Optimizing revenue: integrating eucalyptus into agri-silvi-horticultural systems in the semi-arid region of North-Western India

Johar, Vishal , Kumar, Rahul , Bisht, Vinita , Vyas, Shalu , Kotiyal, Amit , Khan, Salim

2025-11-03 PROCEEDINGS OF THE INDIAN NATIONAL SCIENCE ACADEMY 2025   null(卷), null(期), (null页)

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This study examines the economic viability of Eucalyptus tereticornis-based agri-silvi-horticultural systems in the semi-arid regions of northwest India, integrating eucalyptus and kinnow (Citrus reticulata) with traditional wheat cropping. Conducted at CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, the research evaluates growth metrics, crop yields, and financial returns of agroforestry systems compared to sole cropping. Semi-arid climates, characterized by limited rainfall and extreme temperatures, demand innovative solutions for sustainable agriculture. The study highlights the superior adaptability of eucalyptus and kinnow in agri-silvi-horticultural and agri-horticultural systems, with growth parameters improving over time. Notably, kinnow growth excelled in agri-horticultural systems due to reduced interspecific competition. Although wheat yields were comparatively lower under agroforestry systems, the HD-2967 variety exhibited notable resilience and strong performance within integrated setups. Economic analysis revealed that although the agri-silvi-horticultural system had the highest cultivation costs, it provided exceptional financial returns due to the combined income from eucalyptus and kinnow. Over 6 years, the net return for the agri-silvi-horti system reached Indian Rupee12,46,934 per hectare, outperforming agri-horti systems (Indian Rupee9,23,852) and sole cropping (Indian Rupee406,708). The Benefit-Cost (B: C) ratio was 2.06 for the agri-silvi-horti system, indicating superior economic feasibility compared to agri-horti (1.66) and sole cropping (1.39). The internal rate of return (IRR) further emphasized profitability, with 107% for agri-silvi-horti and 137% for agri-horti systems. This integrated agroforestry approach optimizes resource use, mitigates land degradation, and enhances food security. By providing sustainable raw materials and boosting farmers' socio-economic status, eucalyptus-based agroforestry systems demonstrate resilience against climate variability while creating a sustainable agricultural model for semi-arid regions of northwest India.