Assessment of the strategy for developing Circular Agriculture System in Irrigated Northwestern Plain Zone of Rajasthan based on SWOT – AHP Analysis

Abstract

Circular agriculture system (CAS) offers a sustainable approach to farming that aims to minimize resource wastage, enhance ecological balance, and promote long-term economic viability. In the context of Rajasthan’s Irrigated Northwestern Plain Zone—where resource efficiency and climate resilience are critical—circular agriculture emerges as a viable alternative to the synthetic input intensive linear method of farming. This study aims to assess the developmental strategy for CAS in the region, focusing on both its internal capabilities and the external environment affecting its growth.

For a systematic assessment the study employed a SWOT analysis framework coupled with SWOT- AHP (S-AHP) analysis. The analyses were supported by expert consultations and primary & secondary research. Inputs were drawn and inferred from agriculture experts’ opinions, farmers’ perception of CAS, consumer behaviour towards CAS, and policy developments related to CAS in the region—including the 2024–25 state budget. To derive key strategic insights, each SWOT element was rated and analyzed quantitatively using the S-AHP method.

The core strengths of adopting Circular farming techniques in the agriculture system are: it builds a climate resistant crop, enhances soil fertility, conserves water, and reduces the emission of GHGs in the atmosphere; CAS is not heavily reliant on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, hence the produce is high in nutritional value; and the negligible to no cost of external inputs leads to long-term profits for the farmers, especially small landholders. These strengths are fortified by the opportunities presenting themselves in the region. The main sources of impetus can be positive consumer behavior and favorable governmental policies and initiatives. The results of SWOT and S-AHP analyses have revealed that the strengths and opportunities of CAS in the region significantly outweigh its weaknesses and threats, hence growth-oriented SO strategy should be adopted in the development of the system. Circular agriculture system in the Irrigated Northwestern Plain Zone of Rajasthan. If the internal strengths of CAS are fortified with targeted policy support and strategic interventions, than this system of farming holds strong potential to gradually transform conventional farming to sustainable farming in the region.