Promoting Agro-Forestry

Promoting AGRO-FORESTRY

MARI has seamlessly aligned with the Agro-Forestry initiative by working at the grassroots level with small and marginal farmers, focusing on sustainable, low-investment solutions that deliver long-term ecological and economic benefits. The organization has played a pivotal role in mobilizing communities, providing capacity-building support, and facilitating access to quality horticultural seedlings. Through a deep understanding of local agrarian challenges, MARI has promoted diversified cropping systems, intercropping practices, and organic farming methods, which together improve soil health, water conservation, and biodiversity.

By guiding farmers on the adoption of rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and composting techniques, MARI has enabled them to optimize natural resource usage while reducing input costs. The organization’s commitment to sustainable land use is evident in the plantation of over 16,000 seedlings across individual and community lands, contributing to carbon sequestration, food security, and rural livelihoods. With continuous technical support and training, MARI has empowered farmers to adopt agro-forestry as a resilient strategy—one that enhances income, strengthens ecological balance, and addresses climate risks effectively.

Objectives

Increasing biodiversity, improving soil health, and enhancing water conservation/retention have been significant achievements from implementing innovative agro-forestry practices. These initiatives have provided farmers with a sustainable and additional source of income. Agro-forestry has played a crucial role in introducing diverse crop varieties, promoting intercropping, and encouraging organic farming methods.
By focusing on soil health, agro-forestry practices have advocated for reduced chemical usage, promoting organic fertilizers and composting techniques that enhance soil fertility and structure. Water conservation measures such as rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation, and efficient water management systems have led to better water retention and reduced water wastage.
These sustainable practices not only improve farm productivity but also offer additional income sources for farmers through the sale of high-demand, sustainably grown products. The collective efforts in agro-forestry ensure that farmers can adopt and benefit from these environmentally friendly practices, securing their livelihoods and contributing to ecological balance.

"Rooted in sustainability, equity, and grassroots empowerment, MARI’s agro-forestry initiative nurtures the land, uplifts small farmers, and restores ecological balance for generations to come."

Achievements

A total of 7,112 horticulture seedlings, including Mango, Custard Apple, Guava, Lemon, and Neredu, were planted on 106 acres of land belonging to 75 small and marginal farmers, promoting agricultural diversity and sustainability.
To increase tree cover, 217 farmers planted 2,455 plants along farm bunds, which helps improve biodiversity and provides additional environmental benefits.
On community land, 6,954 seedlings were planted to meet biomass needs, supporting local energy requirements and contributing to environmental sustainability.
These agro-forestry efforts play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate climate change and reduce associated risks by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
These initiatives not only support environmental health but also empower small and marginal farmers by improving land productivity and fostering community development through sustainable agricultural practices.

Goals

Agro-forestry has created potential for low investment-based and more reliable economic returns for farmers. It has also contributed to meeting other important biomass needs like timber, fuel wood, fodder, and honey production. Farmers have successfully diversified their land use systems with a combination of annual and perennial tree/plantation crops. This diversification includes a range of horticultural fruit species mixed with vegetable crops. The training and in-field technical assistance provided under the project have enabled farmers to acquire valuable horticultural skills and knowledge.

“Through community-driven agro-forestry practices, MARI has not only revived soil and water ecosystems but also empowered farmers with sustainable livelihoods—laying the foundation for a greener, more resilient rural future.”