Centre Unveils Model Rules to Ease Agroforestry Regulations and Boost Rural Economy

In a major step towards promoting sustainable agriculture and enhancing the ease of doing business in agroforestry, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has released the ‘Model Rules for Felling of Trees in Agricultural Lands’. Aimed at simplifying regulatory procedures and encouraging tree-based farming, these model rules will assist States and Union Territories in promoting agroforestry as a viable economic and ecological solution. The initiative also introduces the upcoming National Timber Management System (NTMS) Portal, designed to streamline registrations and approvals for tree harvesting.

Why in News?

On 29th June 2025, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change issued Model Rules to streamline regulations for tree felling in agricultural lands. The move aims to boost agroforestry, aid farmers in integrating trees with crops, and reduce dependency on natural forests. A new NTMS portal is also under development to digitally manage geo-tagged plantation data and harvesting approvals.

Objectives and Aim of the Initiative

• To simplify regulatory frameworks for agroforestry and timber harvesting.
• To boost rural incomes by encouraging tree cultivation on farmlands.
• To balance ecological needs with economic development in rural areas.
• To improve traceability, transparency, and compliance through digital platforms.

Background & Need

Agroforestry, the integration of trees and shrubs into farming systems, is crucial for,

• Soil health
• Water conservation
• Biodiversity
• Climate resilience
• Farmers often faced bureaucratic hurdles in obtaining permissions for tree harvesting, discouraging them from planting trees on their lands.

Key Features of the Model Rules

• Establishment of State Level Committees under Wood-Based Industries Guidelines (2016) to implement and monitor the rules.

Mandated registration of agroforestry plantations on the NTMS Portal, with,

• Land ownership proof
• Farm location (KML files)
• Species and plantation details
• Geo-tagged images
• Online application process for tree felling permissions.
• Empanelled verification agencies will inspect plantations.
• Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) to supervise and monitor verification agencies’ work.

Significance

• Promotes domestic timber production and reduces import dependency.
• Encourages wood-based industries with reliable raw materials.
• Opens up export opportunities.
• Aligns with India’s climate commitments by increasing tree cover.
• Empowers farmers to monetize their farmlands in a sustainable manner.