Multi-Objective Crop and Livestock Allocation Modeling (MOCLAM) for Sustainable Agriculture: A Case Study of Semi-Arid India

Sustainable cropping patterns and a systems approach in farming are crucial for the conservation of natural resources and the long-term livelihood of farmers. Achieving agricultural sustainability goals relies on adopting a comprehensive system approach involving developing a comprehensive model for optimal crop and allied enterprise planning. In this study, a multi-objective crop and livestock allocation model (MOCLAM) was devised and evaluated with a case study of the semi-arid and drought-prone Bundelkhand region of Central India. The primary aims of the model were to enhance input efficiency, maximize income and self-sufficiency and minimize water usage and other environmental impacts. The uniqueness of the proposed model lies in three key aspects: First, the model adopts a systemic view of agriculture by simultaneous optimization of both crops and livestock, second, MOCLAM introduces a quasi-dynamic framework and third, the model comprehensively incorporates water considerations from both surface and groundwater sources. The findings of the case study demonstrated that optimal resource allocation can significantly increase farmers’ net economic margins, conserve water and effectively utilize vast monsoon-season (locally termed as kharif) fallow lands in the region. By adopting microirrigation techniques and improved sowing methods, water savings can be more than doubled without compromising economic margins. Compensating farmers for potential lower yields of sesame, a low-water-requiring and stray-cattle-resistant crop, would encourage the adoption of these water-saving practices. Increasing water availability by 24% through water harvesting can boost farmers’ returns by up to 62%. This study suggests that farmers may be reluctant to adopt agroforestry practices, such as integrating trees with field crops, unless they are incentivized for the social benefits these systems provide. It also requires the development of an adequate timber marketing mechanism that is crucial for wider adoption.