Agroforestry Systems Adopted by Farmers of Gwalior District in Madhya Pradesh, Central India

Agroforestry, a sustainable land-use practice that integrates trees with crops and/or livestock, is gaining traction among farmers in the Gwalior district of Madhya Pradesh, Central India. This study investigates the types of agroforestry systems adopted by local farmers, focusing on species composition, spatial arrangements, and the socio-economic factors influencing adoption. Data were collected through structured interviews with 100 farmers across various villages, supplemented with secondary sources. The findings reveal that agri-silviculture, agri-horticulture, silvi-pasture, and agri-silvi-horticulture are the predominant systems in use. Tree species such as Azadirachta indica, Dalbergia sissoo, and Mangifera indica are commonly integrated with crops like wheat, mustard, and chickpea. The study highlights that factors such as landholding size, education level, resource availability, and market access significantly affect the adoption of agroforestry. While agroforestry provides multiple benefits—economic diversification, ecological sustainability, and improved livelihoods—challenges such as lack of awareness and institutional support persist. The paper concludes with recommendations to enhance the adoption and effectiveness of agroforestry practices in the region.