Farm Size Classification: Less than 1 Hectare

Farmers having land area less than 1 hectare are called as:

Correct Answer: Marginal farmer

Farmers holding less than 1 hectare of land are classified as Marginal farmers.

Farm Size Classification in India

• Marginal farm: Less than 1 hectare (less than 2.5 acres).
• Small farm: 1–4 hectares.
• Medium farm: 4–10 hectares.
• Large farm: More than 10 hectares.

Relevance of Farm Size Classification

• Government schemes like SFDA (Small Farmers Development Agencies, 1971) are designed specifically to assist small and marginal farmers.
• India has a very large proportion of marginal farmers — making this classification critical for policy planning.
• Mixed farming is most common among small and marginal farmers.

Memory Tip

Marginal = Minimal land (<1 ha). Small = 1–4 ha. Medium = 4–10 ha. Large = >10 ha.