Studies on sustainable livelihood of farmers in horticulture-based farming systems

Study on horticulture + crop + dairy + poultry (H + C + D + P) and horticulture + crop + dairy+ poultry + sheep/goat (H + C + D + P + S/G) farming systems was conducted in Tiruvallur and Thanjavur districts of Tamil Nadu, India to understand the contribution of horticulture-based farming system in providing sustainable livelihood and influencing techno-socio-economic characteristics of farm families. A Sustainable Livelihood Index (SLI) was developed. The H + C + D + P was not only perceived to be eco-friendly but also ensured high level of food security (76.92%) than H + C + D + P + S/G (66.67%). However, both the systems had low level of input recycling and permanent asset creation. The H + C + D + P + S/G was more profitable (60.00%) than H + C + D + P (46.15%). The livelihood sustainability was positively influenced by education, decision making pattern and communication behaviour. The study suggests that livelihood of poor farm families in developing countries would be improved better, if they are appropriately sensitized on horticulture-based farming systems.