Trees for Rural Communities™

Why Trees?

Rajasthan's Baran district is home to beautiful valleys and wooded hills. Baran, like most of Rajasthan, is primarily dry, receiving rainfall only during the monsoon season. The livelihood of many people in Shahabad tehsil of Baran district is reliant on agriculture, labour, and animal husbandry. Both Kharif and Rabi crops are used for agricultural operations. Rabi cultivation mostly relies on groundwater, while Kharif cultivation is rain-fed.

In the article, ‘Rajasthan Urban Sector Development Investment Program’, Local Self Government Department mentions “Baran, as a district headquarter, has a special administrative status and is a resource rich region. It continues to be the main regional centre for trade and commerce and various socio-economic activities, since a major portion of nearby Tehsils are irrigated by Chambal Canal System which sourced at Kota and reached to Madhya Pradesh. The main economy of the town is regulated by Agriculture and related activities.”^[1]

An article by Central Ground Water Board on Ground Water Scenario Baran District states that, “Rainfall in the district is the main source of ground water recharge. Due to less rainfall and increased groundwater withdrawals, the groundwater levels are declining in some parts of the district.”^[2] Similarly, as stated by Indian Journal of Extension Education, “Along with low rainfall, Rajasthan’s dry and hot climatic conditions worsen the challenges of agriculture and groundwater availability.”^[3] The Central Ground Water Board further highlights that, “Due to pressure of population and improvement in the standard of living, the demand of fresh water for both agriculture and domestic use has substantially increased. This has led to a sharp increase in ground water withdrawal.”

To support the farmers in this region and enable them to supplement their income, our Trees for Farmers® project involves planting trees on the fringes of farmers’ lands to generate employment for them through plantation activities. Additionally, tree plantation will play a crucial role in mitigating these challenges by, “preventing water evaporation from the soil and maintaining soil moisture levels” as stated by the International Journal of Environment and Climate Change. It goes on to say that, “By promoting reforestation and afforestation initiatives, not only can the adverse impacts of dry climatic conditions be mitigated, but the overall sustainability and resilience of agricultural systems in Rajasthan can be enhanced.”^[4] This holistic approach will improve the quality of life and agricultural output of farmers.

Tree Species

We are careful in making sure that the trees for this plantation site are local species that are well-suited to the area so we can create an ecosystem where the trees can thrive. Great care is taken in identifying the most suitable locations for the planting of trees and selecting the appropriate tree species that can adapt to the local climate and soil conditions. This will result in optimal benefits for the communities and the wildlife.

We have selected Amla (Emblica officinalis), Teak (Tectona grandis), Guava (Psidium guajava) and Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana) for this project. These trees were chosen for both their ecological and social benefits. The Amla, Ber and Guava trees produce fruits that are commercially profitable. The Teak species are valued for their wood. 

Social Impact

Trees support the environment, biodiversity, and local communities in multiple ways.*

From pit-digging to the upkeep of saplings, farmers are involved in every step of the plantation process to generate employment for them. Farmers can use the forest produce such as fodder, fruits, fuelwood, etc. and other NTFPs for personal consumption as well as for market sale to generate additional income. Tree plantation activities provide employment for women as many women workers participate in our projects.

Groundwater recharge happens when water from rainfall and other sources soaks into the ground and refills underground water sources. As the trees loosen the soil, water percolates deep into the ground, boosting groundwater levels.This is important in ensuring that farmers get a better yield in their farms and the water requirements of villagers are met adequately.

Trees do an excellent job absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A mature tree can absorb about 20 kg of CO₂ each year. Trees keep the temperature cool and reduce atmospheric stressors.

To ensure that our efforts have a positive impact on the environment, we conduct a rigorous assessment of the planting site and carefully select the trees that align with the location and the community. Additionally, trees support the wildlife population of the region.

*The environmental benefits of the trees reach their full potential as they mature.

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