Using advanced remote sensing and GIS technologies, NITI Aayog's GROW initiative aims to transform India's wastelands through agroforestry, according to a just-released report
NITI Aayog has launched the GROW initiative, focusing on transforming India's wastelands through agroforestry. The Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW) report, released on Feb 12, analyses the country's environmental and sustainable land use efforts using advanced remote sensing and GIS technologies.
The report offers a detailed state-wise and district-wise analysis, providing valuable insights for government departments and industries involved in greening and restoration projects.
The report, led by NITI Aayog, used remote sensing and GIS techniques to assess the suitability of agroforestry practices in all Indian districts. Using thematic datasets, it introduced an Agroforestry Suitability Index (ASI) for national-level prioritisation.
As part of the GROW initiative, the "Greening and Restoration of Wasteland with Agroforestry (GROW)-Suitability Mapping" portal has been launched on 'Bhuvan' (https://bhuvan-app1.nrsc.gov.in/asi_portal/), providing universal access to state and district-level data. This portal is expected to enhance government bodies' promotion of agroforestry initiatives.
Currently, agroforestry covers 8.65 percent of India's total geographical area, or approximately 28.42 million hectares. The GROW report highlights the potential of converting underutilised areas, especially wastelands, into productive agroforestry zones. This aligns with national commitments to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030 and establish an additional carbon sink capable of sequestering 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent.
During the launch event, Prof. Ramesh Chand, a Member of NITI Aayog, emphasised the urgent need to promote agroforestry to reduce wood product imports, mitigate climate change through carbon sequestration, and optimise arable land use.
Recognising the crucial role of agroforestry, the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2022–23 prioritised its promotion. As the pioneer of the National Agroforestry Policy in 2014, India is committed to enhancing productivity, profitability, and sustainability through agroecological land use systems. Integrating trees, crops, and livestock, agroforestry addresses challenges related to food security, nutrition, energy, employment, and environmental conservation.
These efforts align with global commitments like the Paris Agreement, the Bonn Challenge, the UN Sustainable Development Goals, UNCCD, the Doubling Farmers' Income initiative, and the Green India Mission.