Forest dept revives traditional crop protection methods in Bageshwar
The initiative is centred on raising awareness among farmers about the dual advantages of these plants -- they serve as natural barriers against wildlife, particularly monkeys and wild boars, and also generate marketable produce. Forest officials said that the plants will act as living fences around agricultural plots, offering both protection and economic value.
Divisional forest officer (DFO) Dhruv Martoliya said, "Farmers in hilly areas often incur heavy crop losses due to wild animals.
To combat this, we've introduced a natural method by planting Timur and Rambans around farmlands. These species not only deter animals but are also in high market demand."
The DFO added, "The programme will not only reduce crop damage but also encourage farmers to return to cultivation as many hillside fields remain fallow due to repeated wildlife-related losses. By blending traditional ecological practices with modern outreach efforts, we aim to restore farming confidence and strengthen rural livelihoods in the region."
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Rambans, a hardy, thorn-covered plant, has long been used in arid regions to demarcate land boundaries. It yields strong natural fibres used in rope-making, mats, and handicrafts. Timur, on the other hand, is prized for its medicinal properties and is commonly used in organic and herbal products.
Bhagwat Singh, a 76-year-old retired schoolteacher, recalls how such practices were once the norm in hill communities.
"Our elders used these methods to protect their fields. Over time, those traditions faded. With the growing threat from wild animals today, this initiative is both timely and necessary."
Bageshwar: On the occasion of World Environment Day (June 5), the forest department in Bageshwar has launched an innovative initiative to plant Timur (Zanthoxylum Armatum) and Rambans (Agave Americana) along agricultural fields, with an aim to protect crops from wildlife while offering financial benefits to local farmers.
The initiative is centred on raising awareness among farmers about the dual advantages of these plants -- they serve as natural barriers against wildlife, particularly monkeys and wild boars, and also generate marketable produce. Forest officials said that the plants will act as living fences around agricultural plots, offering both protection and economic value.
Divisional forest officer (DFO) Dhruv Martoliya said, "Farmers in hilly areas often incur heavy crop losses due to wild animals.
To combat this, we've introduced a natural method by planting Timur and Rambans around farmlands. These species not only deter animals but are also in high market demand."
The DFO added, "The programme will not only reduce crop damage but also encourage farmers to return to cultivation as many hillside fields remain fallow due to repeated wildlife-related losses. By blending traditional ecological practices with modern outreach efforts, we aim to restore farming confidence and strengthen rural livelihoods in the region."
Rambans, a hardy, thorn-covered plant, has long been used in arid regions to demarcate land boundaries. It yields strong natural fibres used in rope-making, mats, and handicrafts. Timur, on the other hand, is prized for its medicinal properties and is commonly used in organic and herbal products.
Bhagwat Singh, a 76-year-old retired schoolteacher, recalls how such practices were once the norm in hill communities. "Our elders used these methods to protect their fields. Over time, those traditions faded. With the growing threat from wild animals today, this initiative is both timely and necessary."
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