Agro-ecosystem Based Approaches for Sustainable Enhancement of Rice Productivity in Kerala

By : B.Shanmugasundaram, Neetha Rose

Page No: 24-31

Abstract
Agro-ecosystems provide various benefits termed as ecosystem services. Currently, more than 60 percent of ecosystem services supply is facing destruction or degradation. Rice is the staple crop of Kerala, cultivated in 7 diversified agro-ecosystems. The area and production under rice cultivation experienced a steep fall while productivity improved at a slow pace. This situation aggravated the problems such as food insecurity, poor profitability, environmental and ecological issues. Keeping in view the ecological significance and multifunctionality of rice ecosystems, the agro-ecosystem based approaches are best as it balances economic and ecological effects.

Authors :
B.Shanmugasundaram
Professor (Agricultural Extension), Division of Social Science, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala.

Neetha Rose
Asst Professor (Agricultural Economics), Division of Social Science, Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala.
 

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32381/PROD.2021.62.01.3