Abstract :
The adoptability and compatibility of agroforestry practices has provided better welfare of the society for overall community development. Women’s participation is also fundamental for maintaining the agricultural production and other management activities. Therefore, the present study was made to understand the variation in inter and intra-cultural practices of agroforestry systems by identifying different roles played across the social sector and to find out the economic benefits from different components of the system. It was found that both the communities cultivate and manage tree species, agricultural crops, livestock and other livelihood components. This investigation also shows intercultural variations of different communities in agroforestry system. Women in tribal community are more active in field then non-tribal but earn less due to lack to market and transport facility. The return from other livelihood components by tribal community was highest. However, Areca catechu L fruits offered more remuneration followed by Cocos nucifera L, Artocarpus heterophyllusm Lam. and Tamarindus indica L. Marketing, production and preparation, harvesting, education of children, household work, child care, work distribution, protection and management were also identified where women were mostly involved. Thus, women are seen to play significant activities in fulfilling the family needs by involving in various works. The components preferred by women in agroforestry must be introduced and practiced in a sustainable way to get higher benefits. For empowering women in the state, their contribution in agroforestry should be encouraged.
Keyword :
Community; Gender; Livelihood; Sustainable; Utilization.