Vetiver grass as a nature based solution for soil and water conservation in the Garhwal Himalaya

This study examines the grassroot perceptions surrounding the adoption of Vetiver grass (Chrysopogon zizanioides) as a sustainable solution for soil and water conservation in the Garhwal Himalaya. The study is based on responses from 260 respondents across multiple villages in the region, obtained through a multistage sampling approach, and uses descriptive statistics (frequency counts, percentages) and Pearson correlation as statistical tools. It assesses awareness levels, perceived benefits, barriers to adoption, and the key socio-economic factors influencing the use of vetiver grass in the Garhwal region. The analysis revealed that only 18.85% of respondents were both aware of and using vetiver, while over half (51.53%) had no awareness of the plant and its conservation potential. Although some respondents recognized vetiver’s contributions to soil fertility, fodder provision, and erosion control, a substantial proportion indicated uncertainty or limited knowledge about its benefits. Key barriers identified include a lack of technical support (58.85%), limited awareness (51.54%), and restricted access to planting materials (45%), with a significant portion of respondents unsure about the challenges they faced. These findings highlight a pressing need for targeted intervention, awareness programs, improved extension services, and strengthened supply chains to enable wider adoption. By addressing these gaps, vetiver can play a transformative role in promoting ecological restoration and enhancing sustainable rural livelihoods in the vulnerable regions of the Himalaya.