Agroforestry Policy Issues and Challenges

Abstract

Agroforestry growth and development is influenced by various policies of the economy like credit, trade, taxation, power, transport, etc. These policies impact the sector either directly or indirectly besides the core forest and agriculture policies which have a larger bearing on the agroforestry policies in the Indian context. However, agriculture is a State Subject, whereas Forestry is in the concurrent list. As per the rules of business, agroforestry research is with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) but its development, extension is not allotted to any ministry or departments. There is a need for better Center—State coordination on agroforestry. A more effective coordinating mechanism between Forest and Agriculture Departments both at the national and state levels is required for which establishment of an apex coordinating body or institutional support mechanism at inter-ministerial level to take policy decisions on agroforestry is need of the hour.