question_answer 5)

Why is agricultural diversification essential for sustainable livelihoods?

Answer:

There are two aspects of diversification (i) change in cropping pattern and (ii) shift of workforce from agriculture to other allied activities (livestock, poultry, fisheries etc.) and non-agriculture sector. Diversification is essential because there is greater risk in depending exclusively on farming for livelihood and to provide productive sustain able livelihood options to rural people. Most of the agricultural employment activities are concentrated in the Khan season while during fie Rabi season 11 becomes difficult to find gainful employment in areas lacking in irrigation facilities. Therefore, expansion into other sectors is essential to provide supplementary gainful employment and in realizing higher levels of income for rural people to overcome poverty and other problems. Hence, there is a need to focus on allied activities, non-farm employment and other emerging alternatives of livelihood for providing sustainable livelihoods in rural areas.