In a significant move towards sustainable agriculture, Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare and Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, launched the Framework for Voluntary Carbon Market in Agriculture Sector and Accreditation Protocol of Agroforestry Nurseries in Delhi today. The initiatives aim to not only benefit farmers but also accelerate the adoption of environment-friendly agricultural practices across the country.
The launch event, attended by Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja, Dr. Himanshu Pathak (Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research), and senior officials from Central and State Ministries, marked a crucial step in aligning agriculture with eco-conscious practices.
Encouraging Voluntary Carbon Market
Shri Munda highlighted the prepared framework to promote Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) in the agricultural sector, emphasizing the need to encourage small and medium farmers to avail benefits of carbon credit. Introducing farmers to the carbon market is expected to not only enhance their income but also contribute to sustainable farming practices.
The minister urged cooperation from both central and state ministries and various organizations connected to agriculture to promote the carbon market for the benefit of farmers. He emphasized collaboration with farmers in southern regions and underlined the importance of focusing on solutions as well as benefits for the farming community.
Strengthening Agroforestry Practices
Discussing the Accreditation Protocol of Agroforestry Nurseries, Shri Munda emphasized its role in strengthening institutional arrangements for the production and certification of planting material on a large scale. This accreditation is poised to promote agroforestry practices across the country, aligning with the objectives and goals of the National Agroforestry Policy.
The minister urged all stakeholders to adopt the accreditation protocol, ensuring the availability of quality planting material and, in turn, assuring returns for farmers. Additionally, he stressed the proper utilization of natural resources, aligning with the commitment of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi towards the development of the agricultural sector and addressing climate change.
Shri Munda concluded by calling for active participation from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and all stakeholders, expressing confidence that these initiatives would contribute to sustainable development in the agriculture sector.
