Department of Agricultural Economics, Agricultural College, Bapatla, Andhra Pradesh
Online published on 5 December, 2018.
Coastal ecosystems are sensitive and are degrading at various levels in India. East Godavari district in Andhra Pradesh has long coastline which is under stress. Data collected from 140 sampled farm households in all the 11 coastal mandals adjoining the sea coast of 144 km in East Godavari for the year 2016–17 are analysed to study the factors influencing farm income. The analysis indicates that farm income from different crop activities assumes importance as the income from paddy alone is not significant in view of higher input costs and low paddy yields, 4.8 t/ha in Kharif and 4.0 t/ha in Rabi seasons. The reasons for low yield may be due to deterioration of land quality as a consequence of the problems of sea water intrusion and the resultant salinization. Salt-tolerant rice varieties that are capable of growing in saline conditions need to be developed as is pursued in China. Climate resilient agricultural practices such as crop diversification and farming system approaches need to be adapted to enhance income and protect coastal ecosystems. As rice is the important crop, there is possibility to increase yields to 6.5 -7.0 t/ha in Kharif and 8 to 10 q/ha in Rabi by adopting drum seeder rice and direct sowing. Pulses can be grown with higher yields in rice fallows instead of paddy. Strengthening the drainage system and prevention of encroachment of drainage systems and release of irrigation water in time is required to stabilize the system for enhanced income. As banana, cashew nut and coconut cultivation is occupied in small areas, it can be expanded for higher income. Fodder is grown in small patches and requires to enhance fodder cultivation to meet the demand for the existing livestock as there is great scope for livestock development in the region. Mangrove forests exist only in Tallarevu mandal and its conservation is an urgent necessity for protection from the risks of climate change. Wind breaks need to be developed to prevent beach erosion.
