Archive · 28 Jun 2025
India Promotes Agroforestry: New Rules for Tree Felling
The government is making it easier for farmers to grow trees on their land.
They want farmers to plant more trees to help the environment and make more money.
New rules explain how farmers can get permission to cut down trees.
Farmers will need to provide information about their trees, and the government will check.
The goal is to simplify the process so farmers can easily manage their trees and benefit from them.
This is a part of a larger plan to help India reach its climate goals.
The Centre issued model rules for tree felling on agricultural land to promote agroforestry.
The aim is to double farmers' incomes, increase tree cover, and mitigate climate change.
State Level Committees will oversee the process, including officials from various departments.
Farmers must register their land on the National Timber Management System and provide plantation details.
Procedures for felling trees vary based on the number of trees, with online applications required for more than ten.
- Who
- The Centre (government) issued the rules, affecting farmers.
- What
- New rules have been issued for felling trees on agricultural land to promote agroforestry.
- When
- The environment ministry sent a letter to state governments on June 19.
- Where
- The rules apply to agricultural lands across India.
- Why
- To promote agroforestry, double farmers' incomes, increase tree cover, mitigate climate change, reduce timber imports and ensure sustainable land use.
- Objective
- Enhance agroforestry and incentivize farmers
- Governing Body
- State Level Committee (SLC)
- Registration Platform
- National Timber Management System (NTMS)
- Land Details
- Must be registered on NTMS
- Application Method
- Online for over 10 trees; photos for 10 or fewer