International Journal of Agriculture Extension and Social Development

author(s)
Sandra Manoj, Smitha Baby and Devika RS

abstract
Homestead farming has been the means of agricultural productivity and income in a sustainable manner. But, poor risk management in homestead farming leads to a decline in farmers’ earnings and further leads them to resort to inefficient resource management strategies. The study aims to understand the characteristics of cultivators and their adoption pattern of resource management strategies. The study was conducted in six panchayats of Kannur district and had a sample size of 150 homesteads. Along with the sociodemographic profile, the adoption of resource management strategies, which were grouped into management of changes in land use, soil and water management practices, nutrient management practices, pest and disease management practices, and practices for maintaining biodiversity within the homestead, was analysed using the adoption percentage and total adoption rate. The study revealed that the majority of farmers were old, with an education of high school, and had an annual income of up to one lakh. Most of the cultivators had fragmented land but higher farming experience. Agroforestry, contour farming, use of house refuse and animal manure, plant-based preparations as pesticides, and multicropping were the highly adopted strategies among each category. The study concluded that it is essential to bridge the knowledge gap, promote diversification, training, and engaging youth are essential to enhance productivity and promote homestead cultivation.