AGROFORESTRY INTERVENTIONS IN DEGRADED MINED AREAS - A CASE STUDY

Abstract

Opencast mining, deforestation, uncontrolled grazing and unscientific landuse on steep hill slopes has resulted in unstable ecological equilibrium affecting the socio-economic condition of the local people. A detailed study on socio-economic profile, land holdings, inventory of farming assets, livestocks, source of onfarm and off farm income and employment, existing landuse systems and present situation of food, fodder, fuel and fibre as the basic needs was carried out during 1990-91 in the vicinity of degarded mined areas of Mussoorie hills in outer Himalyas of Uttar Pradesh. For better social acceptability, the farmers opinions were taken into diagnosis before designing some agroforestry models. Based on the diagnosed problems, comprehensive designs on various agroforestry aspects are suggested for uplifting the rural economy and rehabilitation of degarded mined areas. Alternative technologies have been put forward to enable farmers to opt for a befitting package. The suggested technologies are based on participatory rural approach as the farmers opinion is incorporated. The approaches are essentialy not top-down but bottom-up in nature calling for ready adoption. Under existing bio-physio-agro-ecological situations, ample strees has been given to integrate various agroforestry components and their scientific management for achieving desired targets.