Commercial Farming

Commercial farming are of various types, including commercial grain farming, mixed farming, and plantation agriculture.

In commercial grain farming, crops are cultivated and animals are raised primarily for sale in the market. This type of farming typically involves large-scale cultivation over extensive areas, with significant capital investment. Mechanization plays a crucial role, with machinery performing much of the agricultural work.

• In terms of crops, commercial grain farming typically involves the cultivation of wheat and maize.
• It is prevalent in the temperate grasslands of North America, Europe, and Asia.

Mixed farming involves the cultivation of crops for commercial purposes alongside the rearing of livestock. These farms are often located in sparsely populated areas, covering vast expanses of land. Severe winters in some regions limit the growing season, allowing for only a single crop to be cultivated.

• Mixed farming incorporates the production of both food and fodder crops, along with livestock rearing.
• It is practiced in regions like Europe, the eastern USA, Argentina, southeast Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Plantation agriculture, on the other hand, focuses on the cultivation of a single crop for commercial purposes. Considerable labor and capital are required for this type of farming, and the produce may be processed either on the farm itself or in nearby factories. A well-developed transportation network is essential to support this form of agriculture.

• Plantation agriculture includes crops such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, cashew, rubber, banana, or cotton.
• They are commonly found in tropical regions worldwide, with examples including rubber plantations in Malaysia, coffee plantations in Brazil, and tea plantations in India and Sri Lanka.

The term “agriculture” originates from the Latin words “ager” or “agri,” which refer to soil, and “culture,” meaning cultivation. Agriculture encompasses the primary activity of cultivating crops, fruits, vegetables, and flowers, and raising livestock. Globally, around 50% of the population is involved in agricultural activities.

In India, two-thirds of the population still rely on agriculture for their livelihood. For more in-depth information on this topic, students can refer to Chapter 4 of CBSE Class 8 Geography. Additionally, CBSE Notes Class 8 Geography Chapter 4-Agriculture are available to help students prepare comprehensively for their exams.