Narayan G. Hegde

Abstract

Decentralised nursery management is the key to people's participation in Social Forestry. Depending on the facilities, the nurseries were c1assified as permanent, semi-permanent and temporary nurseries. However, with the involvement of the local people, the choices of species are shifting towards Non-Wood Forest Products apart from fruit and timber species. Establishment of nurseries to raise such species at the grassischolar_mains level can encourage the farmers to take up afforestation on their marginal and wastelands while creating opportunities for small farmers and women to generate sustainable livelihood. Quality of the plants further determine the success and profitability of such decentralised nurseries. Selection of suitable tree species and superior varieties, production of plants by vegetative methods, raising of healthy and hardy plants free from pests and diseases, use of suitable containers to transport the plants economically without damage, would contribute to the quality of the nurseries. Macro propagation technique can be useful to multiply most of the tree species at a lower cost than propagules from tissue culture. BAIF has already standardised the macro-propagation protocol for Neem, Bamboo, Casuarina, Shisham, Pongamia and Tamarind species. Use of gunny cloth to wrap the pot mixture with the ischolar_main system has also been developed to facilitate easy transportation of plants.

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Narayan G. Hegde

Abstract

Neem is a versatile tree of the tropics with immense potential to protect the environment while developing sustainable agriculture. Apart from its tolerance to drought and saline conditions, neem can contribute to the income of the rural people through production of seeds. However, neem cultivation is not popular because of lack of awareness about its benefits and economic advantages. To improve the productivity of neem and to popularise the cultivation, particularly among small farmers, it is necessary to formulate a strategy which will include the standardisation of propagation techniques, selection of superior germplasm, development of low cost silvicultural techniques, orientation of farmers to proper collection and processing of seeds and establishment of a strong extension network to highlight the benefits of neem in improving the economy and protecting the environment.

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