Low-cost farming solutions for small and marginal farmers in hilly regions

Abstract

Agriculture in India’s hilly regions, including the Himalaya and North-Eastern states, is largely small-scale, labor-intensive, and based on mixed crop-livestock systems. Farmers contend with steep slopes, soil erosion, fragmented plots, water scarcity, climate variability, and limited infrastructure, all of which constrain productivity and income. Traditional practices-such as terrace farming, mixed cropping, and low-input organic methods-offer cost-effective, locally adapted ways to maintain soil fertility, conserve water, and ensure food security. Recent low-cost technological innovations, including bamboo-based drip irrigation, solar dryers, hermetic storage, small mechanization tools, and simplified polyhouses, have shown strong potential to boost yields, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase household income. Community-led initiatives, participatory seed systems, and digital advisory platforms further enhance adoption and resilience. This review draws on open-access studies and case examples from the Indian Himalayan and North-Eastern regions, highlighting key challenges, effective solutions, and pathways to scale sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient mountain agriculture.