Agroforestry: An Integrated Land Management Option for Fragile Ecosystem

Abstract

Since 1965 the progress in Indian agriculture has been remarkable. However, what is being witnessed today are the changes which threaten to undermine future progress with several (ecological, economical, social and cultural) dimensions of un-sustainability and fragility to global and local ecosystems. Poverty, water and air pollution, soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, global warming and many other forms of environmental degradation have raised doubts about the wisdom of the pattern of development which is being currently pursued. The World Commission on Environment and Development [1987] hence stressed the importance of ensuring that today's economic progress is not at the expense of tomorrow's developmental prospects.Degradation of land is a vital issue throughout the world with the particular references to India as it a threat to agricultural productivity. Agroforestry, a land use system is being popular in many countries to protect the land from various types of degradation. Studies have proved that agroforestry can check soil erosion to some extent, increase soil fertility, reduce salinity; alkalinity, acidity and desertification etc. ultimately improve soil health which keeps the land suitable for agricultural production.