Mathematical programming in subsistence agriculture

This paper examines the use of mathematical programming models in subsistence agriculture as an example of the use of operational research in developing countries. Differences from developed agriculture are described, and five mathematical programming formulations to cater for the major differences are given. Examples of the use of such models in published literature to produce policy oriented conclusions are summarised. This exemplified a more general point that mathematical O.R. formulations are relevant to policy issues in developing countries providing they are modifications of formulations used in developed countries.