Agroforestry Systems for Resource Conservation and Livelihood Security in Lower Himalayas

Shivalik ranges span approximately 2.14 million hectares across Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Haryana in northwest India. The excessive exploitation of resources in the region has led to soil erosion, resulting in the rise of riverbeds, siltation of tanks, reservoirs, and other natural water bodies. Soil erosion exceeding 80 t ha-1 yr-1 has been documented in denuded hills at certain locations. Approximately 70% of the population in the region relies on agriculture, but only 18% of the cultivated area is irrigated. Agroforestry, which involves integrating trees and crops, has been recommended globally to mitigate soil erosion and achieve production goals simultaneously. Adopting scientifically proven agroforestry systems in the Shivaliks could reverse the degradation and enhance the economic status of the regions farmers. To date, extensive research has been conducted on the role of agroforestry in resource conservation and livelihood security in the region. This book aims to compile the existing knowledge on the subject, with 20 chapters covering various topics related to agroforestry systems and their impact on soil and water conservation, livelihood security, slope protection through mechanical and vegetative measures, fertility build-up, mine spoil rehabilitation, bamboos, climate change, and carbon sequestration.