Urban Agriculture and Food Security: A Framework for Civic Husbandry in Indian Metropolitan Areas

Deekshitha Jain M J; Keerthana M U; Rachana C R; Supreetha Gowda H D

Urban Agriculture and Food Security: A Framework for Civic Husbandry in Indian Metropolitan Areas

Author(s)	Ms. Deekshitha Jain M J, Ms. Keerthana M U, Mrs Rachana C R, Dr. Supreetha Gowda H D
Country	India
Abstract	The rapid urbanization of Indian cities has created significant challenges in food security, with metropolitan areas increasingly dependent on distant agricultural sources for fresh produce. This research proposes a comprehensive framework for civic husbandry—small-scale urban agriculture implemented in communal spaces such as community gardens, rooftops, and unused urban plots. Drawing from successful international models including Havana's urban farming initiative and domestic examples from Kerala and Bengaluru, this study presents a systematic approach to establishing sustainable urban food production systems. The framework addresses critical urban challenges including food security, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment through locally-grown, chemical-free produce. The research methodology encompasses pilot implementation strategies, community engagement protocols, and partnership models with government programs and non-governmental organizations. Key benefits identified include enhanced nutritional security through pesticide-free produce, reduced transportation costs and associated carbon emissions, improved urban air quality, and economic empowerment opportunities, particularly for women's self-help groups. The study also examines implementation challenges, including initial capital requirements, resistance from housing associations, knowledge gaps among urban residents, and time constraints faced by city dwellers. A phased implementation timeline is proposed, beginning with pilot projects involving 10-20 households, expanding to city-wide networks over three years, and culminating in policy integration for long-term sustainability. The findings suggest that civic husbandry represents a viable and scalable solution for enhancing urban food security while promoting environmental sustainability and community development in rapidly growing Indian metropolitan areas.
Keywords	Urban agriculture, civic husbandry, food security, sustainable cities, community gardens, terrace farming, urban farming, India, environmental sustainability, women empowerment
Field	Biology > Agriculture / Botany
Published In	Volume 7, Issue 1, January-February 2026
Published On	2026-02-12

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Urban Agriculture and Food Security: A Framework for Civic Husbandry in Indian Metropolitan Areas

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