Government launches Carbon Market Framework and Agroforestry Accreditation Protocol for agri sector

Union Minister of Agriculture & Farmer’s Welfare and Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda launched the Framework for Voluntary Carbon Market in Agriculture Sector and Accreditation Protocol of Agroforestry Nurseries in Delhi. Secretary Shri Manoj Ahuja, Secretary of DARE and Director General of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Dr. Himanshu Pathak, Senior officials of Central and State Ministries and Various Organizations related to agriculture were present on the occasion, while many stakeholders also joined the programme virtually.

In his address, Shri Munda highlighted the Ministry’s framework to promote Voluntary Carbon Market (VCM) in the agricultural sector, aiming to encourage small and medium farmers to benefit from carbon credit. The introduction of farmers to the carbon market is intended to not only benefit them but also accelerate the adoption of environmentally friendly agricultural practices. Shri Munda requested full cooperation from concerned ministries at both the central and state levels, as well as other organizations, to promote the carbon market in the interest of farmers. He emphasized collaboration with farmers in the southern regions, focusing on convenience and ensuring widespread participation. Shri Munda urged ICAR to play an active role in this initiative and emphasized the need to address global challenges like global warming with caution.

Shri Munda emphasized the significant contribution of the agriculture sector to the country’s economy and the livelihoods of millions of people. He highlighted the steps taken by the Ministry under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for sustainable development. Regarding the Accreditation Protocol of Agroforestry Nurseries, Shri Munda emphasized its role in strengthening institutional arrangements for large-scale production and certification of planting material to promote agroforestry. He urged stakeholders to adopt the protocol to ensure quality planting material, assured returns, and the achievement of National Agroforestry Policy goals. Shri Munda also stressed the importance of proper use of natural resources and reiterated the government’s commitment under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Modi to address agricultural sector development and climate change.