ICAR-National Institute of Abiotic Stress Management (ICAR-NIASM), Baramati, in collaboration with SayTrees Solutions Pvt. Ltd., Bengaluru, organised a two-day training programme on “Strengthening Climate-Resilient Agroforestry Systems in Abiotic-Stressed Regions” on 9-10 September 2026.

The programme was attended by 35 participants, including 30 men and 5 women, comprising field coordinators, project managers and technical personnel from different parts of Karnataka and the SayTrees headquarters.

During the inaugural session, Dr. K. S. Reddy, Director, ICAR-NIASM, emphasised that successful tree-based interventions depend on four key components: quality planting material, proper soil preparation and nutrient management, water and moisture conservation, and scientific tree-based management.

Mr. Sunil Kumar V., State Coordinator, Karnataka, SayTrees, highlighted the organisation’s field efforts, noting that more than 9 lakh seedlings have been planted with farmers during the past years. The agroforestry models promoted by the programme include mango, citrus and sapota, along with boundary plantations of mahogany, sandalwood and red sanders.

The training combined classroom-based technical sessions with extensive practical and field exposure. Participants gained hands-on understanding of orchard management, soil health, nutrient management, water conservation and tree-based farming systems.

To facilitate effective participation, particularly considering the language diversity of the participants, ICAR-NIASM scientists delivered technical sessions in Telugu wherever required, with translation support. This helped ensure better communication and interaction throughout the programme.

The programme concluded with a valedictory session in which participants shared their feedback and appreciated the practical, field-oriented approach of the training. Certificates were distributed to representative participants in the presence of the dignitaries.

The training provided an important platform for strengthening technical capacity among field teams and promoting climate-resilient, productive and sustainable agroforestry systems among farmers.

The programme was organised by Dr. Sangram B. Chavan, PI, Saytrees Project along with Co-Principal Investigators Dr. Amrut S. Morade, Dr. C. B. Harisha and Dr. V. D. Kakade, supported by Sh. Praneeth Kumar, Dr. G. B. Rewale, Mr. Vikram Gawade, Mr. Ganesh Mohite and Mrs. Dhanashree Newase.