Agricultural Land Conversion And Food Security

Description

The book delves into the critical issue of agricultural land conversion to non-agricultural purposes, a trend that has significant implications for global economic development, food security, and sustainable land use. Focusing on the case study of three villages in the Dindigul district of Tamil Nadu—Kallikkampatti, Chettiyapatti, and Pillayar Natham—the book meticulously examines the extent, causes, and consequences of this conversion. The primary objectives are to analyze land use dynamics at various levels, investigate the determinants of land conversion, and estimate the resultant loss in food production and its impact on food security. The study offers a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic factors driving farmers to convert their agricultural land, highlighting the challenges posed by high population density, economic growth, industrialization, and urbanization. By integrating primary data with triangulated secondary sources, the book provides nuanced insights into the motivations and pressures faced by the agricultural community. This work is significant as it not only identifies the major causes and impacts of land conversion but also suggests policy measures to protect agricultural land and promote sustainable development. Readers will benefit from a detailed understanding of the factors influencing land use decisions and their broader implications for food security and rural livelihoods, offering valuable perspectives for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders in the field of sustainable development.