integrated farming system for sustainable livelihood in tribal Areas of Nicobar island, India

Abstract

An integrated farming system model comprising home garden for growing fruits and vegetables, goat, backyard poultry was evaluated in farmer’s field on participatory approach in two tribal villages of Car Nicobar. The model aims at improving livelihood security of the tribal household through improving household nutrition, income and employment generation. From the system about 300 kg of seasonal vegetables, 117 kg of greens, 214 kg of tubers, and 200kg of fruits were produced from an area of 400 m2. The egg production has also increased resulting in improved consumption. After the intervention the consumption of vegetables including greens, fruits and egg increased significantly from 50 to 250 % due to on farm production and availability. The consumption of tubers decreased by 25% with increased consumption of other food items indicating a change in dietary pattern more towards balanced nutrition. After consumption the sale of surplus farm produce and goat kids resulted in supplementary household income of about Rs.7500/- from the system. A total of 95 man days were generated by the system viz., 52 man days in home garden, 40 man days in livestock rearing and 3 man days in composting spread throughout the year. Composting of organic residues on farm resulted in effective recycling of farm waste for crop production.