Agroforestry and traditional knowledge: Lessons from indigenous practices in South Asian Countries: A review

Abstract

Agroforestry is deeply rooted in South Asian tradition as an important and dynamic land-use system that integrates agriculture and forestry. The review sums up indigenous agroforestry practices in South Asian countries, drawing attention to the multi-dimensional benefits obtained through such practices: food security, biodiversity conservation, and economic resilience. Systems such as multifunctional home gardens, Agri silviculture, silvopasture, and the Taungya system represent the innovative approaches developed in the region to integrate trees, crops, and livestock. The traditional knowledge contributing to such sustainable management is often passed down through generations. These indigenous practices, including home gardens and alley cropping, have ensured continued adaptation to evolving environmental and socioeconomic pressures, and lessons learned contribute to modern-day land management in the face of climate change and urbanization. Active women's involvement secures ecological balance and economic stability, representing the sociocultural dimensions of agroforestry. However, globalization, population pressure, and gaps in policies have confronted these practices, which has marginalized indigenous communities and shifted them towards more market-driven agricultural systems. Countries like Nepal and India have provided a policy impetus to agroforestry yet lack of integration and support remains one of the major obstacles. This review signals the importance of policy reforms that integrate traditional knowledge for sustainable development. Integration of indigenous knowledge with modern techniques of agroforestry could contribute to food security challenges, ecological resilience, and cultural heritage in South Asia. The authors call for increased institutional support and inclusive governance to mainstream agroforestry as a sustainable land-use strategy in the region.