Determinants of Cropping Pattern in the Semi-Arid Zone of Southern Tamilnadu, India

Determination of cropping pattern is essential to decide whether the agriculture is subsistence or sustainable. The present study was conducted to find the cropping pattern and its determinants in the semi-arid zone of southern Tamilnadu (Thirumangalam block, Madurai district). The survey was carried out to know the existing agricultural practices and it was correlated with rainfall, temperature, irrigation facility, market prices and socio-economic conditions of the cultivators. The study revealed that sorghum was suitable crop for rainfed area and paddy was appropriate crop for irrigated area. The Olericulture (vegetable cultivation) had market support and provided promising economic profitability for the farmers of this area.