Understanding farmer perceptions of trees on farms to increase adoption of agroforestry in Uttar Pradesh

Himanshi  Singh; Devendra Kumar; Sanjay Kumar Verma; R.K. Doharey; Abhinav Singh

doi:10.48165/IJEE.2025.613RN03

Authors

Himanshi Singh ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya https://orcid.org/0009-0001-9528-1217
Devendra Kumar ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya https://orcid.org/0009-0007-4509-9883
S.K. Verma ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya
R.K. Doharey
Abhinav Singh Banaras Hindu University

https://doi.org/10.48165/IJEE.2025.613RN03

Keywords:

Agroforestry, Correlation coefficient, Environmental resilience, Quality planting material, Socio-economic factors

Abstract

A structured survey was administered in 2024-25 in Ayodhya district across various landholding categories to understand the perception of farmers about agroforestry practices that hold a significant potential in improving rural livelihoods and environmental resilience. A sample of 180 farmers was drawn using multistage random sampling. Correlation analysis was used to determine relationships between socio-economic parameters and farmers' perception of agroforestry practices. The results revealed that approximately 77% of the sampled population have been practicing agroforestry, with boundary plantations being the most preferred (45%) among all. Analysis of socio-demographic variables showed a significant correlation with farmers' perceptions. Education, land ownership, training, and knowledge were positively associated with favourable perceptions, while age showed a negative correlation. Major barriers identified during the survey included a lack of technical knowledge, insufficient extension services, and market uncertainties. The results indicated that despite recognizing multiple benefits of agroforestry systems, farmers require better institutional support, access to quality planting materials, and market linkages to expand adoption. Targeted interventions focusing on training programs, extension services, and credit facilities could bridge the gap between positive perceptions and actual implementation of diverse agroforestry practices in the region.

Author Biographies

Himanshi Singh, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya

Ms. Singh is a dedicated research scholar in the Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry at ANDUAT, Ayodhya. She is UGC-NET qualified, with a strong academic foundation in forestry and allied sciences.
Her research interests include agroforestry, natural resource management, climate change, and sustainable agriculture. She is committed to promoting ecological balance and rural resilience through innovative land-use practices.
Devendra Kumar, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya

Dr. Devendra Kumar is an Assistant professor in the department of Silviculture & Agroforestry at ANDUAT, Ayodhya. He is specialized in Agroforestry, Medicinal crops and Natural resource management.
S.K. Verma, ANDUAT, Kumarganj, Ayodhya

Dr. Verma is Professor and Head, Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry at ANDUAT, Ayodhya. He has contributed mainly in areas like research, development and administration at ANDUAT, Ayodhya. He has coordinated many significant plantation drives and community development programmes.
R.K. Doharey

Prof. R. K. Doharey is Head of department of extension education at ANDUAT, Ayodhya. He is specialized in ICT, rural development, gender and climate change.
Abhinav Singh, Banaras Hindu University

Dr. Singh is an Assistant Professor at RGSC, BHU, with specialization in Statistics.
He is dedicated to advancing data-driven research and analytical methods in agricultural and social sciences.

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