Overcoming constraints through innovative agricultural ventures in the agro-ecological regions of migrant farmers Saini Sushmita1,*, Burman Rajarshi Roy2, Padaria Rabindra Nath1, Mahra Girijesh Singh1, Bishnoi Sitaram1, Aditya Kaustav3, Nithyashree M.L.1, Padhan Smruti Ranjan1, Mallick Sonali1 1Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi–110012 2Indian Council of Agriculture Research, New Delhi–110012 3Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, New Delhi–110012 *Corresponding author email id: sushmitasaini0117@gmail.com
Online Published on 30 March, 2024. Abstract Migration in agriculture is influenced by an intricate interplay of socio-economic as well as ecological factors and has emerged as a predominant marvel. India has a diverse array of agro-ecological regions, each presenting numerous opportunities for farmers to significantly improve their livelihoods. The Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) and the Western Dry Region were the focal points of this study, as Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan were intentionally chosen for an in-depth investigation into both the constraints and innovative agricultural initiatives. In structuring the sampling approach, a stratified multistage sampling methodology was employed, encompassing 480 migrant and 480 non-migrant farmers. Constraints were analyzed using the Garrett ranking method, while text mining was employed to explore innovative agricultural practices among migrants. The findings unveiled a range of challenges faced by migrants at their usual places of residence (UPR), including limited employment opportunities, untimely availability of farm inputs, inadequate support from service providers, and soil salinization. Upon migration, destination-related challenges included irregular wages/salaries, lack of affordable housing options, absence of insurance schemes, and instances of discrimination against local communities. The study further illuminated the income-generating activities in Rajasthan, primarily revolving around livestock management, leafy vegetable production, and oilseed cultivation. In Uttar Pradesh, the focus was on vegetable production, livestock management, and seed cultivation. These lucrative and innovative ventures were custom-tailored to the agro-ecological contexts of the migrants, providing a glimpse into the transformative potential of amalgamating tradition with innovation. Such insights offer valuable guidance to policymakers in empowering migrant populations in agriculture. Top Keywords Agro-ecological regions, Garrett ranking method, Income-generating activities migrants. Top |