Silvopastoral Systems in India for Fodder Production and Livestock Sustainability: A Review
Anil Kumar
Department of Agronomy, Eklavya University Damoh, Madhya Pradesh-470661, India.
Ramniwas Vaishnav *
Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalawar (AU Kota) - 326023, Rajasthan, India.
Chinmoy Deori
Department of Agronomy, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Karimganj, Assam, India.
Bamon Timung
Department of Agronomy, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Cachar, Assam, India.
Sanchita Roy
Dev Bhoomi Uttrakhand University, Dehradun- 248007, India.
Rahul Pradhan
Department of Forestry, Silviculture and Forest Management Division, Institute of Wood Science and Technology (ICFRE-IWST), Bengaluru-560003, India.
Ram Prakash
Department of Agriculture, Sant Baba Bhag Singh University, Village khiala, Padhiana, Jhalandhar, Punjab – 144030, India.
Ranjeet Singh Bochalya
Department of Agronomy, Agriculture Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University) Mullana- Ambala Hariyana -133207, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Silvopastoral systems combine trees, forage crops, and livestock to maximize land productivity, conserve biodiversity, and promote the sustainable rearing of livestock. These systems play a crucial role in enhancing the ecological and economic sustainability of livestock production, particularly in developing nations such as India. Livestock farming is a key component of rural livelihoods, providing food security, employment, and farm diversification. However, its sustainability is under threat due to challenges such as fodder shortages, land degradation, and climate change. Silvopastoral systems offer a viable alternative by integrating multipurpose tree species, nutrient-rich forage crops, and resilient livestock species in a synergistic manner. These systems improve soil fertility, enhance carbon sequestration, reduce heat stress in animals, and ensure year-round fodder availability. This review examines the importance, structure, advantages, disadvantages, and future scope of silvopastoral systems in India, focusing on their role in enhancing fodder productivity and ensuring livestock sustainability under changing climatic conditions.
Keywords: Silvopastoral, livestock, forage crops and conservation diversity