Agroforestry push: Assam small tea growers receive agar saplings to boost green economy

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaAugust 17, 2025

A program promoting “Integration of Agroforestry with Small Tea Growers” was held on August 15 at Namsungi Gaon Panchayat in Titabor block, Jorhat, aiming to diversify rural livelihoods and strengthen Assam’s green economy.

The event was jointly organised by the Assam Agroforestry Development Board (AADB), ICCo, and the All Assam Small Tea Growers Association (AASTGA). The highlight was the distribution of high-quality Agar saplings to participating farmers, encouraging them to integrate agroforestry with tea cultivation.

The function was attended by several dignitaries, including Kaziranga MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa, who served as the chief guest. Other prominent guests included Dr. Nitin Kulkarni, Director, ICFRE-RFRI; Dr. Sonali Ghosh, CEO, AADB; Dr. Rajib Kr. Borah, Scientist-G; Dr. Satyam Bordoloi, Scientist-E and Head, GTI, ICFRE-RFRI; as well as Alay Barah, Director, ICCo; Rajen Barah, President, AASTGA; Co-District Commissioner Bipanchi Dutta; and Dr. Gitima Das Krishna, Lead for Northeast and Union Territories, Invest India, Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

The program began with an address by Rajen Barah, who stressed the importance of incorporating agroforestry into small tea holdings. Dr. Kulkarni spoke on the ecological and economic value of agroforestry, particularly Agarwood cultivation, while Dr. Borah provided practical insights and answered farmers’ queries.

In his address, MP Kamakhya Prasad Tasa highlighted the potential of Agarwood in strengthening Assam’s rural economy and empowering farmers through sustainable practices.

The event concluded with the symbolic distribution of Agar saplings to farmers, marking what organizers described as a “step toward sustainable agroforestry and inclusive growth” in Assam’s tea sector.