INTRODUCTION

Agriculture stands as the foundational cornerstone of human activity,

encompassing the cultivation of crops and the domestication of animals.
Consequently, the land where agriculture is practiced represents the most
vital of the world's resources, as it meets the fundamental human needs for
sustenance, clothing, and shelter. The historical journey of humanity
reveals that our ancestors initially engaged in food gathering, and as time
progressed, they transitioned into cultivation. In the course of this
transformation, animals were domesticated, initially for their utility as
sources of meat and milk, and later as draft animals. This transition allowed
communities to establish permanent settlements, affording them the time
and opportunity to develop various arts and skills. With the continuous
march of scientific and technological progress, the mechanization of farms
became a reality, resulting in surplus agricultural production. Consequently,
diverse agricultural systems and regions emerged in different corners of the
world.

An agricultural system or region can be characterized as an area with shared

agricultural attributes, encompassing a single farm or a cluster of
interconnected farms exhibiting commonalities in agricultural
characteristics. The endeavor to classify the world into discrete agricultural
regions is a formidable task, given the intricate web of agricultural practices
that unfold globally. Attempts to classify based on climatic conditions may
lead to overlapping farming activities. Alternatively, categorizing based on
the types of crops grown or animals raised might overlook the distinct
methods employed in different agricultural regions. In 1936, Derwent
Whittlesey undertook a commendable effort to address this challenge. He
defined an agricultural region as a contiguous area demonstrating a degree
of homogeneity, delineated by specific boundaries. In that same year, he
authored an article expounding upon the principal agricultural regions of
the Earth, which was subsequently published in the Annals of the
Association of American Geographers (AAG).

Moreover, Whittlesey’s classification, while having its own shortcomings,

still is one of the best classification to understand the different agricultural
systems of the world.
 WHITTLESEY’S WORLD
AGRICULTURAL
SYSTEMS/REGIONS
An agricultural region is defined as an area with comparable functional
attributes. The delineation of agricultural regions faces a significant
challenge due to the lack of reliable data on various aspects of agricultural
patterns. The initial scholarly efforts in this regard was made by Whittlesey
in his paper titled "Major Agricultural Regions of the Earth," which was
published in 1936 in the Annals of the Association of American Geographers
In his influential paper, Whittlesey outlined the Earth's agricultural systems
based on five key characteristics of agriculture:-

Crop and livestock combination.

The intensity of land use.
Processing and marketing of farm produce.
The level of mechanism.
Types and relations of the building and other structures associated with
agriculture.

With the help of the above features, he identified thirteen types of

agricultural systems, which are as follows (see map 1) :-

1. Nomadic herding.
2. Livestock ranching
3. Shifting cultivation
4. Rudimentary tillage
5. Intensive subsistence tillage (with paddy dominance)
6. Intensive subsistence tillage (without paddy dominance)
7. Commercial plantation
8. Mediterranean agriculture
9. Commercial grain farming
10. Commercial livestock and crop farming
11. Subsistence crop and livestock farming
12. Commercial dairy farming
13. Specialized horticulture
 Map 1. Major Agricultural systems of the World

WHITTLESEY’S WORLD AGRICULTURAL SYSTEMS/REGIONS

A detailed account of the 13 agricultural systems is given below :-

1. Nomadic herding :- This form of extensive farming involves animals

grazing on natural pastureland, requiring nomadic herders to engage in
seasonal migrations with their cattle. Nomadic herding is typically
practiced in sparsely populated regions of the world where the
predominant natural vegetation is grass. It can be considered the
original form of livestock ranching, often found in areas that are too arid
for crop cultivation but not entirely desertified. The availability of water
and the presence of natural grasslands play a pivotal role in determining
the location of this activity, with water availability usually taking
precedence. The practices and techniques used in nomadic herding are
quite similar worldwide, but they can vary significantly in terms of
intensity and attention to breeding care. In areas where animals or their
products are sold commercially, farming methods tend to be more
progressive and modern. Conversely, in regions where the products
primarily serve subsistence purposes, the methods remain traditional
and rooted in the past.
Location:- Currently, nomadic herding is predominantly concentrated in
specific regions of the world. These areas include Saharan Africa
(Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, Libya, Algeria), the southwestern and
central parts of Asia, and the northern regions of Scandinavian countries
(Norway, Sweden, Finland) as well as northern Canada. (see map 2)
 Map 2. Areas of Nomadic herding around the world

Characteristics :-
1. Nomadic herding represents an ecological or nearly ecological form of
agriculture, primarily aimed at producing food to meet family needs,
including clothing, shelter, and recreation.
2. This type of agriculture is on the decline and continues to diminish in
significance.
3. The principal feature of nomadic herding is the continuous mobility of
people along with their livestock, as they search for forage and water
resources for their animals.
4. Nomadic herding is practiced by various groups, such as the Bedouin of
Saudi Arabia and the Tuareg of the Sahara, in desert and semi-desert
regions of North Africa and southwestern Asia.
5. The key characteristics of nomadic herding are outlined as follows :-
A seasonal pattern of movement.
Grazing of various types of animals.
The practice of transhumance.

2.Livestock ranching :- The expansive temperate grasslands, previously

linked with nomadic herders or hunters, have now evolved into permanent
ranches where substantial populations of cattle, sheep, goats, and horses
are raised. These grasslands witnessed the introduction of livestock by the
forefathers of sedentary European settlers, particularly in the arid regions.
They brought along their traditional beliefs, customs, and practices as they
migrated to more humid areas. (see map 3)
Some occasional instances exist where they adjust to the demanding and
harsh conditions of their new surroundings. For instance, consider the
Boers in South Africa, who were initially compelled to embrace a nomadic
herding way of life but gradually reverted to their original culture as
transportation improved. Livestock ranching is an extensive and semi-
sedentary activity in which the rancher, often known as a cowboy, operates
as a business proprietor. They commonly engage in large-scale operations
and offer meticulous care for their livestock. The choice of animals and the
specific products they specialize in can vary from one region to another.
Cattle, sheep, and goats are the most frequently employed draft animals.
Location :- Currently, livestock ranching is primarily situated in the
Americas, Australia, the Republic of South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Peru,
and New Zealand. The closest counterpart to nomadic herding is ranching.

Map 3. Areas of livestock ranching around the world

Characteristics :-
1. Livestock ranchers focus exclusively on animal husbandry, even though
they inhabit arid or semi-arid regions where both animal and crop
farming could be viable.
2. Livestock ranchers maintain permanent places of residence and
operate as individuals rather than within tribal organizations.
3. Livestock ranching varies from nomadic herding in several significant
ways:
Continuous vegetation cover is maintained.
Migration is minimal or absent.
Ranches are managed using scientific principles.
Animals are raised for sale.
Commercial grazing contributes to the growth of towns and
communication networks.

3. Shifting cultivation:- Shifting cultivation is essentially a land rotation

system primarily found in the humid low latitudes, particularly in
rainforests and their adjacent regions. The challenging climatic conditions
in this area compel indigenous communities to relocate their cultivated
plots every few years, typically ranging from one to three years, although
this duration can vary based on local circumstances. Due to its practice by
various communities, shifting cultivation is known by various names,
including milpa in Central America, conuco in Venezuela, roca in Brazil,
masole in Zaire, ladang in Malaysia, humah in Indonesia, caingin in the
Philippines, taungya in Myanmar, tamrai in Thailand, poda in India, and
chena in Sri Lanka. (see map 4)
Location:- Shifting cultivation is the traditional method of soil utilization,
typically practiced in tropical rainforests as well as tropical lowlands and
hills in Central America, Africa, and Southeast Asia, including Indonesia.

Map 4. Areas of shifting cultivation around the world

Characteristics :-
1. Shifting cultivation sites are typically chosen within virgin forests by the
elder members of the community.
2. Forests are cleared using fire, and the resulting ashes are employed as a
form of natural fertilizer. This method is commonly referred to as "Slash
and Burn agriculture."
3. These fields are generally small, ranging from 0.5 to 1 hectare in size,
scattered throughout the forest. They are separated from each other
either by dense underbrush or by sections of forest cover.
4. Basic tools like hoes, sickles, and sticks are used for cultivation.
5. Commonly cultivated crops include starchy foods such as tapioca,
yams, maize, millet, beans, upland rice, and bananas.
 6. Short periods of crop cultivation alternate with long periods of fallow,
leading to a practice of field rotation rather than crop rotation
7 This method of cultivation is primarily adopted by indigenous tribes
residing in tropical rainforest regions.

4. Rudimentary tillage :- This is a more advanced form of subsistence

agriculture commonly found in tropical lowlands. In this system, fallow
fields are frequently utilized again, and the communities engaged in this
type of crop cultivation typically establish permanent settlements. The
prevalent methods include crop rotation, intensive tillage, the use of
rudimentary tools, and a greater reliance on human labor.
Location :- This form of agricultural activity is practiced in various regions,
including Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines), Sri
Lanka, West Africa, South and Central America.
Characteristics :-
1. Crop rotation is more common than field rotation.
2. Domesticated animals serve dual purposes, being utilized for both
draught work and as sources of milk and meat.
3. Crops such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, paddy, millets, maize,
sorghum, root crops, and bananas are cultivated.

5.Intensive Subsistence Tillage (with paddy dominance) :- Intensive

subsistence tillage is primarily practiced in the Asian monsoon region,
South and East Asia, and the adjacent wet islands. There exists another pair
of agricultural systems that differ significantly from the rest, primarily
dependent on whether rice is present in the agricultural association. In
areas where the growing season is sufficiently long to mature rice, the
highly intensive farming methods support dense rural populations, and this
can be observed in various parts of the world. While three different crop
types are associated with three types of fields, the critical factor for this
land utilization is the presence of irrigable deltas, floodplains, coastal
plains, and terraces primarily dedicated to rice cultivation. In regions with
hot climates or where water is limited, or cold weather interference occurs,
two crop cycles can be harvested in a single year. Rice yields more grain per
acre than any other crop. (see map 5)
Location :- The predominant form of intensive subsistence tillage, focusing
on paddy cultivation, is primarily practiced in tropical Asia. This method is
chiefly employed in countries such as China, Japan, India, Bangladesh,
Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, the Philippines, and others.
 Map 5. Areas of Intensive subsistence tillage (with and without paddy
dominance) around the world

Characteristics :-
1. Farming is conducted intensively, often involving double or multiple
cropping, where multiple crops are grown on the same land within a
single year.
2. In regions where only one paddy crop can be cultivated, the fields are
typically utilized during the dry season to cultivate other food or cash
crops, such as sugarcane, tobacco, oilseeds, and jute.
3. Asian farmers are now achieving even higher yields per acre due to the
recent adoption of improved hybrid rice varieties.
4. Traditional wet paddy agriculture heavily relies on manual and hand
labor.
5. Cattle and buffalo serve as draught animals in many monsoon regions.
6. In this form of agriculture, land holdings are typically quite small. Farm
sizes have also been consistently subdivided over many generations,
resulting in extremely small plots.

6. Intensive Subsistence Tillage (without paddy dominance):- In regions

where the adjacent nation is often referred to as "rice country," agricultural
productivity is adversely affected due to insufficient moisture or
unfavorable weather conditions. As a result, a significant portion of the crop
remains unproductive throughout the year. These challenges prompt a
subtle yet profound transformation in the field of agricultural machinery.
Many traditional cereal crops are replaced by rice as the primary crop, with
none of them being able to yield cereals. The prevailing climatic conditions
render paddy cultivation unfeasible, especially in areas lacking natural
features like deltas, floodplains, and coastal regions that serve as drainage
basins. In such regions, irrigation is employed to the extent possible, even
on a smaller scale. (see map 5)
Location :- It includes parts of interior India (Punjab, Haryana, and Western
U.P.), North-East China, Northern Japan, North Korea, and parts of South-
East Asia.
Characteristics :-
1. Land use pattern is intensive, and human power is the primary
workforce.
2. Frequent crop failures and Famines hit the region.
3. Some of the crops grown here are, Wheat, Soya bean, Barley, Millets,
Pulses, and Oilseeds, which are grown intensively.
4. Irrigation is generally used in these areas, due to lack of soil moisture.

7.Commercial Plantation :- The distinctive practice of commercially

cultivating cash crops such as tea, rubber, coffee, oil palm, cocoa, cotton,
sugarcane, pineapples, and bananas on large estates or plantations
represents a unique form of tropical agriculture. This approach to
agriculture was first introduced by European colonists in their overseas
territories. The term "plantation agriculture" originally referred primarily to
British settlements in the Americas rather than the intra-estate agriculture
found in North America, the West Indies, and Southeast Asia, which was
primarily cultivated by laborers of African or other non-white descent.
Location :- The concept of plantation agriculture initially developed within
British colonies in America and later extended to encompass large estates
in North America, the West Indies, and Southeast Asia. These estates
primarily relied on labor from individuals of African or other non-white
backgrounds who lived on the estate and were subject to the authority of
the owners or managers. (see map 6)

Map 6. Areas of commercial plantation around

the world
Characteristics :-
1. Plantation farming involves the cultivation of a specific tropical or
subtropical crop on a dedicated land holding primarily for commercial
purposes.
2. Adverse climatic conditions, such as strong winds, disease prevalence,
and soil degradation, often pose challenges and can even hinder the
establishment and development of plantations.
3. Plantation estates are typically extensive and are primarily located in
sparsely populated regions. Farm sizes can vary widely, ranging from 40
hectares in places like Malaya, India, to as much as 60,000 hectares in
countries like Liberia.
4. Labor on plantations is usually abundant but comprises disciplined yet
unskilled workers.
5. The key characteristics of commercial plantations include :-
Estate-based farming.
Ownership by foreign entities with the utilization of local labor.
Scientific and systematic management of farming operations within the
estates.
Substantial capital investment.

8.Mediterranean Agriculture :- In regions with a Mediterranean climate,

characterized by winter rain and summer drought, a distinctive form of
agriculture has evolved. This is regarded as the most favorable type of
agriculture, representing a longstanding and stable connection between
people and the land. In these areas, both subsistence and cash crops are
grown, with the specific crop emphasis depending on the amount of rainfall
received. Farming methods also vary from one region to another. For
instance, in Italy, there is minimal dependence on manual labor, whereas in
California, a significant portion of the work is performed manually.
Agriculture in this region is highly intensive, and horticulture is well-
established, resulting in significant yields. The Mediterranean Lands are
often acclaimed as the "Orchard Lands of the World."
Location :- Agricultural typology is primarily observed along the coastal
regions of the Mediterranean Sea in Europe, Asia Minor, and the North
African coastal strip. Beyond these Mediterranean shores, this system is
also present in areas such as California (USA), Central Chile, the
southwestern region of Cape Province (South Africa), and the southwestern
part of Western Australia. (see map 7)
 Map 7. Areas of shifting cultivation around the
world
Characteristics :-
1. Winters in the Mediterranean region are characterized by mild and wet
conditions, while summers are hot and dry. The agricultural landscape in
this area has been significantly influenced by the long, rainless summers
and the presence of winter rains, necessitating the use of artificial
irrigation methods during the dry summer periods.
2. These conditions give rise to four sub-types of agriculture in this region:-
Orchard farming, which includes the cultivation of citrus fruits, olives,
and figs.
Viticulture, focusing on the growth of grapes for wine production.
Cereal and vegetable cultivation, encompassing crops like hard winter
wheat, barley, rice in river plains, as well as green and leafy vegetables,
lentils, beans, onions, tomatoes, carrots, and sugarbeet.
Limited animal husbandry, involving goats, sheep, dairy farming, and
fishing.

9.Commerical Farming :- Commercial grain farming is yet another market-

oriented form of agriculture in which farmers concentrate on the cultivation
of wheat. This represents a relatively recent development, primarily
stemming from the Industrial Revolution, and it has taken hold in the
temperate grasslands located within the mid-latitudes. The land previously
utilized for extensive grain cultivation was formerly designated for either
animal husbandry or livestock ranching, and in some areas, it was occupied
by nomadic herders. In this type of agriculture, there is a standardization in
maintaining a balance between crop cultivation and livestock. The methods
employed are not characterized as either intensive or traditional but rather
progressive, making extensive use of machinery.
Location :- Prairies in North America, Ukraine, Western Europe, Argentina in
South America, the southern regions of Australia, and in Punjab, Haryana,
and the plains of western Uttar Pradesh in South Asia have all adopted this
form of crop specialization. The major wheat-producing regions extend
across the Canadian and American Prairies, the Argentinean Pampas, the
Eurasian Steppes, the South African Velds, and the Australian Downs. (see
map 8)

Map 8. Areas under Commercial farming Crop &

Livestock Farming, Commercial Dairy & Gardening
Characteristics :-
1. Extensive commercial grain farming is characterized by:-
Large farm size
Extensive use of heavy machinery
Limited utilization of irrigation and fertilizers
Relatively low production rates
Farms located far from markets.
2. The widespread adoption of machinery in commercial grain farming
allows for large-scale operations, with planting and harvesting grain
being more fully mechanized than in any other agricultural sector.
3. Wheat serves as the primary crop, with maize, barley, and oats being
other significant crops. The wheat production regions are categorized
into two belts:-
Winter wheat belt.
Spring wheat belt.
4. In the United States, some farmers migrate from other areas to work on
these agricultural farms. Two terms, "Sidewalk farmers" and "Suitcase
farmers," are commonly used to refer to these migrant farmers.

10.Commercial Livestock and Crop Farming :- This method of agriculture is

commonly referred to as "mixed cultivation" or 'mixed farming.' It
represents one of the three branches of medieval agriculture in Central
Europe, each with distinct approaches to combining crops and animals,
albeit in varying proportions. Mixed farming is among the most advanced
agricultural systems primarily encountered in the world's most developed
regions. In this system, the balance between crops and livestock is
determined by factors such as the farm's location, soil fertility, land's
capacity to support animals, market demand, crop and animal prices, and
governmental regulations.
Location :- It is present across Europe, spanning from Ireland in the western
part, extending through central Europe to Russia. Additionally, it can be
found in North America, specifically east of the 98th meridian, as well as in
the Pampas region of Argentina, Southeast Australia, South Africa, and New
Zealand. (see map 9)

Map 9. Areas under Commercial livestock and crop

farming
Characteristics :-
1. Mixed farming is primarily characterized by the integration of both
livestock and crops on farms, with standardized ratios between them.
2. Mixed farms are distinguished by substantial investments in farm
machinery and buildings, as well as extensive utilization of fertilizers.
They also rely on the expertise of farmers who need comprehensive
knowledge of various aspects of farming to effectively cultivate and
market their diverse range of products.
3. Mixed farming is predominantly associated with densely populated
regions where urbanized, industrialized societies reside.
4. Multiple crops are cultivated, with cereals typically dominating the land
use, and the choice of the leading grain varying according to the
prevailing climatic and soil conditions.
5. Within this system, three distinct agricultural subsystems can be
identified :-
Mixed Farming :- involving the cultivation of crops alongside raising
livestock.
 Dairy Farming :- characterized by high-intensity livestock farming.
Market Gardening and Horticulture :- focusing on the cultivation of
fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

11.Subsistence Crop and Livestock Farming :- The second of the three

forms of agricultural land acquisition, originating from Northern Europe,
closely resembles the first one. The primary distinction lies in the fact that,
in this type of system, the farmer primarily produces for personal
consumption and may only sell in small quantities or not at all. This
limitation results from a lack of financial resources and an inability to afford
expensive machinery. Consequently, they are unable to use the best seeds
or invest in high-quality breeding stock. As a result, their returns are
relatively low, and they are unable to compete with the high-quality,
dependable production of commercial areas when attempting to sell any
surplus. Without a competitive market incentive, this method remains
rudimentary, perpetuating a vicious cycle.
Location :- It is commonly found in regions of Monsoon Asia, especially in
Southeast and East Asia, as well as in Northern Europe, the Middle East, and
Northern Mexico. (see map 10)

Map 10. Areas under Subsistence agriculture

Characteristics :-
1. The crops and livestock produced are primarily intended for personal
subsistence.
2. This represents a traditional farming method.
3. The high population density exerts significant pressure, leading to
intensive land utilization.
4. Both the quality of seeds and the animal husbandry practices are
subpar.
5. Typically, the level of capital input is unknown.
 6. The principal crops cultivated include rice, wheat, maize, rye, and
barley.
7. Intensive cultivation leads to soil fertility depletion, which farmers aim
to counteract through the application of farmyard manure, compost, green
manure, and chemical fertilizers.
8. In areas with low rainfall, crops such as wheat, barley, maize, jowar, and
bajra may be grown, as seen in regions like parts of Rajasthan and certain
areas of the Indian Peninsula.
9. Sheep and goats hold the utmost significance among domesticated
animals in these regions.

12.Commercial Dairy Farming :- Commercial dairy farming is the third

variant that evolved from the medieval agricultural system of Northern
Europe. In this form of farming, the primary focus is on raising cattle for the
production of various dairy products like milk, butter, cheese, condensed
milk, dried milk, and more. Commercial dairy farming thrives in areas where
these products can be readily consumed in nearby urban markets.
Historically, the largest consumer base for these agricultural products has
been the urban populations of northern European cities.
Location :- Dairy farming, which involves raising cattle for the production of
milk and milk products such as butter, cheese, condensed milk, and dried
milk to meet the demand in urban areas, is a prevalent practice. It is
primarily carried out in regions including Europe, Northern USA, Canada,
Australia, New Zealand, Denmark, Netherlands, Belgium, Finland, France,
and Switzerland. Dairy farming constitutes 40 percent of agricultural
income in these areas. (see map 11)

Map 11. Areas under Commercial Dairy

Farming with intensity
Characteristics :-
1. Dairy farming demands substantial capital investment but offers high
returns.
2. The number of cattle in dairy operations varies from one country to
another and from one farm to another, depending on the size of the
landholding. In the United Kingdom, for instance, the typical ratio for
cattle pasture is one cow per acre. Meanwhile, in northwest Europe, the
average dairy cattle herd size is merely five cows per farm.
3. Europe, Russia, Anglo America, Australia, and New Zealand collectively
account for nearly 80% of the world's total milk production.
4. This type of agriculture necessitates more labor than crop farming due
to its association with animal husbandry. However, with the
development of technology, the amount of labour involved has reduced.

13.Specialized Horticulture :- Horticulture refers to the specialized

cultivation of vegetables, fruits, and flowers. A distinctive feature of
specialized horticulture is the production of fruits and vegetables in kitchen
gardens and home orchards. This practice is primarily observed in the
wetland areas of the mid-latitude Mediterranean region. Additionally, it is
commonly found in proximity to large metropolises, as the products are
perishable and need to be consumed quickly. While production is
contingent on demand, it often yields high returns.
Location :- Horticulture has seen significant development in densely
populated industrial regions of northwest Europe, including countries such
as Britain, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, France, Italy, as well as in
Argentina and certain parts of North America. (see map 8)
Characteristics :-
1. Horticultural farms are typically small in size and are located in areas
with well-established communication links to consumption centers. In
fruit and vegetable gardening, the land is intensely cultivated, and soil
fertility is maintained through the heavy application of manures and
fertilizers.
2. Market gardens are managed with a scientific approach to achieve
optimal yields and attractive returns.
3. Significant horticultural regions include California, the Rio Grande
bordering Texas, Florida, the Netherlands, the Rhone Valley, and others.
Fruit-producing regions include areas west of Paris, the Rhine Valley, the
lake region of Switzerland, Mendoza and San Juan in Argentina for
grapes, and southwestern Germany for apples.
4. In addition to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, which are known for date
production, India and Southeast Asia are notable for the cultivation of
spices, pineapples, mangoes, bananas, berries, apricots, plums, grapes,
oranges, apples, guavas, and more. These products are grown in diverse
agro-climatic conditions in India and are exported to distant markets,
contributing significantly to the annual revenue.

14. As per Whittlesey, a 14th category can be added, which is land totally
unused for agriculture
 MERITS OF THIS
CLASSIFICATION

1. It offers a classification and description of the world's primary

agricultural regions typically utilized in atlases and similar resources.
2. Statistical analysis is applied to determine the characteristics of the five
fundamental functional forms.
3. By mapping the primary order system, a comparative analysis of
agricultural regions becomes achievable on a single map.
4. This study emphasizes the tangible elements within the agricultural
landscape.
5. This classification serves as a foundation upon which additional
enhancements and refinements can be proposed.

LIMITATIONS

1. The foundations for classification, including institutional, cultural, and

political factors, are dynamic and subject to continual change due to
shifts in local, national, and global circumstances. As a result,
Whittlesey's framework has recently undergone modifications by
Thoman Fryer.
2. Whittlesey's classification does not account for certain pertinent
indicators such as land tenancy, land ownership, holding size, land
fragmentation, government policies, and so on.
 CONCLUSION

In the contemporary world, agriculture has a very important role to play, it

is still, by far the most important activity carried out by humans. The land
on which this agriculture is practiced (cultivable land), thus becomes the
most important resource to mankind, which needs to be preserved, and
used as efficiently as possible, so as to maximise the agricultural output.
The concept of agricultural systems helps us to get an insight about the
various types and forms of agriculture practiced, their characteristics and
their relation to geographical space. Since the arrival of humankind on this
earth, agriculture has been undergoing rapid developments, more so, in the
recent years, due to the boom in technological advancements, and the IT
and AI revolution. Agricultural productivity will ultimately depend on the
utilisation and preservation of land by humans, for which sustainable
development would be a key.

In this assignment, we have discussed the agricultural systems of the world,

and tried to understand them by using Whittlesey’s classification, which
divides the world into 13 major agricultural regions, with a 14th category
which is land totally unused for agriculture. The assignment has been
illustrated with maps, wherever found necessary. Whittlesey’s classification
of the agricultural systems of the world, though, not without its own
shortcomings, is one of the best classification to study and understand
agricultural systems, and is still very much relevant in the current scenario.