Agroforestry Systems for Coastal and Island Regions

Abstract

India has a total coastline of 7516.6 km covering ten states and Union Territories and two groups of islands (Andaman-Nicobar & Lakshadveep). Anecdotal and potential agroforestry systems found in coastal and Island regions have been described. Plantation-based multi-storied cropping systems, home gardens, fodder farming on neglected coconut plantations and other areas, multipurpose trees (MPTs) and shrubs on farm lands, farming in forests, systems for saline habitats, aqua-silvi – or horticulture, and alley cropping are the principal systems in this region. Characteristics along with major uses, and mode of propagation of prominent MPTs and shrubs found in different agroforestry systems have been tabulated. Coconut and mangrove based systems have been especially highlighted. Strategies for evaluation and development of agroforestry systems have been mentioned. Suggestions are made as how to secure improved and sustainable productivity and for wider adoption of systems to make better use of degraded lands and how to restrict further deforestation in coastal and island regions.