Scenario of Integrated Farming System
(IFS) in India
1. Introduction
Agriculture in India contributes nearly 18% to the national GDP and supports more than
half of the population. However, small and marginal farmers face challenges like low
income, climate vulnerability, soil degradation, and dependence on single crops. Integrated
Farming System (IFS) is emerging as a sustainable solution. It integrates crops, livestock,
fisheries, poultry, agro-forestry, and bioenergy systems into a unified farm unit. The
objective is to maximize productivity, recycle farm resources, minimize risks, and ensure
better livelihood security.
2. Concept and Importance of IFS
Integrated Farming System (IFS) is a mixed farming approach where by-products of one
component (crop residues, animal waste, pond silt) are inputs for another.
Importance in India:
• Increases farm income by diversification.
• Provides year-round employment.
• Improves soil fertility and water-use efficiency.
• Enhances household nutrition (milk, egg, vegetables, fish).
• Promotes sustainable and climate-resilient agriculture.
3. Evolution of IFS in India
Initially promoted through ICAR research projects in the 1980s. Strengthened by All India
Coordinated Research Project on IFS (AICRP-IFS). Recognized in national policies such as
the National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
(RKVY), and ATMA programs. State-specific models developed in Kerala, Tamil Nadu,
Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Assam.
4. Scenario of IFS in India
4.1 Current Adoption
Widely tested in rice–fish–duck systems in Eastern India; crop + dairy + goat + poultry
models in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka; coconut + banana + fish + poultry systems in Kerala;
and millet + goat + agro-forestry + vermicomposting in rainfed areas.
4.2 Impact on Farmers
Studies show income increase by 1.5–2.5 times compared to monocropping. Provides
stability against price fluctuations and crop failure. Enhances women participation in
poultry, dairy, and kitchen gardens. Improves diet diversity and reduces malnutrition in
rural households.
4.3 Government and Institutional Support
ICAR and KVKs develop region-specific IFS models. NABARD and State Agriculture
Departments provide subsidies for ponds, livestock, vermicompost units. FPOs and SHGs
are encouraged to market products from integrated farms.
5. Components of IFS in India
1. Crops – cereals, pulses, vegetables, oilseeds.
2. Livestock – dairy, goats, sheep.
3. Poultry/Duckery – eggs, meat, pest control.
4. Fisheries – aquaculture in ponds/farm reservoirs.
5. Agroforestry – fruit trees, timber crops.
6. Biogas/Composting – waste-to-energy and organic manure.
7. Mushroom cultivation, bee-keeping, sericulture – additional income.
6. Case Studies
Kerala: Coconut + banana + fish + poultry system → 200–250% higher income compared to
coconut monocropping.
Odisha & Assam: Rice–fish–duck system reduces pests naturally, provides fish/meat, and
improves soil fertility with duck droppings.
Tamil Nadu (Coimbatore): Crop + dairy + goat + poultry + biogas system increases income
and reduces fertilizer cost by recycling cow dung into slurry.
7. Challenges in IFS Adoption
• High initial investment for ponds, livestock units, bio-digesters.
• Need for multi-skill training (crop + animal + fishery management).
• Limited access to markets and cold storage for perishable produce.
• Small fragmented landholdings limit large-scale adoption.
• Policy gaps in credit and insurance coverage for integrated enterprises.
8. Future Prospects
Climate-smart agriculture under IFS can reduce dependency on chemical inputs. IFS fits
well into Doubling Farmers’ Income (DFI) strategy. Digital tools, mobile apps, and FPO
platforms will help in marketing. Organic certification and export opportunities for
integrated products. Customization of IFS models for urban and peri-urban agriculture.
9. Conclusion
The Integrated Farming System (IFS) is not just an alternative but a necessity for Indian
agriculture in the 21st century. It addresses the challenges of low income, climate risks, and
environmental degradation. With strong institutional support, region-specific models, and
capacity building of farmers, IFS can significantly improve livelihoods, ensure nutritional
security, and promote sustainable agriculture. The future of Indian farming lies in
integration, diversification, and resource recycling.
10. References
1. ICAR (2023). Integrated Farming Systems for Sustainable Agriculture. Indian Council of
Agricultural Research, New Delhi.
2. Ravisankar, N. et al. (2017). Integrated Farming Systems for Enhancing Income, Nutrition,
and Livelihood Security. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences.
3. Behera, U.K. & France, J. (2016). Integrated Farming Systems and Livelihood Security in
India. Agricultural Systems Journal.
4. Government of India (2022). National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture Guidelines.
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
5. Case studies from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha (ICAR-KVK Reports 2021–2023).