IARD program promotes sustainable livelihoods by building the capacities of farmers, including women producers, on improved agricultural practices and new technologies that increase crop yields, conserve water, and improve soil fertility. AMF team members works with small-holder farmers in rain-fed and irrigated areas to facilitate adoption of improved and advanced agricultural practices that include soil health management, crop production management, input-use efficiency, small farm mechanization, water-efficient irrigation techniques, horticultural development, livestock management, and the use of information and communication technology (ICT) in agriculture.

IARD program uses a learn-by-doing approach to build the capacities of farmers to maximize their crop productivity and manage soil health. The team conducts crop demonstrations to teach farmers about the importance of soil testing, quality seeds, appropriate seed rates, seed-sowing methods, essential micronutrients and macronutrients, correct quality and quantities of plant protection chemicals, pest management, weed management, use of compost, and other advanced techniques. In addition, the use of bio-fertilizers is promoted to improve soil microbial activity. This knowledge helps farmers improve crop productivity while maintaining their soil quality. Results are demonstrated on the farmers’ own fields with side-by-side control and treated fields.

IARD program encourages entrepreneurship among small farmers, and landless women in particular, by supplementing the existing sources of income, mitigating the risk of farmers, and in some cases protecting biodiversity, and promoting food security. Some of the entrepreneurship activities promoted include high-value crop cultivation, horticulture development, goatery management, and farm machinery, among others.

IARD program promotes animal health to improve milk productivity. Profitability of dairy farming depends upon three main factors: breed of the animal, management, and feeding practices. Inadequate feeding causes nutrition imbalances in milch animals so they do not attain the desired body weight; they remain unhealthy and produce less milk. The program encourages farmers to regularly deworm dairy animals and include high-quality mineral additives to their diet including green fodder. The method is sustainable as dietary supplements are locally available, and training is provided on how to give them to the animals.

The demand for animal proteins continues to increase, as do the challenges for livestock producers. Producers are eager to reduce reliance on antibiotics, minimize environmental impacts, maintain productivity and improve animal welfare.

Scientific solutions to these challenges can help producers raise healthy, productive animals. Our research ensures that livestock, poultry and aquaculture producers thrive. These solutions also provide consistent access to affordable, nutritious food.

We created the Advanced Animal Systems Challenge Area to enhance animal production. We focus on rigorous scientific research that addresses the urgent problems producers face. Our Advanced Animal Systems research specifically develops solutions that improve animal health and welfare, bolster producer profitability and sustain our food supply.