Adoption Potential of Integrated Farming Systems: A Socio Economic Study of Farmers in Dausa District of Rajasthan

Abstract

The present study was conducted to assess the socio-economic status, resource availability and knowledge level of farmers regarding the adoption of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) in Dausa district of Rajasthan. A multistage random sampling technique was employed to select 140 farmers across 14 villages from 7 tehsils. Data were collected on variables such as education, farming experience, landholding, annual income, cropping pattern, risk orientation, irrigation status, livestock possession and knowledge of IFS. The results indicated that a majority of the farmers had moderate education levels, annual income and farming experience, with most falling in the semi-medium landholding category. Over 70 percent of respondents showed a medium level of risk orientation and income, while about 66 percent had moderate livestock resources and irrigation access. Importantly, more than half of the farmers demonstrated medium knowledge of IFS, indicating potential readiness for its adoption. The cropping pattern also reflected moderate diversification, which is conducive to integrated approaches. The study concludes that the socio-economic conditions of the farmers in the region are generally favorable for adopting Integrated Farming Systems. With appropriate policy support, awareness programs and infrastructural development, IFS can be an effective strategy to enhance farm income, productivity, and sustainability among small and marginal farmers in semi-arid regions like Dausa.