Assessment of socio-economic status of agroforestry farmers: A case study in eastern Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

Understanding the impact of agricultural practices on the livelihood and socio-economic status (SES) of ethnic communities in remote areas is fundamental in developing successful implementation of developmental programmes. The study conducted in Namsai and Tirap districts of Arunachal Pradesh highlights remarkable disparities among farmers of various landholding categories. Most farming households involved in traditional agroforestry practices were recorded in the SES-AF (Socio-economic status of agroforestry farmers) category III (medium), 51% and 63% in Namsai and Tirap districts, respectively. The study also highlights various occupations farmers adopt to improve their livelihood conditions in response to the growing cost of living. The study also assessed the gross return, net return and expenses in TAF practices among farmers of different landholding categories. The scatter plots underscore the complexity of net returns and input costs, extending beyond farm size to encompass management practices, investment extent, crop selection, and marketability among farmers