Cropping system model for sustainable production in arid region: A review

The arid zone of India is spread over 38.7 million hectare area of which 31.7 million hectare is hot arid. The major part of hot arid region occurs in north – western India (21.85 million hectare) and in small pockets in south India (3.13 m ha). About 90% of arid zone is spread in western part of Rajasthan (19.6 m ha), north –western Gujarat (6.22 m ha) and south –western part of Haryana and Punjab (2.75 m ha). Cropping systems of a region are decided and inlarged by a type of soil and climatic parameters which determine overall agro-ecological setting for nourishment and appropriateness of a crop or set of crops for cultivation. An integrated system of plant and animal production practices having a site-specific application that will over the long term satisfy human food and fiber needs. Enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agricultural economy depends. Make the most efficient use of nonrenewable resources and on-farm resources. Sustain the economic viability of farm operations. Enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole. Diversification of crops and cropping systems seems to be a viable option to impart resilience in agricultural production system.