Presently, agroforestry encompasses 8.65% of India’s overall land area, amounting to roughly 28.42 million hectares. The latest report highlights the advantages of repurposing underused regions, particularly wastelands, for agroforestry purposes.
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NEW DELHI (India CSR): NITI Aayog launched the Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal. This initiative uses remote sensing and GIS to map agroforestry potential across India, supporting greening efforts at national, state, and district levels.
Meaning of Term GROW Initiative
GROW initiative is an acronym for the Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry initiative. Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry is a government of India initiative.
Portal and Report
Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report and portal was launched on Feb 2024 in national capital New Delhi by Prof Ramesh Chand, Member, NITI Aayog at NITI Aayog.
This multi-institutional effort led by NITI Aayog utilized remote sensing and GIS to assess agroforestry suitability across all districts in India.
The “Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)-Suitability Mapping” portal Bhuvan. It allows universal access to state and district-level data.
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Purpose of GROW Initiative
- The GROW initiative represents a monumental step towards achieving sustainability and resilience in land use.
- By harnessing the power of technology and collaborative expertise, India is poised to transform its landscape, turning wastelands into thriving agroforestry systems.
- This initiative not only contributes to environmental restoration but also sets a global benchmark for sustainable development practices.
- As the GROW initiative unfolds, its impact on India’s green cover, carbon sequestration efforts, and agricultural productivity will undoubtedly be profound, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable future.
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Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI)
Using thematic datasets, an Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) was developed for national-level prioritization. The report provides state-wise and district-wise analysis, supporting government departments and industries for greening and restoration projects.
Agroforestry Coverage and Potential in India
At present, agroforestry spans 8.65% of India’s overall land area, amounting to approximately 28.42 million hectares. The recent report highlights the advantageous prospects of transforming underused lands, particularly wastelands, into areas for agroforestry.
GROW: Aligning with India’s Environmental Goals
The GROW initiative is in harmony with the country’s goals, targeting the rehabilitation of 26 million hectares of deteriorated land by 2030 and the establishment of an extra carbon sink capable of absorbing 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
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Key Objectives for Promoting Agroforestry
During the announcement, Prof Ramesh Chand, a member of NITI Aayog, highlighted the critical need to enhance agroforestry efforts, focusing on three main objectives: reducing the importation of wood and wood products, augmenting carbon sequestration to address climate change both globally and nationally, and improving the utilization of underused arable land.
He emphasized the potential of transforming fallow and cultivable wastelands into productive areas through agroforestry practices. Prof Chand also mentioned that this initiative would yield long-term advantages and encourage the application of space technology in the agricultural sector.
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Enhancing Agroforestry through Collaborative Efforts
In the panel discussion, Dr SK Chaudhari conveyed the utility of the portal in various programs, highlighting the Government of India’s commitment to advancing agroforestry and emphasizing the importance of extension roles. Distinguished panelists who contributed to the dialogue on expanding agroforestry for environmental greening and restoration included Dr A Arunachalam, Director of the ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute in Jhansi; Dr. R Ravi Babu, General Manager, FSDD, NABARD; Dr Ravi Prabhu, Director of Innovation, Investment, and Impact at CIFOR-ICRAF; and Dr Rajiv Kumar, Group Head, RSA, NRSC, Hyderabad.
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Prioritizing Agroforestry in India’s Union Budget
Recognizing the valuable contributions of agroforestry in terms of goods and services, the Union Budget of the Government of India for the fiscal year 2022-23 has emphasized the importance of promoting both agroforestry and private forestry as key priorities.
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Addressing Environmental Challenges in India
India, ranking as the world’s seventh-largest country, confronts several environmental issues, including expanding built-up areas, land degradation, and resource imbalance. A significant portion, roughly 16.96%, of its Total Geographical Area (TGA) is classified as wasteland, necessitating a transformation for productive utilization. To facilitate this change, geospatial technologies and GIS play a crucial role in mapping and prioritizing these lands for agroforestry interventions.
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Advancing Agroforestry for Sustainable Development
As the originator of the National Agroforestry Policy in 2014, India is dedicated to improving the productivity, profitability, and sustainability of land use through agroecology. This approach to land management, which combines the cultivation of trees, crops, and livestock, seeks to address a broad spectrum of challenges related to food, nutrition, energy, employment, and the environment.
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Aligning with Global Environmental Commitments
The efforts to promote agroforestry in India are in sync with various global commitments, including the Paris Agreement, the Bonn Challenge, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the United Nations Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD), initiatives aimed at doubling farmers’ income, and the Green India Mission. This alignment underscores India’s commitment to contributing to global sustainability and environmental restoration efforts.
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National Agroforestry Policy, 2014: Paving the Way for Timber Self-Reliance
The National Agroforestry Policy of 2014 (NAP, 2014) was a significant step towards addressing the growth impediments within India’s agroforestry sector. The policy identified several critical issues that have hindered the sector’s development:
- Lack of Integrated Farming Systems Approach: The absence of a comprehensive approach that integrates various agricultural and forestry practices has limited the sector’s efficiency and productivity.
- Restrictive Regulatory Regime: The presence of a stringent regulatory framework, coupled with insufficient efforts to liberalize these restrictions, has stifled growth.
- Shortage of Quality Planting Material: The unavailability of high-quality seeds and saplings has been a significant roadblock in achieving optimal yield and quality in agroforestry produce.
- Inadequate Institutional Finance and Insurance: The lack of financial support and insurance coverage for agroforestry projects has deterred investment and expansion.
- Weak Market Access: Limited market access for agroforestry products has restricted the sector’s profitability and growth prospects.
- Absence of Suitable Institutional Mechanism: The lack of an effective institutional framework has impeded coordinated action and support for the agroforestry sector.
- Non-conducive Environment for Timber Production: The unfavorable conditions for promoting timber production from domestically grown trees through agroforestry have led to an increased reliance on imports, thus exerting fiscal pressure on the country.
The economic burden of wood and wood product imports has been significant for India, with the nation becoming a net importer and incurring a cost exceeding ₹388 billion (approximately Rs. 38,000 crore). This trend highlights the urgent need for a policy-driven push towards self-sufficiency in timber production to meet the growing domestic demand, which is projected to rise to 153 million m^3 in 2020 from 50 million m^3 in 2000.
Import Trends of Wood and Wood Products in India
The table below illustrates the escalating value of India’s wood and wood product imports from the financial year 2011 to 2018, showcasing a steady increase in import costs over the years.
| Year | Import in Billion Rupees |
|---|---|
| 2011 | 168.95 |
| 2012 | 240.78 |
| 2013 | 276.57 |
| 2014 | 309.81 |
| 2015 | 334.13 |
| 2016 | 330.4 |
| 2017 | 328.2 |
| 2018 | 388.5 |
Source: Statista (2020), “Import value of wood in India from FY 2011 to FY 2018.” Available at Statista, last accessed on 25 July 2020.
This data underscores the growing economic impact of wood imports on India and the critical need for strengthening the agroforestry sector as outlined by the National Agroforestry Policy, 2014.
Embracing a Greener Future: How the GROW Initiative Can Propel Your Corporate Sustainability
GROW is more than just an initiative; it’s a call to action. By actively participating, you can build a stronger, more sustainable future for your business and the planet. So, join the movement, embrace the power of agroforestry, and pave the way for a future where growth and sustainability go hand-in-hand. Let’s grow together, for a greener tomorrow.
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The Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) initiative isn’t just a government program; it’s a transformative opportunity for forward-thinking corporations to align their sustainability strategies with a national movement driving positive environmental and economic change. By harnessing the power of agroforestry, GROW paves the way for a future where businesses can thrive alongside a healthier planet. Let’s explore how your company can benefit from being part of this groundbreaking initiative:
Environmental Impact: Become a Champion for a Greener Landscape
Mitigate Climate Change: GROW aims to create an additional carbon sink, and your participation helps accelerate this effort. By supporting agroforestry projects, you directly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Boost Biodiversity
Agroforestry fosters diverse ecosystems, creating havens for various species. Your involvement helps protect and rejuvenate habitats, promoting a thriving natural world.
Combat Land Degradation
India faces significant challenges with wastelands. By participating in GROW, you help restore degraded lands, ensuring responsible land management and fostering healthier ecosystems.
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Economic Opportunities: Unlock Shared Value and Growth
Sustainable Sourcing
Invest in agroforestry-based supply chains for wood, food, or other products. This ensures responsible sourcing practices, creating long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Community Development
Empower rural communities through GROW projects. By creating jobs and income opportunities through agroforestry, you contribute to inclusive and sustainable development.
Innovation
Become a partner in developing new agroforestry technologies or products. This fosters innovation and positions your company at the forefront of a sustainable future.
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Brand Reputation: Build Trust and Credibility
Demonstrate Commitment
Showcase your dedication to environmental responsibility by aligning with a government-backed initiative. This builds trust and strengthens your brand image among consumers increasingly concerned about sustainability.
Tell a Compelling Story
Share your involvement in GROW to connect with environmentally conscious consumers. By highlighting your positive impact, you create a powerful narrative that resonates with your audience.
Future-Proof Your Business
Embracing sustainable practices is no longer optional, it’s essential for long-term success. By participating in GROW, you future-proof your business and demonstrate leadership in sustainability.
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Getting Involved: Become an Active Participant in Change
Explore the GROW Portal
Access valuable data and insights to identify potential partnerships or investment opportunities. The portal provides comprehensive information on specific projects and regions, allowing you to tailor your involvement.
Engage with Stakeholders
Partner with NGOs, research institutions, or local communities involved in GROW projects. Collaboration is key to maximizing the impact of this initiative.
Advocate for Agroforestry
Support policies and initiatives that promote the expansion of agroforestry practices. By lending your voice, you can influence regulations and create an enabling environment for sustainable business practices.
References:
- Statista. 2019. “India – value of wood imports 2019.” Available at Statista.
- WWF – India. 2012. “Timber, Pulp and Paper.” Available at WWF – India.
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