DRY LAND FARMING IN MECHERI PANCHAYAT: AN EXPLORATION OF SOCIO-ECONOMIC CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

Dry land farming is a vital livelihood strategy for rural communities in Mecheri Panchayat, Tamil Nadu. However, these farmers face numerous socio-economic challenges, including water scarcity, soil degradation, and market fluctuations. Dry lad farmers were selected from Mechri randomly selected, which accounted to 60dry land farming. The filed data collection was carried out were related to agriculture year 2024-2025. Simple percentage and average values were used to describe the socio-economic profile of the selected sample in dry land farmers. This study explores the socio-economic dynamics of dry land farming in Mecheri Panchayat, with a focus on the livelihood strategies, challenges, and coping mechanisms of dry land farmers. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research reveals the complex interplay between social, economic, and environmental factors that shape the lives of dry land farmers. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to support dry land farmers, including irrigation infrastructure, agricultural extension services, and market linkages. This study contributes to our understanding of the socio-economic realities of dry land farming and informs policy and practice aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development. KEYWORD: Income, Livestock, Fabricator, Harvest, Input revenue, Dry and farmers