LIVELIHOOD ASSETS AND LIVELIHOOD STRATEGIES OF SMALL FARMERS IN SALT RANGE: A CASE STUDY OF PIND DADAN KHAN DISTRICT JHELUM, PAKISTAN

摘要

This paper investigates the livelihood assets along with strategies and land management practices used in the salt affected areas near the Khewra Salt Mines. The effect of brackish water on crops, copping strategies, farm and off farm income and off farm work type, other sources of livelihood like pension and remittances were probed in detail with in context of five livelihood capitals. We find that little profitable opportunities exist to increase agricultural production, household incomes and achieve more sustainable land management in the salt range area of P.O. Khan. For sustainable livelihood improvement of crop production, using FYM, effective utilization of rainwater with very little application of brackish ground water for irrigation; improved livestock management; and diversification of livelihoods towards non farm activities are of utmost importance. The comparative advantage of people in the foothills of salt range is not only in intensive wheat production but also more in other alternative activities. As a result, greater emphasis on developing these alternatives in agricultural extension and other development programs may be fruitful.