Landscape resource management for sustainable crop intensification

Abstract Crop intensification is required to meet the food demands of an increasing population. This paper presents data from three paired scaling-up initiatives compare benefits landscape-based interventions over individual plot-level using evidence generated in Indian semi-arid tropics. A range soil and water conservation were implemented a decentralized manner following approach. The approach focused only on balanced fertilizer application improved crop cultivars while primarily addressed moisture availability, which was key reducing risks failure besides aiding productivity gain enhanced land water-use efficiency. These have additionally harvested 50–150 mm surface runoff facilitated groundwater recharge 550–800 rainfall zones. Individual also yield significantly control plots. However, not achieved due limited availability. Landscape-based produced 100%–300% higher production per year, greater income generation (>100%), productivity. found be beneficial terms loss by 75%–90% improving base flow availability 20–75 d year compared untreated watersheds. With increased fallow lands respective watersheds been utilized for cultivation, thereby enhancing intensification. findings study provide critical insights into design approaches suitable projects order both create impact target United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.