Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, has been conferred with the Best Agroforestry Project Award at the 5th National Agroforestry Congress held in Hyderabad. The project, titled “Development of Agroforestry Models for Small and Marginal Farmers in Himachal Pradesh,” was recognized for its significant contribution to sustainable agriculture and livelihood improvement.
Project Highlights
The award-winning project focuses on developing and promoting agroforestry models tailored to the needs of small and marginal farmers in the state. These models integrate trees, crops, and livestock to enhance productivity, income, and environmental sustainability. The project has been implemented across various districts of Himachal Pradesh, benefiting thousands of farmers.
Key Achievements
- Development of location-specific agroforestry models for different agro-climatic zones.
- Training and capacity building of farmers through demonstrations and workshops.
- Enhancement of soil health and water conservation through tree-based farming.
- Increased farm income by diversifying produce and reducing input costs.
Recognition and Impact
The award was presented during the congress organized by the Indian Society of Agroforestry and the ICAR-Central Agroforestry Research Institute. The university's Vice-Chancellor, Prof Rajeshwar Singh Chandel, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that it underscores the institution's commitment to innovative research for farmer welfare. The project has also been instrumental in promoting carbon sequestration and climate resilience in the region.
The university's team, led by Dr CL Thakur and Dr KS Pant, has been working closely with farming communities to ensure the adoption of sustainable practices. The recognition is expected to boost further research and extension activities in agroforestry across the state.
