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A Holistic Approach to Building Sustainable Food Systems: The concept and Paradigm of Permaculture
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Keywords

Permaculture
Integrated farming
sustainable food system
Agroecology
Coexistance
Ecosystem balance

Categories

How to Cite

Kumar R, A. (2025). A Holistic Approach to Building Sustainable Food Systems: The concept and Paradigm of Permaculture. South India Journal of Social Sciences, 23(6), 16-19. https://doi.org/10.62656/SIJSS.v23i6S.2098

Abstract

The over-reliance on chemical pesticides and fertilisers, dependence on high-yielding crop varieties, and infringement on local farmers' rights to make decisions about food and agroecosystems have all contributed to the growth of commercial agriculture. As a result, permaculture has evolved to support the creation of self-sufficient and sustainable agroecological food systems that combine efficient use of resources, energy, and space. It focuses on developing agro-ecosystems that surpass traditional agriculture through a set of principles that foster the degree of interconnection between various components, yielding a sustainable food system, paving the path for a peaceful coexistence of human beings and nature. Permaculture is a viable approach to designing sustainable food systems where ecological landscapes and sustainable populations coexist since its principles are consistent with those of agroecology. Permaculture, as opposed to agroecology, emphasises the intentional design of sustainable systems by including different elements, resulting in a whole ecosystem where numerous species and breeds flourish. However, Permaculture is still in its infancy in India, despite its apparent scope, and it longs for a boost. The government ought to recognise and encourage permaculture throughout the nation by offering sufficient assistance.

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