Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA)

Introduction 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) is a national agriculture scheme launched by the Government of India in 2016 to support farmers, self-help groups (SHGs), farmer producer organizations (FPOs), and rural entrepreneurs across India. This mission was created to help farmers plant trees with crops or livestock on the same land. It aims to solve the problem of declining soil health, water scarcity, and low farm incomes. Agroforestry helps improve soil fertility, conserves water, and provides farmers with extra income from timber, fruits, and other tree products. The mission also addresses the need for better climate resilience in farming by encouraging mixed land use, which can slow land degradation and make farms more sustainable. Under this scheme, eligible applicants in states like Maharashtra and other regions can apply for support to plant and maintain trees on their farmland. The Agroforestry Mission under NMSA is an important step by the Government of India to create healthier fields and more reliable income for India’s farmers, while also helping the environment for future generations.

Overview of the Scheme

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission on Agroforestry, SMAF) is part of the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA), launched by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India at the central level. Its main aim is to encourage farmers, self-help groups, and organizations to adopt agroforestry – growing trees along with crops or livestock – to boost farm incomes and improve environmental health. The Department of Agriculture and state agriculture departments are the main implementing agencies; the scheme may also involve allied line departments depending on state structure. NABARD is not officially listed as an implementing agency.

Funding Pattern and Coverage

• The funding pattern is mostly 60:40, with 60% central government share and 40% state government share for most states.
• For northeastern and hilly states (like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Jammu & Kashmir), it is 90:10 (Centre:State).
• Union Territories receive 100% central assistance.
• At least 50% of funds go to small and marginal farmers, and a fixed proportion supports women, SC/ST, and vulnerable groups.

The scheme covers support for planting material (seedlings, clones), field inputs (fertilisers), cost of planting and protection, training for farmers, and awareness activities. Financial support is typically up to 50% of the cost, as per official cost norms.

Sectors and Current Status

• Main components: quality planting material, input support, training/capacity building, field-level pilots, limited value addition, and awareness drives.
• The scheme does not provide direct support for machinery, credit, or insurance as primary components.
• SMAF is ongoing and is regularly revised based on feedback from states and farmers (last updated guidelines in 2024-25).

For example, a small farmer in Maharashtra might receive saplings and technical advice to plant timber or fruit trees alongside crops, with part of the cost reimbursed by the scheme. This overview shows how the Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) brings together central support, state implementation, and a clear funding pattern to expand benefits for eligible landholders in India.

Objectives 

The objectives of the Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) are designed to directly improve farming conditions, environmental health, and rural livelihoods by promoting tree planting alongside crops. This agriculture scheme provides a structured approach to help farmers and rural groups adopt agroforestry practices for long-term benefits. Each objective aligns with the core purpose of making farming more sustainable, profitable, and climate-resilient in India.

• Promote the planting of trees with crops and livestock to improve farm income and productivity.
• Increase the area under agroforestry across India for better environmental stability.
• Support small and marginal farmers, groups, and stakeholders in adopting agroforestry techniques.
• Enhance soil fertility, moisture retention, and reduce land degradation by encouraging mixed land use.
• Contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation by increasing green cover on farmlands.
• Provide farmers with additional income sources such as timber, fuelwood, fruits, and fodder from tree plantations.
• Supply quality planting material and promote technology-based solutions for agroforestry.
• Facilitate knowledge sharing, training, and awareness among farmers for effective scheme utilization.
• Encourage community and stakeholder participation in sustainable agriculture schemes like the Agroforestry Mission.
• Coordinate with states to ensure efficient implementation and monitoring of agroforestry initiatives.

Key Features / Benefits 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) offers practical features and benefits that make agroforestry attractive and accessible to farmers and rural communities. Through financial grants, quality support, and targeted assistance, this agriculture scheme empowers a wide group of stakeholders while protecting the environment and boosting farm incomes. Every listed feature reflects the scheme’s official rules, making India’s fields greener and livelihoods more secure.

• Financial support for plantation costs

Farmers can get up to 50% subsidy on eligible expenses for planting trees and related activities, based on government cost norms.

(Example: A marginal farmer in Maharashtra receives a grant covering half of approved costs for planting timber saplings.)

• Special funds for small, marginal farmers and women

At least 50% of funds go to small or marginal farmers, with 30% earmarked for women, and fixed shares for SC/ST groups as per district proportions.

(Example: In a district, part of the funds are set aside for women’s SHGs working on agroforestry.)

• Quality planting material supply

Farmers and FPOs get help to access improved seeds or saplings from certified nurseries, encouraging long-term success.

• Nursery development assistance

Support for setting up small and hi-tech nurseries for quality planting material is available to eligible organizations and local entrepreneurs.

• Peripheral and boundary plantation support

Grants can be used for planting trees along farm boundaries, which helps stabilize soil and protect crops.

(Example: A farmer installs fruit trees on plot borders, qualifying for assistance to boost land productivity.)

• Block plantation incentives

Support is available for both low- and high-density tree planting, suitable for integrating trees with crops – or reclaiming degraded areas.

(Example: Land unsuitable for regular crops is planted with timber blocks for future sales.)

• Capacity building and training

Farmers can attend training programs and demonstrations on sustainable agroforestry models and climate-resilient farming.

• Awareness drives and exposure visits

Funds are set aside for workshops, field visits, and campaigns to spread knowledge about the scheme and modern agroforestry practices.

• Support for local agroforestry models

Different planting methods (boundaries, strip plantations, block plantations) receive funding to fit local climate and farming needs.

• Eligibility based on transit regulations

Only states with relaxed transit rules for selected tree species can apply, making it easier for farmers to sell timber legally.

(Example: Farmers in eligible states can transport and market agroforestry timber without restrictive permits.)

• Environmental and livelihood boost

Agroforestry increases soil fertility, water retention, and carbon sequestration, while providing new income sources like fruits, fodder, or timber.

(Example: After joining the Mission, farmers earn from both crops and tree products.)

• Disaster resilience and crop diversification

Tree planting under the scheme helps farms withstand erratic weather, offering stable income and more crop choices.

Eligibility Criteria 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) has set clear eligibility criteria to ensure its benefits reach the right farmers, groups, and rural businesses. This section details who can apply, what documents are needed, and any special requirements or exclusions, making the application process transparent and accessible.

Farmers: Any individual farmer with legal landholding rights can apply. Generally, applicants must be residents of the project state and may need to meet a minimum age (usually 18+).

(Documents: Aadhaar card, land ownership/lease records, active bank passbook.)

Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Registered and active SHGs, especially those with women members, are eligible. SHGs must have a bank account and maintain regular activities.

(Documents: SHG registration certificate, recent bank statement, group member list.)

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): FPOs must be registered under the Companies Act or relevant laws, show active operations, and meet member count as specified by the official scheme.

(Documents: FPO registration, PAN, member list, functional bank account.)

Entrepreneurs/Startups/MSMEs: Official guidelines sometimes permit agri-business entrepreneurs or MSMEs to apply if they are registered entities and operate within the eligible scheme area.

(Documents: Business registration, GST/UDYAM registration if mandated, address proof.)

Special categories: Priority is given to small and marginal farmers, women, and SC/ST groups with dedicated shares of the scheme’s funds, as per government rules.

(Process: Proof of category such as caste or minority certificate, if claiming reserved share.)

Eligibility by State Policy: Only applicants in states/UTs with relaxed timber transit regulations can apply, since easy wood movement is key to the scheme’s success.

(Check the local list of eligible tree species.)

Not Eligible: Ineligible applicants include those seeking duplicate benefits for the same activity under multiple schemes, and non-compliant entities or groups not meeting activity requirements.

Required documents: Proof of ID (Aadhaar), land records or lease documents, latest bank account passbook, relevant group/organization registration certificate, and quotations for eligible expenses are commonly needed.

Application Process

The application process for the Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) is designed to be straightforward and accessible through official government channels. Applicants can apply online or offline, and the scheme offers support and guidance throughout.

Where to Apply

Applicants can apply online through the official state agriculture department portals or designated websites linked with the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture. Though no single central portal exclusively caters to agroforestry applications, interested applicants should visit their respective State Agriculture Department or Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) websites for specific application links. Offline applications are accepted at nearest Agriculture Offices, ATMA offices, or Block Development Offices.

Registration and Login

For online applications, farmers or groups must first register by providing basic details such as name, mobile number, and Aadhaar. Once registered, login credentials are provided to start the application form.

Application Form Sections

The form typically requires:

• Beneficiary details (name, age, category)
• Land details (ownership/lease documents, survey number, area)
• Selection of agroforestry components/models applied for
• Bank details for direct benefit transfer (account number, IFSC)

Documents to Upload/Submit

• Aadhaar card for identity proof
• Land ownership or lease certificate
• Bank passbook copy
• Group or organization registration certificate (for SHGs, FPOs)
• Quotations or estimates for planting material costs if required

Application Fee

There is no application fee for the Agroforestry Mission.

Acknowledgment and Application ID

On completion, an acknowledgement slip or application ID is generated for tracking the application status.

Verification and Field Inspection

Applications may be verified by local agriculture officers through documents and field visits to confirm eligibility and land suitability.

Approval and Assistance Release

Once approved, financial assistance is released mostly via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s bank account, following official timelines (usually within a few months).

Offline Route

Applicants preferring offline mode can visit local agriculture offices, KVKs, or ATMA centers. Officials provide application forms, assist in filling them, verify documents, and submit on behalf of applicants.

Official Helpline

For assistance, applicants can contact their state agriculture department helpline numbers or visit the nearest Krishi Vigyan Kendra. Email support and toll-free numbers vary by state.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Double-check that the name and Aadhaar details match exactly to avoid rejection.
• Upload clear, correct land ownership and bank documents.
• Submit the application before the deadline to avoid missing out.
• Keep copies of acknowledgment slips and documents submitted for future reference.

Challenges or Limitations 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) comes with many benefits but also faces some common challenges and limitations acknowledged by official sources and agricultural experts. Understanding these helps farmers and stakeholders manage expectations and take practical steps to overcome hurdles.

Challenge: Complex verification and delay in approvals

Verification of land records and beneficiary documents can take time, leading to delays in assistance.

What to do: Keep land ownership and identity documents updated and submit them clearly to speed up the verification process.

Challenge: Limited budget headroom and seasonal windows

The scheme operates within fixed budget limits and specific plantation seasons, which can restrict the number of beneficiaries each year.

What to do: Apply early during the announced application window to avoid missing deadlines.

Challenge: Document mismatch and errors

Mistakes in names or incomplete documentation often cause application rejection.

What to do: Double-check all information and documents before submission, especially Aadhaar and bank details for DBT.

Challenge: Low awareness and technical knowledge among farmers

Many farmers may not know about scheme benefits or proper agroforestry techniques.

What to do: Seek training and awareness programs offered by Krishi Vigyan Kendras and local agriculture offices.

Challenge: Regulatory and institutional coordination gaps

Different rules on tree felling, transit, and departmental coordination can slow agroforestry adoption.

What to do: Understand local state regulations and consult state agriculture department officials before planting.

Challenge: Financial risk and long gestation period

Agroforestry requires upfront investment and takes years to yield returns, making it risky for small farmers.

What to do: Use scheme subsidies wisely and combine agroforestry with short-duration crops for steady incomes.

Challenge: Limited market and credit linkages

Lack of assured markets and agroforestry-specific credit can affect profitability and motivation.

What to do: Explore local markets early, and inquire about government agri-credit schemes as additional finance sources.

Challenge: Inadequate digital access and monitoring

Poor internet connectivity and digital literacy may hinder use of online application portals or monitoring systems.

What to do: Get help from local officials or extension workers in filling online forms and tracking application status.

Government Support & Future Outlook 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) is designed to work in convergence with several other agriculture and rural development schemes to maximize benefits for farmers and rural entrepreneurs. This linkage helps boost income, reduce risk, and improve sustainability beyond what any single scheme can achieve.

The mission connects with Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to include agroforestry crops under crop insurance, protecting farmers from weather-related losses.

It aligns with the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) by supporting tree species like fruit and medicinal plants along with regular crops, providing multiple harvest options.

Through linkages with ATMA and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), farmers receive training and technical support to adopt best agroforestry practices.

Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) can combine support from this mission with schemes like PM-KISAN and PMFME to access income support and micro-enterprise development more effectively.

A practical example: A fruit farmer in Maharashtra can plant timber trees under the Agroforestry Mission while also using crop insurance under PMFBY and getting value addition support from PMFME, ensuring stronger income stability and growth.

The mission continues to evolve with upgraded guidelines issued for 2024–25, and funding continues under the 60:40 central-state share pattern, with special provisions for northeastern and hilly states. Future plans emphasize greater inter-departmental coordination and expanded outreach to increase adoption and benefit more farmers.

Conclusion 

The Agroforestry Mission (Sub-Mission under NMSA) is a vital scheme that helps farmers improve their income while protecting the environment. It particularly benefits small and marginal farmers, women, and rural collectives by supporting tree growing alongside crops. This approach enhances soil health, water conservation, and climate resilience. To benefit from this scheme, readers should first check their eligibility on their respective State Agriculture Department portal or local agriculture office, prepare necessary documents like Aadhaar and land records, and apply either online or offline.

Keeping updated with official notifications is important, so verify the latest details through state agriculture websites or helpline numbers before applying. The mission continues to evolve for wider coverage and better integration with other farming programs.

Explore detailed resources on this scheme and the full suite of programmes at ALL ABOUT AGRICULTURE. For one-on-one assistance, call us at +91 8484002620.