Optimizing resource use efficiency of major farming systems: A study in the hills of Himachal Pradesh

Using primary data on 240 farmers, this study examines the resource use efficiency of predominant farming systems in the hills of Himachal Pradesh and optimizes the existing resource use using linear programming technique. Six predominant farming systems were identified and dairy was an important component in each farming system. The study reveals the under-utilization of inputs under consideration for all farming systems. The optimization results indicate that there is a substantial scope of increasing farm income through optimal use of the existing resources. Also, an increase in the availability of binding resources can enhance the per farm net income of the farmers; indicating the need to provide more resources to the hill farmers for increasing their income and improving livelihood security.