The challenges of integrated farming system development towards sustainable agriculture in Indonesia

Abstract

This study was aimed to determine the challenges of developing an Integrated Farming System (IFS). IFS is one of the solutions for agricultural development in Indonesia by integrating agriculture, livestock, fisheries, forestry and other sciences related to agriculture. It is expected to be able to increased land productivity. This research was conducted with a comparative study from various countries such as Brazil, India, US, sub-Saharan Africa countries regarding development issues, implementation, and constraints that occur in an IFS. The method of study is literature study. The results of the study show that the implementation of the IFS system poses various challenges, including: a) lack of understanding of farmers towards IFS, b) limited ability of farmers to utilize agricultural technology and c) financial support. However, IFS can increase agricultural food security and increased farmer welfare and expand employment. The implementation of IFS requires government support to create opportunities to increase farm scale in line with farmers’ income.