Ecosystem service perspectives and accounting in fodder-based agri-food systems

Abstract

Fodder-based agri-food systems play a critical role in sustaining agricultural productivity, livestock production, ecosystem health, and rural livelihoods in India, particularly in semi-arid and rainfed regions. This article examines their contribution through four major ecosystem service categories of provisioning, regulating, supporting, and cultural services. Evidence from farming system research demonstrates that integrated crop-fodder-livestock systems can enhance fodder and food production, farm income-employment, soil health, nutrient cycling, water regulation, biodiversity, and soil biological activity. These systems also conserve traditional knowledge and strengthen livelihood resilience, particularly among rural communities and women. Despite challenges such as fodder shortages, water scarcity, shrinking grazing lands, and climate variability, opportunities exist through improved forage varieties, grass–legume systems, round the year fodder production systems, climate resilient food-fodder systems, agroforestry, residue recycling, and fodder
conservation. Ecosystem services accounting can support recognition of these multiple benefits and guide India towards more circular, climate-resilient, and resource-efficient agriculture.