Principles and Techniques of Veterinary and AH Extension

MIXED FARMING

• According to the 12^th National Conference of Agricultural Economists (1960) a farm where at least 10 per cent of its income is contributed by livestock is called a mixed farm. The upper limit of gross income to be contributed by livestock activities was fixed at 49 per cent under Indian conditions.
• This conference restricted the scope of mixed farming to the livestock activities, which would largely include milch cattle and buffaloes.
• Any extension of mixed farming by supplementary enterprises like sheep and goat farming, fishery and poultry were classified under diversified farming.
• eg. Crop with dairy farming, the most common type of farming in India
• Advantages of mixed / diversified farming are
  • Well suited for adoption round the year under Indian conditions.
  • Income obtained throughout the year.
  • Offers opportunity for better use of land, capital and labour.
  • Helps in maintaining soil fertility.
  • Reduces the risks due to failure, unfavourable market price etc.
  • Income is regular and quick.
  • Cost of transportation and sale of by-products can be reduced to minimum.
  • Offers opportunity for complete use of agricultural wastes.
  • Provides balanced and protective farming.