons. In 2021, the insect abundance ranged from 2075.67 to 2578.83 across different locations, whereas in 2022, the abundance ranged from 2075.00 to 2677.58. Statistical analysis indicates a significant difference in insect abundance between the two years, with p-values less than 0.0001 for both years, highlighting the reliability of these differences. In this study, the presence of the groundnut-sucking bug in groundnut fields was reported in early September in Gombe, while in Adamawa it was in late September but in Taraba, it was in Late October. By shedding light on the complex interactions within the groundnut ecosystem, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of pest dynamics and underscores the importance of coordinated strategies to safeguard groundnut production in Nigeria's Northeastern region

The Role of Psychological Capital on Climate Change Adaptation Among Smallholder Farmers in the uMkhanyakude District of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Climate change and variability pose a challenge to the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Previous studies on climate change in the context of smallholder farming have mainly focused on the influence of socio-economic factors in understanding farmers’ responses to climate change. However, little is known about the effect of psychological capital on climate change adaptation. There are calls for better empirical models and transdisciplinary approaches to understand the underlying drivers of climate change adaptation in smallholder farming systems. This study draws from behavioural decision research to assess psychological factors influencing climate change adaptation in the uMkhanyakude district of KwaZulu-Natal. This study adopted the Theory of Planned Behaviour to understand the effect of psychological capital on climate change adaptation. Data were collected from a sample of 400 smallholder farmers who were randomly selected from the uMkhanyakude district. Survey data were analysed using a multivariate probit regression model. The results of the multivariate probit regression model indicated that psychological capital (attitudes towards climate change, subjective norms, and trust) played an important role in influencing climate change adaptation. Climate change adaptation is also influenced by the gender of the farmer, education level, household size, and Tropical Livestock Units. These findings underscore the role of psychological capital in shaping climate change adaptation. This study recommends using transdisciplinary approaches (i.e., combining economics and psychology) in evaluating farmers’ responses to climate change.

Agro-extractivism and shifting smallholder dynamics: evidence from Kashmir, India

ABSTRACT Research on agrarian extractivism has rapidly expanded, encompassing diverse empirical investigations and conceptual frameworks. This paper centers its examination on agrarian commercialization in the Himalayan region of Kashmir, analyzing the intricacies of this theoretical framework. We explore agrarian extractivism through an empirical lens, investigating its relation to smallholder farming development and the role of the state within Kashmir's unique conflict setting, which influences both agricultural practices and the livelihoods of farmers. We argue that the rise of agricultural commercialization, driven by export-oriented apple monoculture and resource-intensive practices, presents a set of multifaceted challenges. Our empirical model uses a regression with an endogenous treatment effect to evaluate the impact of state-promoted extension services on smallholder farm incomes. Our findings reveal that while agro-extractivism increases land use and value extraction, it does not lead to substantial income growth for smallholders. Instead, it contributes to their marginalization and displacement in the region. Furthermore, we argue that the state strategically promotes agrarian extractivism to consolidate power and sovereignty while seeking to maintain legitimacy. Thus, creating an effective agrarian transition necessitates addressing the participation and rights of smallholder farmers rather than merely facilitating the extractivist tendencies of the dominant neoliberal agricultural development models.

Climate-smart agriculture in India: Greenhouse gas mitigation strategies

This review paper examines Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) as a crucial approach to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions from India's agriculture sector. It analyzes various CSA practices implemented in India, focusing on their effectiveness in reducing emissions while enhancing food security and farmer livelihoods. The paper explores crop management techniques like improved varieties, nutrient management, and water management, alongside soil management practices such as conservation agriculture and agroforestry. Additionally, it delves into livestock management strategies, including improved feeding practices and manure management. The review highlights the role of government policies and programs in promoting CSA adoption, such as the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture and the Parampara at Krishi Vikas Yojana. Challenges hindering wider CSA adoption, including financial constraints, lack of awareness, and data gaps, are discussed. The paper concludes by emphasizing the need to address these challenges and leverage opportunities like strengthening extension services, promoting farmer-to-farmer learning, and utilizing technology to unlock the full potential of CSA in India.

Impact of Village Savings and Loans Associations Participation on Cocoa Farmers’ Livelihood in the Western North Region, Ghana

The study examined the impact of Village Savings and Loans Associations (VSLA) participation on cocoa farmers livelihoods in the Western North region of Ghana. The study analyzes the factors that influence VSLA participation and the intensity of savings. The sample size for the study was 301. The Heckman two-stage model was used to analyze the factors that influence VSLA participation and the intensity of savings. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was used to examine the impact of VSLA participation on cocoa farmers livelihoods. The results demonstrated a positive and statistically significant relationship between VSLA participation and the following variables: age, gender, household size, education, children’s education, and social contributions. However, variables such as respect, income, and gender had a negative influence on VSLA participation. The result also established a positive and significant relationship among extension contact, respect, income, and intensity of savings. VSLA participation had a negative impact on natural capital (land size), a positive impact on human capital (children’s capital) and on financial capital (total income), and no impact on social capital (community social distributions) and physical capital (home assets). Policy makers should therefore consider these factors or attributes of beneficiaries in the development and implementation of future interventions. It is recommended that government of Ghana through Ghana COCOBOD should implement policies that intensify sensitization and education on need for farmers to participate in VSLAs. Additionally, policies that support community-building activities such as VSLAs, can be implemented to foster community engagement and build social capital in cocoa growing communities.

Climate variability and its long-term trends in central Taraba, Nigeria: implications for local ecosystems and rural livelihoods

This study examines the long-term trends of climate variability in Central Taraba, Nigeria, with a focus on analyzing temperature and rainfall patterns from 1980 to 2020. Central Taraba has witnessed notable shifts in climate patterns, characterized by increasing temperatures, erratic rainfall, and prolonged periods of drought and excessive rainfall. These climatic changes pose significant threats to local ecosystems and rural livelihoods, which rely heavily on rain-fed agriculture and natural resources. The research highlights significant fluctuations in both rainfall and temperature, underscoring the challenges posed by climate variability to the region’s ecological and socio-economic systems. The primary objectives of this study are to examine the extent of climate variability on key ecosystem services, assess its impacts on local livelihoods, and identify sustainable management strategies to address these effects. Results show a clear upward trend in both minimum and maximum temperatures across the study area, with some towns experiencing more pronounced increases in minimum temperatures. Rainfall patterns reveal an erratic trend with periods of both drought and excessive rainfall, though a slight but statistically insignificant downward trend in rainfall was observed in most towns. These climatic shifts have profound implications for agriculture, water resources, and rural livelihoods, as communities in the region heavily depend on rain-fed farming and natural ecosystems for sustenance. The study also underscores the pressing need for adaptive strategies such as climate-resilient agriculture and improved water resource management to mitigate the adverse effects of climate variability. Recommendations emphasize strengthening community resilience and integrating climate data into regional development policies to safeguard local livelihoods and ecosystems from future climate-related risks.

Agricultural Sci-Tech Innovation Assistance for Food Security and Sustainability to Taal Volcano’s Internally Displaced Population in Batangas

On 12 January 2020, the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised Alert Level from 1 to 4 (out of 5) after increasing activity of Taal Volcano in Batangas. The eruption has resulted in development challenges and problems such as increased poverty, limited livelihood opportunities faced by farmers which manifest the serious impact of the eruption on the ways of living and the livelihood activities. Thus, this project formulated in which a series of workshop and training skills where conducted to assess, develop and implement an action plan for rehabilitating the farm of the affected residents of Batangas, primarily at the municipality of Talisay, Balete, San Nicolas, Laurel, Agoncillo, and Ibaan. The participants were chosen by the Local Government Unit and composed mostly of members of 4P’s and farmers. The beneficiaries were already in a difficult situation not only because of the recent eruption of Taal Volcano that rendered some of them homeless and unemployed but also because of the COVID-19 which aggravated the situation. Based on the initial assessment, it was found out that agricultural livelihood and property were heavily damaged by the eruption. Moreover, the said assessment led the project team to identify initial livelihood training’s that can be introduced to the affected communities. These trainings’ included household opportunities through vegetable production, processing and organic concoction production to rehabilitate the soil from acidity due to sulfur deposition during volcanic eruption. Rehabilitation and recovery plan were also considered to capacitate the farmers.

Effect of Vertical Diversification on Sustainable Livelihoods among Fish Farmers in Kakamega County, Kenya

This study examined the effect of vertical diversification on sustainable livelihoods among fish farmers. The study employs descriptive and survey research designs to collect data from 350 randomly selected fish farmers across the 12 sub-counties in Kakamega County, Kenya. Findings indicate that vertical diversification, through value addition, processing, and packaging, significantly impacts sustainable livelihoods. The results demonstrate that vertical diversification contributes to income gains, physical asset accumulation and social capital growth. The study concludes that fostering vertical diversification strategies, improving access to financial services and promoting cooperative farming models can significantly enhance the livelihoods of fish farmers. These findings underscore the need for policy interventions to support rural economic diversification. The study further recommends improvement of farmers’ access to financial services as well as promotion of cooperative farming for better outcomes.

Challenges in Sesame Production and Marketing: Insights from Kerala's Onattukara Region, India

Sesame is one of the nine major oilseeds grown in India, with cultivation spread across every state. Although sesame is grown in 11 districts in Kerala, the sesame cultivated in the Onattukara tract has unique characteristics. In Kerala, sesame is cultivated on 326.51 hectares, with a total production of 163.1 tonnes and a productivity rate of 499 kg per hectare. This study aims to analyze the challenges faced by farmers in the production and marketing of sesame in the Onattukara region of Kerala. The districts of Alappuzha, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam were purposively selected for the study, as the Onattukara region is located within these three districts. A total of 163 farmers were included in the sample, comprising eighty farmers each from Kollam and Alappuzha districts and three farmers from Pathanamthitta. Constraints faced by farmers in sesame cultivation were ranked using the Garrett ranking technique. Sesame cultivation in the Onattukara region faces various challenges in both production and marketing, such as inadequate seed availability, high input costs, low yields, labor shortages, low prices, weather-related issues, price fluctuations, delayed payments, low demand for the final product, and the lack of institutional market mechanism. Similarly, sesame processing unit owners also encounter issues in production and marketing, including raw material shortages, a lack of skilled labor, poor raw material quality, costly production methods, lack of support, low product prices, price volatility, inadequate storage facilities, inefficient markets for final products, and limited consumer awareness. A micro-level study on sesame production and marketing would help producers make informed and specific decisions to improve their income. These insights can guide producers in making informed decisions and assist policymakers in implementing corrective measures like resource allocation for inputs, training and capacity building, improving market linkages to enhance sesame production, productivity, and market stability. These interventions, grounded in micro-level data, could substantially support both short-term gains and long-term sustainability in sesame production, demonstrating the practical utility of the research in enhancing both farmers livelihoods and local agricultural policy.

Livelihood vulnerability assessment among the agrarian indigenous communities of Sundarban Biosphere Reserve in India for building resilience and adaptation.

Indian Sundarban Biosphere Reserve (ISBR) is a vulnerable Southeast Asian region. The negative effects of climate change were putting tremendous pressure on this region. However, a dearth of literature focused on the vulnerability and adaptation to climate change among the tribal agrarian community in ISBR. Against this backdrop, this study aims to ascertain different tribal community's perceptions of vulnerability and adaptation preferences through a mixed-method approach and measure the determinants of agricultural livelihood vulnerability. Using a multi-stage random sampling technique and with the help of a pre-structured survey schedule in ISBR, this study involved 300 randomly selected respondents in the interview and focus group discussion. This study applied the IPCC framework to evaluate the integrated livelihood vulnerability to climate change in the ISBR. This study measured the determinant factors underlying vulnerability using ordered probit regression and focus group discussions. This study measures vulnerability as a function of adaptive capacity, sensitivity, and exposure. For the integrated livelihood vulnerability index, 44 indicators under 9 main categories were chosen. 36.52% of rural livelihoods in the southern and southeastern part of Indian SBR were highly vulnerable due to high exposure to flood, riverbank erosion, frequent cyclone, high sensitivity to inadequate access to basic amenities, and low adaptive capacities due to poor livelihood security and poor socio-economic condition. On the other hand, the northern portion of the region exhibits low to moderate vulnerability because of low exposure, low sensitivity, and strong adaptive capacity. Results suggest that the limited adaptation capacities of the tribal household, such as inadequate infrastructure and low-income opportunities, are the primary reasons for livelihood vulnerabilities. This approach can be applied at different scales in other regions of India and other developing countries.

Assessing the multidimensional impact of community-based cattle feedlot programs in the Eastern Cape, South Africa

Traditional cattle farming in the region faces numerous challenges, including limited market access, inadequate nutrition, and poor herd management, which hinder productivity and the livelihoods of farmers. This research explores whether structured feedlot programs can address these issues by enhancing agricultural productivity and improving farmer livelihoods. The study utilized quantitative data from 250 respondents and regression models to compare changes before and after participation in the feedlot programs. The findings reveal significant improvements in herd dynamics, with average herd size increasing by 40% and calving rates rising from 60 to 80%. Mortality and morbidity rates decreased by 50 and 47%, respectively. Regression analysis showed a positive impact on herd size (β = 20.00, p < 0.001) and a notable reduction in mortality (β = −0.30, p = 0.050). Animal performance also improved, with average daily gain (ADG) increasing by 60% and feed conversion ratio (FCR) improving by 25%. Health status was enhanced, indicated by a 50% reduction in disease incidence and an 80% increase in vaccination coverage. Regression results supported these improvements, showing significant positive effects of feedlot participation on ADG (β = 0.50, p < 0.001) and health status (β = −0.10, p < 0.005). Socio-economic benefits were also substantial, with household income increasing by 67% and new employment opportunities emerging. Food security improved significantly, with 85% of households reporting better access to food, and the average sales price per cattle increased by 50%. Regression analysis indicated strong positive impacts on household income (β = 1,500, p < 0.001) and food security (β = 300, p = 0.010). Factors influencing farmer participation in the feedlot programs included perceived benefits (β = 0.80, p < 0.001), access to training (β = 0.50, p < 0.005), and market access (β = 0.70, p < 0.001), while the cost of participation negatively affected involvement (β = −0.002, p = 0.050). Overall, the study demonstrates that community-based cattle feedlot programs significantly enhance herd dynamics, animal performance, and socio-economic conditions for farmers in the Eastern Cape Province, offering a viable strategy for improving rural livelihoods and agricultural productivity.

Multifaceted Assessment of Agricultural Extension in Conflict Affected Areas of Mindanao, Philippines

Agricultural extension in conflict affected areas has received limited research attention. Yet agricultural extension undertaken within a group–based facilitation framework can have many benefits via livelihood improvement, human and social capital development. In this paper, an extension model adapted for conflict affected areas is briefly described and then assessed from multiple viewpoints – physical, economic, lifestyle, social capital and environmental. This was done in two case study sites in conflict affected areas of Mindanao, Philippines. Major positive physical, economic and lifestyle changes were revealed at both case study sites, as were changes in knowledge, attitude, skills, and aspirations and social capital. Some positive environmental aspects were also noted. Income and savings were up 64 and 108 percent respectively, with those income changes being reflected in additional expenditures on basic items such as food clothing and education. Knowledge, attitudes skills and aspirations (which can be regarded as intermediate steps towards livelihood improvement) all increased substantially. Various social capital indicators were judged to have improved. From an environmental perspective, there were decreases in charcoal production and slash and burn activity. Tree planting and soil fertility increased. Most of these assessment parameters, but especially social capital with its implication for trust and human interaction, are relevant to peace building. With the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law, there is expected to be a strong increase within the Philippines and internationally in funding the promotion of agricultural livelihood activities in Mindanao. The multifaced assessment of benefits is somewhat unique and the resulting quantification of the benefits demonstrates that additional funding and more diverse applications could be warranted.

High Yielding Pest and Disease Tolerance Variety (DHLM-14-1) in Little Millet (Panicum sumetrense. L) Developed through Recombinant Breeding Technology

The little millet variety DHLM-14-1 developed at the Agricultural Research Station (ARS) Hanumanamatti under the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. With a maturation period of 85-90 days, this variety features an erect, tall plant stature ranging from 112 to 130 cm and produces bold, oval-shaped gray grains. DHLM-14-1 stands out for its notable tolerance to shoot fly, exhibiting only a 13.89% incidence compared to 19.15% in the national check JK-8. Its impressive yield performance is evident, yielding 18.42%, 30.58%, and 3.14% more than the national checks OLM-203, JK-8, and KOPLM-53, respectively, making it a beneficial option for millet producers looking for resilient, high-yielding crops. Across trials conducted from 2011 to 2014, DHLM-14-1 showcased exceptional agronomic performance, achieving a mean seed yield of 42.41q/ha, significantly outperforming local check TNAU-63 and national check OLM-203 by 26.63% and 23.75%, respectively. Its consistent yield superiority, with an average of 15.89 q/ha over three years, illustrates the cultivar's adaptability to diverse agro-climatic conditions, surpassing OLM-203 and JK-8 by 18.42% and 30.58%. Recognized during the 29th Annual Group Meeting of the ICAR All India Coordinated Research Project on small millets, DHLM-14-1 has shown strong disease resistance against grain smut, brown spot, and sheath blight, with disease incidences similar to OLM-203 and significantly lower than JK-8. Additionally, its effective resistance to shoot fly underscores its potential to reduce pest damage, reinforcing DHLM-14-1's value as a high-yielding, resilient cultivar that not only enhances sustainable millet production but also supports food security and improves farmer livelihoods across India.

Integrated farming system-A means of improving farmers’ well-being in the wetland ecosystem of Bangladesh

The wetland ecosystem (Haor) experiences recurrent flooding, which disrupts agricultural activities and impacts farmers' livelihoods annually. Addressing these challenges through integrated farming systems (IFSs) such as Crop ​+ ​Livestock ​+ ​Homestead-Agroforestry, Crop ​+ ​Livestock ​+ ​Fish farming, and Livestock ​+ ​Agroforestry is crucial. However, empirical evidence supporting the economic viability of specific IFSs remains limited. This study aimed to fill this gap by assessing the impact of IFSs on farmers' income and livelihoods in Sunamganj district, Bangladesh. Data from 312 participants collected before (2016) and after (2019) the project's intervention were analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Farmers in this region readily adopted diverse IFSs, integrating crop cultivation, livestock rearing, vegetable production, agroforestry, fish farming, and open-water fish catching, ensuring efficient resource utilization across enterprises. Predominantly, farmers adopted the Crop ​+ ​Livestock ​+ ​Homestead–Agroforestry ​+ ​Open water fish catching system, which had a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.40, while the Livestock ​+ ​Homestead–Agroforestry ​+ ​Open water fish catching system demonstrated the highest BCR at 1.58, indicating economic viability. Moreover, the adoption of IFSs led to a statistically significant increase in farming income (p ​< ​0.10), contributing to a notable rise in total income. This adoption also correlated with significant improvements in human and financial capital, indicating a positive transformation in livelihood patterns. Therefore, the findings highlight the potential benefits of IFSs in enhancing farmers' well-being, specifically income and livelihood, and provide valuable insights for policymakers to support the integration of sustainable farming practices in the wetland ecosystem.

Climate change mitigation and adaptation for rice-based farming systems in the Red River Delta, Vietnam

BackgroundRice is a major contributor to anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, primarily methane, and at the same time will be negatively impacted by regional climate changes. Identifying rice management interventions to reduce methane emissions while improving productivity is, therefore, critical for climate change mitigation, adaptation, and food security. However, it can be challenging to conduct multivariate assessments of rice interventions in the field owing to the intensiveness of data collection and/or the challenges in testing long-term changes in meteorological and climate conditions. Process-based modeling, evaluated against site-based data, provides an entry point for evaluating the impacts of climate change on rice systems and assessing the impacts, co-benefits, and trade-offs of interventions under historical and future climate conditions.MethodsWe leverage existing site-based management data to model combined rice yields, methane emissions, and water productivity using a suite of process-based coupled crop-soil model experiments for 83 growing sites across the Red River Delta, Vietnam. We test three rice management interventions with our coupled crop-soil model, characterized by Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) water management and other principles representing the System of Rice Intensification (SRI). Our simulations are forced with historical as well as future climate conditions, represented by five Earth System Models for a high-emission climate scenario centered on the year 2050. We evaluate the efficacy of these interventions for combined climate change mitigation and adaptation under historical and future climate change.ResultsTwo SRI interventions significantly increased yields (one by over 50%) under historical climate conditions while also reducing (or not increasing) methane emissions. These interventions also increase yields under future climate conditions relative to baseline management practices, although climate change decreases absolute yields across all management practices. Generally, where yield improved, so did crop water-use efficiency. However, impacts on methane emissions were mixed across the sites under future climate conditions. Two of the interventions resulted in increased methane emissions, depending on the baseline management point of comparison. Nevertheless, one intervention reduced (or did not significantly increase) methane under both historical and future climate conditions and relative to all baseline management systems, although there was considerable variation across five selected climate models.ConclusionsSRI management principles combined with high-yielding varieties, implemented for site-specific conditions, can serve climate change adaptation and mitigation goals, although the magnitude of future climate changes, particularly warming, may reduce the efficacy of these interventions with respect to methane reductions. Future work should better bracket important sensitivities of coupled crop-soil models and disentangle which management and climate factors drive the responses shown. Furthermore, future analyses that integrate these findings into socio-economic assessment can better inform if and how SRI/AWD can potentially benefit farmer livelihoods now and in the future, which will be critical to the adoption and scaling of these management principles.