Integrated organic farming system for livelihood and nutritional security

Abstract

A key limitation in organic farming is the insufficient availability of bulk organic inputs. This challenge can be addressed through effective recycling of both on-farm and nearby resources, along with integration of different farm components. To overcome this, an Integrated Organic Farming System (IOFS) model was designed, incorporating cereals, pulses, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, fodder crops, dairy, fish pond, duckery, and a vermicomposting unit. The model aims to fulfill the diverse needs of farm households while conserving resources and protecting the environment. Vertical intensification was achieved by growing climbing vegetables on bamboo structures built above water bodies. Solid wastes from cattle sheds were processed into farmyard manure (FYM) and vermicompost, while wash water from dairy and duck units was channeled into fish ponds to stimulate plankton growth. Rainwater harvesting further supported critical irrigation during winter. On a 0.43 ha farm (near 1.0 acre), the IOFS model yielded a net return of `88,820 annually (equivalent to `2,06,558/ha/year), substantially higher than conventional farmer practices such as rice-fallow or rice-vegetable rotations. Nutrient recycling within the system was highly efficient, meeting about 95.4% of nitrogen, 83% of phosphorus, 98.2% of potassium, and most micronutrient demands internally. Demonstrations of this model on farmers’ fields gained popularity, showing marked improvements in crop and livestock productivity under organic management compared to traditional approaches.