Introduction to Agriculture

What is Agriculture? Agriculture is the cultivation of crops and rearing of animals for food, income, and other uses. Simple meaning: Growing plants + Raising animals = Agriculture 2. Branches of Agriculture You should know this for exams Crop Production Growing crops like maize, rice, tomatoes, cassava Also called arable farming Livestock Production Rearing animals like goats, poultry, cattle, sheep For meat, milk, eggs, etc. Forestry Management of trees and forests Fisheries Rearing of fish (aquaculture) 3. Importance of Agriculture Very important—always comes out in exams. Food production → feeds the population Source of income → farmers earn money Employment → creates jobs Raw materials → for industries (e.g. cotton, cocoa) Economic growth → supports national development 4. Types of Farming Systems 🔹 Subsistence Farming Small scale For family consumption Little or no profit 🔹 Commercial Farming Large scale For sale and profit Uses machines and improved methods 5. Modern Agriculture (Very Important) Modern farming involves: Use of fertilizers Improved seeds Mechanization (tractors, tools) Proper farm management This is what makes farming profitable and sustainable Module 1 Summary Agriculture = crops + animals Two major parts: crop production & livestock It is important for food, income, and economy Farming can be subsistence or commercial.