Agroforestry exempted from these forest conservation regulations in India

The central government has taken an important step in environmental conservation by introducing a new law to regulate forest conservation in India. Under this law, agroforestry and plantations are now exempt from certain regulatory controls, allowing farmers to engage in agroforestry practices on their private land and responsibly harvest timber when necessary.

The central government has also submitted a complete list of 36 species adapted to various agro-climatic zones, which facilitates informed decision-making by farmers.

Agroforestry: Farming and Forestry Blend

Researchers have highlighted the concept of agroforestry as a traditional practice with promising benefits, involving the simultaneous practice of agriculture and forestry on the same land. The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, has published a "Frequently Asked Questions" document that highlights the importance of integrating trees and/or livestock into agricultural facilities.

The document also sheds light on the cultivation of specific species suitable for agroforestry systems and home gardens. Promoting sustainable land management aligns with the broader objective of this initiative.

According to a report by The Hindustan Times, the ministry's recent publication outlines the cultivation of 36 specific species, including the versatile bamboo, meticulously chosen to thrive in various agro-climatic conditions. These guidelines also cover state-specific agroforestry tree species, models developed by the Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education adapted to regional climates and regulations related to logging and traffic.

Species Choice raises concerns

This approach has gained attention for including certain species like subabul (Leucaena leucocephala) and different types of eucalyptus. The IUCN database has recognized Subabul as a weed in over 20 countries, raising concerns about its invasiveness.. Eucalyptus, despite its versatility, has faced criticism for its high water consumption.

The species list includes poplar, teak, shisham, and mahogany. India's teak production is less than 3% of its consumption and teak imports have increased. Approximately 10 million cubic meters of roundwood and 900,000 cubic meters of sawn and chipped teak were imported between 2009 and 2019. Additionally, mahogany imports reached $53.86 million in 2018.

Agroforestry has numerous advantages described in the FAQ document. These include increased agricultural profitability, optimized production through tree-crop-livestock integration, and various uses of tree components like mulch, manure, and biopesticides. It also protects crops and livestock from wind damage, fosters financial diversity through innovative products, and contributes to carbon sequestration.

The Forest Conservation (Amendment) Act 2023, aligning with India's commitment to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2070, establishes sinks of carbon equivalent to 2.5 to 3.0 billion tons of carbon dioxide by 2030.

Keep Reading

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• Know about Regenerative Agriculture practice in India
• Climate smart agriculture practice in India and its examples
• National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture, Explained!

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