Nauni: Agroforestry’s potential for climate change adaptation highlighted

The potential of agroforestry in climate change adaptation was highlighted at the Annual Group Meeting (AGM) of the All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Agroforestry, which concluded at Dr YS Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry in Nauni on Thursday. The three-day event, co-hosted by the university, AICRP Agroforestry, and the Central Agroforestry Research Institute (CAFRI), Jhansi, provided a platform for experts from across India to discuss the future of agroforestry and its critical role in addressing environmental challenges.

Among the key recommendations made at the meeting were the need for quality planting materials, genetically superior and site-specific tree species and improved nursery management to ensure the sustainability of agroforestry models.

The meeting featured five technical sessions, each focusing on different geographic zones and emphasised the importance of agroforestry in climate change mitigation. It was noted that agroforestry can play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, enhancing biodiversity and promoting sustainable land-use practices. Experts also highlighted how agroforestry can address issues like soil health, degraded lands and provide sustainable sources of fodder and organic fertilisers.

A major theme of the meeting was the potential of agroforestry as a strategy for climate change adaptation. Experts agreed that agroforestry could help communities adapt to erratic weather patterns, soil degradation and water scarcity. It was also stressed that collaboration with state agencies is crucial for integrating agroforestry into policy frameworks. Strengthening partnerships between research institutions, government bodies and local authorities is key to ensuring financial support, incentives and extension services for farmers involved in agroforestry.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Rajeshwar Singh Chandel urged scientists to include ecological parameters when educating farmers on the benefits of agroforestry. This, he said, would better communicate the environmental advantages of agroforestry systems to stakeholders.