Vol. 11, Special Issue 9 (2022)

Author(s):
Shanaz Fatima, GM Bhat, MA Islam, Tareq A Rather, Megna Rashid and Meraj U Din Dar

Abstract:
The present study entitled “Traditional Agroforestry systems practiced in Leh district of Ladakh union terriority” was carried out, during 2019- 2020. The study site is located between 34⁰ 9’ N and 77⁰34’E at an altitude ranging from 2900-5900 meters (amsl). Multistage random sampling technique was used for selection of sampled blocks, villages and households in leh district. The first stage was the random sampling of seven blocks namely, Leh, Chuchot, Thiksay, Kharu, Khaltsi, Nimo, Nyoma. The second stage involved random sampling of eleven villages viz., Phey, Stakna, Nang, Upshi, Hemis, Shara, Nurla, Skinding, Umla, Chilling and Nyoma. A total of 164 households were drawn from sample villages which accounts 25 percent sampling intensity. The study included both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data were collected using both secondary sources and primary field survey. Eight agroforestry systems were found prevalent in the district viz., Agrisilviculture, Silvipastoral, Agri-horti-silviculture, Horti-pastoral, Agri-horticulture, Horti silviculture, Agri-silvopastoral systems and homegardens. Homegardens were practiced by majority of the households (154). In all existing agroforestry systems most prominent tree species were Poplar and willow species (forest tree spp) and apple and apricot (fruit tree spp.). In addition to trees farmers also grow agriculture crops and some forage crops. Most common agriculture crops were wheat, barley and vegetables and the common intercropping fodder crops were lucerne and clovers. Due to harsh climatic conditions farmers cultivated crops only during kharif season and during rabi season only few vegetables crops were grown under controlled conditions.