Assessing the socio-economic dimensions of organic farming in the low hill region of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

The study evaluates the socio-economic aspects of organic farming among marginal and small farmers in Himachal Pradesh’s low hill region, focusing on Kangra and Hamirpur districts. A sample of 120 households, 70 marginal and 50 small farmers, was selected through stratified random sampling. Data were collected by structured interviews and secondary sources. Analysis covered family structure, education, occupation, land use, and age. Most farmers live in joint families, with an average size of 5.36 members. The majority of household heads were aged 50– 60 years indicating experience in farming. The literacy rate was high at 89.33 per cent, highlighting the role of education in adopting organic methods. While agriculture remained the main livelihood, off-farm income sources also contributed. The findings emphasized organic farming’s potential as a sustainable livelihood option for smallholders in hilly areas. Strengthening institutional support, certification access, and market linkages were crucial for scaling up organic agriculture and enhancing the socio-economic well-being of hill farmers.