The Tamil Nadu Government has introduced a novel Agroforestry Policy, aimed at creating an alternate economic avenue for farmers without disrupting their agricultural activities. According to the State Economic Survey, agriculture has been witnessing negative growth annually, making it unprofitable for farmers.
To address these challenges, the Tamil Nadu Government is introducing this unique policy to enhance farmers’ revenue through alternative farming methods. The announcement was made during the Assembly presentation of the Agriculture Budget in 2025. After a year, Chief Minister MK Stalin released the policy on Wednesday.
The policy emphasizes cultivating high-income plants such as teak, timber, bamboo, mango, sandalwood, and mahogany. It also focuses on simplifying procedures for cutting and selling these plants in the market without legal obstacles.
In an effort to strengthen the agriculture sector, the government is taking responsibility for policy implementation. To mitigate climate change impacts, the policy stresses increasing carbon storage and developing special agroforestry zones. It also aims at reviving barren land and converting it into cultivable land.
The policy further seeks to supply quality agro plants to farmers, thereby increasing their income and fostering connections between farmers and forestry product marketing companies. To augment farmers’ income, the policy also highlights the importance of green forage cultivation, which is currently in shortage as fodder. The policy encourages moving away from conventional methods, emphasizing essential training in agroforestry and preparing value-added products.
