how is subsistence agriculture different from the
Answers
#BAL
Key Differences Between Subsistence and Commercial Farming
The difference between subsistence and commercial farming can be elaborated on the basis of following premises:
Subsistence farming is a system of farming that aims at growing that much amount of crops that fulfils all or almost all the needs of the farmer and his family, with little to no excess produce for marketing. Commercial Farming is the farming method in which crop production and cattle rearing are performed with an intention to sell the produce in the market.
Due to high labour inputs are required in subsistence farming, it is a labour-intensive technique. On the contrary, in commercial farming, huge capital investment is required, and that is why it is a capital-intensive technique.
Subsistence farming is performed in a small area only. As against, a large area is required to perform commercial farming.
To increase productivity, manure is added to the soil, in subsistence farming. In contrast, in commercial farming, the yield of crops can be increased by high doses of modern inputs, i.e. high yielding variety seeds, fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, and so forth.
In subsistence farming, mainly food grains like wheat and rice, fruits and vegetables are grown. Conversely, in commercial farming mainly cash crops and cereals are grown.
While subsistence farming highly depends on the monsoon and simple methods of irrigation, commercial farming relies on modern irrigation methods such as surface irrigation, drip system, sprinkler, etc.
In subsistence farming, traditional methods of cultivation are used, whereas machines are used for the purpose of cultivating the land, in commercial farming.
Conclusion
By and large, the socio-economic development of all the countries of the world, mainly depends on its agriculture, as it is the source of livelihood to many, as well as it adds to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Indeed, the higher the growth of agriculture in a country, the more its trade and industry will flourish.
Subsistence and Commercial farming are the two types of farming practices. Subsistence agriculture is performed by the farmer for the survival of his own and the person’s dependent on him. On the contrary, commercial agriculture is nothing but an agricultural business, wherein crops are grown for trading purpose.
Answer:
Subsistence Agriculture is the production of food primarily for consumption by the farmer's family. Commercial Agriculture is the production of cash crops primarily for sale off the farm.