Trees for Villagers™

Why Trees?

The villagers in Digras Tehsil, Yavatmal District of Maharashtra face various challenges such as environmental degradation, limited economic opportunities, and health issues. These issues are exacerbated by factors like poor soil quality (1) and socio-economic constraints (2). Small-scale farmers in the region struggle with limited access to land, declining soil fertility, and reduced crop yields, impacting their market access and economic sustainability. The scarcity of water resources in the area leads to agricultural distress, frequent crop failures, and low returns from cultivation (3). Plantation of trees can offer a multifaceted solution to alleviate some of these problems. Firstly, tree plantations can help in environmental conservation by preventing soil erosion, improving soil fertility, and enhancing biodiversity (4). This can lead to better agricultural productivity and increased crop diversification. The presence of trees can also act as a buffer against temperature extremes, providing shade and reducing the impact of heatwaves or cold spells. Furthermore, tree plantations can offer economic benefits to the villagers by providing employment opportunities. This can diversify income sources and improve livelihoods, especially in rural communities. Additionally, the cultivation of certain tree species can enhance soil health, leading to better crop yields and overall agricultural sustainability. Our ‘Trees for Villagers™’ project can play a crucial role in addressing the challenges faced by the villagers. By promoting environmental sustainability, improving soil and groundwater quality, mitigating temperature extremes, and providing economic opportunities, tree plantations can contribute significantly to enhancing the overall well-being and resilience of the community.

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. In this tree plantation initiative, we have planted species such as Amla (Emblica officinalis), rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that enhance immunity and overall well-being. Its medicinal properties also support the digestive system and liver function, making it a valuable asset for traditional medicine. Karanj (Pongamia pinnata) is a versatile tree that offers a range of benefits, from its oil-rich seeds used for biofuel and cosmetics to its leaves and bark which possess anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, it supports soil health and fertility, making it a valuable asset for sustainable agriculture. Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo), a highly valued tree for its durable timber, used in furniture and construction, while its leaves provide a nutritious fodder for livestock. Its shade also provides a habitat for wildlife, and its roots prevent soil erosion, making it a vital component of ecosystem conservation. Kasid (Cassia siamea) is a medicinal treasure, with its flowers and leaves used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Its seeds contain a natural pesticide, making it a valuable asset for organic farming practices. Custard Apple (Annona squamosa) is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting the digestive system and immune function. Sagwan (Tectona grandis) is a highly prized tree for its durable timber, used in furniture and construction, while its leaves provide nutritious fodder for livestock

Social Impact

Tree plantation offers numerous benefits that span across multiple aspects. Trees can help enhance soil fertility, prevent soil erosion, and promote biodiversity, thereby supporting agricultural productivity and sustainability. By promoting groundwater recharge and improving water quality, trees can help alleviate issues related to contaminated groundwater. Trees play a key role in absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. A mature tree can absorb up to 20 kg of CO2 each year. Additionally, trees can aid in conserving water resources, and providing shade, which is particularly advantageous in regions facing water scarcity and agricultural challenges.  In conclusion, planting trees in the Yavatmal area of Maharashtra can be a valuable strategy to tackle the specific problems encountered by the community.  We provide employment opportunities to the local villagers in our plantation site and generate additional income opportunities for them. The local communities also earn added income from the plantation produce. They can also supplement their income from fruits and timber once our trees mature. We believe in empowering women by generating employment opportunities for them as well. Inclusivity is a key commitment across all our tree plantation sites. By boosting agricultural productivity, conserving water resources, and fostering environmental sustainability, tree plantations can play a vital role in enhancing the overall well-being and resilience of the villagers in the region. Trees for Villagers™ solely plants trees in Digras Tehsil, Maharashtra, to address environmental degradation, enhance soil fertility, provide economic benefits, and improve community health.

References:

1. Pakhre, D., Karthikeyan, K., Kumar, N., Tiwary, P., & Chandran, P. (2019). Characterization and evaluation of cotton-growing soils of ghatanji tehsil, district yavatmal, maharashtra. Agropedology, 31(1). https://doi.org/10.47114/j.agroped.2021.jun1
2. Chamate, P. (2023). Socio- economic impact of women related schemes on its beneficiaries. International Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 19(2), 424-431. https://doi.org/10.15740/has/ijas/19.2/424-431
3. Jaleel, C. and Chattopadhay, A. (2021). Seasonal migration from beed district of maharashtra: a livelihood struggle of dalit and adivasi households. Contemporary Voice of Dalit, 14(1), 80-87. https://doi.org/10.1177/2455328x211000476
4. Obidzinski, K., Andriani, R., Komarudin, H., & Andrianto, A. (2012). Environmental and social impacts of oil palm plantations and their implications for biofuel production in indonesia. Ecology and Society, 17(1). https://doi.org/10.5751/es-04775-170125     
5. Li, R., Zheng, H., Zhang, C., Keeler, B., Samberg, L., Li, C., … & Ouyang, Z. (2020). Rural household livelihood and tree plantation dependence in the central mountainous region of hainan island, china: implications for poverty alleviation. Forests, 11(2), 248. https://doi.org/10.3390/f11020248