Subsistence farming refers to a type of agricultural practice where farmers cultivate crops and raise livestock primarily to meet the basic needs of their own families or communities. In this type of farming, the primary goal is to produce enough food, including grains, vegetables, and sometimes livestock, to sustain the farmer and their family. The surplus, if any, is usually minimal and may be sold or traded locally. Subsistence farming is often characterized by small-scale, labor-intensive methods. Farmers typically use traditional techniques and rely on manual labor, simple tools, and natural resources. The choice of crops and animals is based on the needs of the household rather than market demand. The farming practices are usually sustainable and tailored to the local environment.

Description: This type of farming is primarily for the farmer’s own consumption, with little or no surplus for sale.

Characteristics: Small-scale, diverse crops, manual labor-intensive.