Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations

Introduction 

Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations is a government-initiated agriculture scheme launched by the Government of India to support farmers, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and agri-entrepreneurs. The launch year is around 2024-2025, as recent training programs and demonstrations have been organized nationwide. IFS promotes a holistic, diversified farming approach that integrates crops, livestock, aquaculture, forestry, and biofertilizers on the same farm to maximize resource use, enhance income stability, and improve sustainability.

This training addresses key problems faced by Indian farmers, such as income insecurity due to dependence on a single crop, vulnerability to climate change, and inefficient resource utilization. By demonstrating integrated models and offering skill development, the program encourages farmers to adopt practices that ensure year-round income and sustainable production. The training also emphasizes climate resilience and organic inputs, aiming to boost productivity while conserving natural resources.

Overview of the Scheme

Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations is an initiative launched by the Government of India primarily through the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. This program is implemented by agencies such as the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and its network of Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), along with state agriculture departments. For example, ICAR-NAARM Hyderabad and ICAR-National Rice Research Institute in Cuttack actively organize skill development and hands-on training sessions on IFS for farmers.

The funding pattern for these activities generally follows a Centrally Sponsored Scheme model, with shared costs between the central and state governments. While specific sharing ratios can vary by scheme and state, a common funding pattern in agriculture extension programs is 60:40 between the central and state governments. Sometimes, schemes are fully funded by the central government depending on the context.

IFS Training covers multiple sectors including crop production, horticulture, livestock management, aquaculture, agroforestry, value addition, use of machinery, credit facilitation, and insurance awareness. Training often includes practical demonstrations and distribution of inputs like seedlings or farm tools. For instance, workshops teach integration of poultry and fish farming with crop cultivation to ensure year-round income for farmers.

Currently, the program is ongoing and continues to be supported and expanded to promote sustainable, diversified farming that enhances farmer income, reduces risk, and improves resource use efficiency. It has been integrated within broader agricultural skill development and extension missions to reach small and marginal farmers across India.

Key Points:

• Launched by: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Govt. of India
• Implementing agencies: ICAR, Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), State Agricultural Departments
• Funding pattern: Typically 60% Central and 40% State share (varies)
• Coverage: Crop, horticulture, livestock, aquaculture, agroforestry, value addition, training, credit, insurance
• Status: Ongoing, integrated with national agricultural extension and skill development programs
• Example: Training on dryland IFS models including rainwater harvesting and farm pond construction

Objectives 

The objectives of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations focus on equipping farmers and rural communities with practical knowledge and skills to adopt diversified and sustainable farming. These agriculture scheme goals aim to increase farm productivity and enhance farmer income by integrating crops, livestock, fisheries, and agroforestry in one farming unit. The purpose is to support livelihood security and reduce farmers’ dependency on a single crop or enterprise.

Key objectives of the IFS Training and Demonstrations include:

• Increase awareness among farmers and beneficiaries about the benefits and scientific practices of integrated farming systems.
• Promote the integration of multiple enterprises such as cereals, pulses, vegetables, fruits, livestock, and fishery to optimize resource use and maximize overall farm productivity.
• Support income diversification and risk reduction by combining various agricultural and allied activities on the farm.
• Enhance skills through hands-on training, field demonstrations, and practical knowledge about biofertilizers, organic pest management, residue recycling, and water conservation technologies.
• Facilitate the adoption of climate-resilient and sustainable farming techniques tailored to local agro-climatic conditions.
• Encourage residue recycling and low-cost inputs to reduce production expenses for small and marginal farmers.
• Strengthen farmer capacity to improve food and nutritional security as well as ecological balance on farms.

Key Features / Benefits 

Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations offer several important features and benefits designed to help farmers increase productivity, profitability, and sustainability. The program provides practical knowledge and support to integrate multiple farm activities resourcefully.

• Resource Recycling for Cost Reduction: IFS promotes the reuse of farm waste and residues as inputs such as animal feed or compost, reducing the need to buy external inputs. (Example: Crop residues converted into vermicompost benefit subsequent crops.)
• Diversified Income Sources: By combining crops, livestock, poultry, fishery, and horticulture, farmers generate income year-round and reduce the risk of relying on a single crop.
• Improved Soil Health: Integrated farming practices increase soil fertility through organic manure and nutrient recycling, supporting long-term farming sustainability.
• Skill Development and Demonstrations: Training provides hands-on lessons on integrating enterprises scientifically and managing farm resources efficiently, improving farmers’ capacity.
• Climate-Resilient Farming: IFS encourages adoption of practices and crop combinations suited to local agro-climatic conditions, making farms more resistant to extremes.
• Input and Machinery Assistance: The scheme facilitates access to inputs, biofertilizers, and relevant farm machinery with subsidies or guidance to reduce production costs.
• Enhanced Livelihood Security: Small and marginal farmers benefit from a stable income throughout the year due to diverse production activities.
• Credit and Financial Support Awareness: Training includes information on accessing agricultural credit and insurance to protect investments and encourage expansion.
• Employment Generation: Integration of livestock, fishery, and agroforestry creates more employment opportunities on farms within rural households.
• Sustainable Farming Model: The approach balances economic gain with environmental preservation, promoting eco-friendly and energy-efficient farming methods.

Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility criteria for Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations are designed to include various types of beneficiaries involved in agriculture and allied activities. The requirements ensure that the program supports genuine participants who can benefit from and implement integrated farming techniques effectively.

For Farmers, eligibility usually requires them to be small or marginal farmers, typically with valid landholding documents proving ownership or tenancy. They should be residents of the target area and provide identification such as Aadhaar card. Age criteria, if any, generally follow normal adult working age ranges (18-65 years). These criteria help ensure the training reaches active farmers who can adopt IFS practices.

Self-Help Groups (SHGs) must be registered under relevant state or central schemes, maintain active status, and have a linked bank account to receive benefits or subsidies. This ensures that group-based farming or collective action can be properly facilitated.

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) are eligible if they are formally registered under the Producer Companies Act or similar laws, have a minimum member count as per official norms (commonly 10-20 members), and demonstrate active farming-related operations. Registration and operational status prove their capacity to adopt and scale integrated farming.

Agricultural Entrepreneurs, Startups, and MSMEs engaged in farming or allied services must be registered under UDYAM or possess GST registration when required. This validates their formal business status and enables access to financial and training support.

Special categories such as women farmers, Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and farmers in North Eastern or Hilly regions may receive priority or additional benefits under specific state or central directives.

Not Eligible: Persons or entities already receiving duplicate benefits under similar schemes or those not actively engaged in agriculture may be excluded to avoid misuse of resources.

Documents required typically include Aadhaar card, land ownership or lease documents, bank passbook for subsidy transfer, registration certificates for SHGs/FPOs/MSMEs, detailed project reports (DPR) for entrepreneurs, and quotations for machinery or inputs where applicable. These documents ensure transparency and accountability in selecting beneficiaries.

Application Process

The application process for Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations is designed to be straightforward, allowing interested beneficiaries like farmers, SHGs, FPOs, and entrepreneurs to register and participate with ease. Here is the step-by-step official process:

Where to Apply: Applications are submitted through the local agriculture department office or the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). Some states may provide online portals for registration; check with the state agriculture website or ICAR regional centers. For example, ICAR institutes offer updates for training sessions on their official site: icar.org.in.

Registration/Login: If applying online, create a user account on the designated portal by entering basic personal details and setting up a login. Offline applicants register at the KVK or block agriculture office.

Application Form: Fill out the form with beneficiary information (name, ID proof like Aadhaar), landholding/farm details (location, size), selected IFS components (crops, livestock, aquaculture), and bank details for subsidy transfer.

Documents to Upload/Submit: Provide copies of Aadhaar card, land ownership or lease papers, bank passbook, registration certificates for SHGs/FPOs/MSMEs if applicable, and any quotations or project proposals if needed.

Application Fee: Generally, there is no fee to apply for the training and demonstrations under this scheme.

Acknowledgment: After submission, receive an application ID or acknowledgment either online or as a receipt from the office.

Verification/Field Inspection: Officials may conduct a field visit or document verification to confirm eligibility and assess the farm condition.

Approval and Assistance Release: Once approved, beneficiaries are informed through SMS/email or direct communication. Assistance like training, inputs, subsidies, or equipment support is usually released via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the linked bank account.

Offline Route: Visit the local Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), ATMA office, or block agriculture office for application forms, guidance, and submission in person.

Helpline and Support: Contact local agriculture department helpline numbers or ICAR regional centers for help. Official websites provide contact details.

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes:

• Ensure all names in the application and documents match exactly.
• Provide clear and valid land and identity proofs.
• Upload all required documents completely.
• Apply before the deadline to avoid rejection.

Challenges or Limitations 

Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations come with several acknowledged challenges and limitations. Understanding these common issues along with practical solutions can help beneficiaries and implementing agencies make the most of the program.

Challenge: Limited Farmer Knowledge on Suitable Cropping Systems

Many farmers are not fully aware of the correct combinations of crops, livestock, and other components for their specific region.

→ Solution: Attend regular training sessions and visit successful IFS units to gain hands-on experience and better understand system interactions.

Challenge: Lack of Access to Timely Agricultural Inputs and Credit

Farmers often face difficulties obtaining needed seeds, biofertilizers, equipment, or credit in time for planting and maintenance.

→ Solution: Plan application and procurement early, maintain contact with local agriculture offices, and explore timely credit options.

Challenge: Labour Shortages for Managing Multiple Enterprises

Running diversified farm enterprises requires more labour, which may be scarce or expensive, especially during overlapping seasonal activities.

→ Solution: Organize community labour sharing or hire temporary workers during peak periods.

Challenge: Poor Knowledge of ICT and Marketing Skills

Farmers may lack familiarity with digital tools for farming advisories and online marketing of products, limiting profitability.

→ Solution: Take advantage of e-training modules, seek help from extension services, and participate in marketing skill workshops.

Challenge: Verification Delays and Document Mismatches

Incomplete or mismatched application documents, such as land records or identity proofs, can delay approvals or cause rejection.

→ Solution: Keep all official documents up-to-date and double-check for consistency before submission.

Challenge: Seasonal Time Windows for Training and Demonstrations

Training programs may only be held during certain agricultural seasons, limiting availability for some farmers.

→ Solution: Plan participation according to announcements and stay in touch with Krishi Vigyan Kendras and agriculture departments.

Challenge: Limited Budget and Resource Constraints for Extension Services

Extension officials may have limited manpower and funds, affecting the frequency and reach of training and exposure visits.

→ Solution: Engage actively with local farmer groups and request more support when needed to maximize available opportunities.

Challenge: Market Fluctuations Affecting Multiple Farm Products

Despite diversification, external market factors can still impact the sale and prices of various outputs simultaneously.

→ Solution: Explore value addition, join Farmer Producer Organizations, and consider contract farming or direct sales to buyers.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

The Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations scheme actively converges with other major agricultural missions to provide comprehensive support to farmers and rural entrepreneurs. This convergence helps beneficiaries gain multiple benefits from different schemes, enhancing their overall farming income and sustainability.

Key linkages include:

• Convergence with PM-KISAN: Farmers receiving direct income support under PM-KISAN can simultaneously benefit from IFS training to improve their farm productivity and diversify income sources.
• Connection with PMFME (Pradhan Mantri Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises): FPOs and entrepreneurs involved in food processing can leverage IFS knowledge along with PMFME subsidies and credit support for upgrading processing units, benefiting from a dedicated convergence portal launched by the Ministries of Agriculture and Food Processing.
• Linkage with PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana): Crop insurance under PMFBY complements IFS applications by reducing risk on diversified crops, encouraging farmers to adopt mixed farming systems.
• Integration with ATMA (Agricultural Technology Management Agency) and RKVY (Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana): These extension and development schemes support organizing training, demonstrations, and infrastructure strengthening for IFS implementation at the local level.

A practical example is a farmer who receives cash transfers under PM-KISAN, attends IFS training through KVK, receives post-harvest machinery subsidies under RKVY, and uses credit-linked subsidies from PMFME for a food processing unit. This combined support makes their farm more productive and profitable.

The scheme has seen ongoing updates and continued budget allocations aligned with national agricultural extension missions. The focus is on long-term sustainability and doubling farmers’ income by utilizing the strengths of multiple schemes in a coordinated manner.

Conclusion 

The Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) Training and Demonstrations scheme matters because it empowers farmers, especially small and marginal ones, to diversify production and increase income sustainably. By integrating crops, livestock, aquaculture, and horticulture, farmers reduce their risks and improve resource use efficiently. The scheme’s benefits are far-reaching, helping farmers achieve year-round income, better nutrition, and resilience to climate changes. Those interested should check their eligibility on official portals or local agriculture offices, prepare necessary documents like land records and Aadhaar, and apply to take advantage of this practical and supportive agriculture programme. It is important to verify the latest application details and timelines through official websites or helplines to ensure a smooth process. 

Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.