GS IAS Logo

< Previous | Contents | Next >

24.6 SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE

It is a form of agriculture aimed at meeting the needs of the present generation without endangering the resource base of the future generations. It is considered as a system of cultivation with the use of manure, crop rotation and minimal tillage and with minimum dependence on synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and antibiotics. It is a balanced management system of renewable resources including soil, wildlife, forests, crops, fish, livestock, plant genetic resources and ecosystems without degradation and to provide food, livelihood for current and future generations maintaining or improving productivity and ecosystem services

of these resources.


Sustainable agriculture has to prevent land degradation and soil erosion. It has to replenish nutrients and control weeds, pests and diseases through biological and cultural methods.

Degradation of natural resources is the main issue threatening sustainable development of agriculture.