Boosting rural livelihoods through scalable tree-based farming solutions
Farming practices in South Asia are set for a major transformation as the capital prepares to host a landmark event dedicated to green cover and agriculture. In a significant collaboration, the Centre for International Forestry Research–International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (CIFOR-ICRAF) and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) are organizing TREESCAPES 2026.
Scheduled from February 5 to 7, 2026, at the National Agricultural Science Complex (NASC), Pusa Campus, this is the first congress in South Asia focusing exclusively on agroforestry and Trees Outside Forests (TOF).
High-Profile Gathering for Green Goals
This three-day congress aims to bring tree-based farming into the mainstream. The goal is simple yet ambitious: create landscapes that can withstand climate change while putting more money in farmers' pockets.
Dignitaries from across the region will attend the inauguration. Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, will lead the proceedings. He will be joined by international leaders, including Nepal’s Agriculture Minister Madan Prasad Pariyar and Maldives’ Minister of State Ahmed Hassan Didi, showcasing a united regional front against climate challenges.
Why This Matters for India
Manoj Dabas, the India Country Director for CIFOR-ICRAF, highlighted the urgent need for this initiative. Currently, tree-based systems contribute to nearly 19.3% of India’s carbon stocks. By expanding these systems, the country could prevent over 2 billion tonnes of CO₂ emissions by 2030.
Economic independence is another key pillar of the TREESCAPES 2026 agenda. India currently spends a staggering USD 7 billion annually on wood imports. Strengthening domestic production through agroforestry will reduce this dependency and support marginal farmers, who make up 86% of the agricultural workforce.
Charting the Future
Discussions will cover vital topics such as digital tools for farming, carbon markets, and water security. With global reports indicating that land degradation affects food yields for billions, this congress serves as a critical platform. It aligns perfectly with India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, proving that agriculture can be part of the climate solution without compromising food security.
