Subsistence Agriculture: A Lifeline Rooted in Tradition
Subsistence agriculture, one of the oldest forms of farming, remains a vital source of livelihood for millions of people across the globe. Unlike commercial agriculture, which is geared toward producing surplus crops for sale and profit, subsistence agriculture is focused primarily on self-sufficiency. Farmers grow food mainly to feed themselves and their families, often using traditional methods passed down through generations. This form of agriculture, though limited in scale and output, plays a critical role in food security and rural life, especially in developing countries. Definition and Characteristics Subsistence agriculture refers to a system of farming in which the primary objective is to produce enough food to meet the needs of the farmer and their family, with little or no surplus for trade. Key characteristics of subsistence agriculture include: Small land holdings: Farms are typically small, often less than a few hectares. Low technology use: Farmers rely on manua...