Indigenous Forestry Resources in Leh Himalaya, India: Utilization and Significance for Agricultural Support and Bioenergy Security

Abstract

A comprehensive understanding of the underlying indigenous uses of forestry resources is crucial for the implementation of forestry interventions for agricultural support and bioenergy security in the cold deserts of the Leh Himalaya, India. The study explored the diversity of forestry species, including their familial classifications, the plant parts employed, and the methods of utilization for agricultural support and bioenergy security within local communities in the Leh Himalaya. A multi-stage random selection technique was used to collect data from 185 sample families chosen from nine villages and five blocks. Data were collected through structured interviews and non-participant observations, and were subsequently analyzed using basic descriptive statistics. About 10 (5.98%) species of forestry plants, distributed across 6 genera and 5 families, were utilized by the local population for agricultural support. In contrast, the bioenergy plants comprised 19 (11.19%) species belonging to 14 genera and 12 families. The 29 species included 13 trees, 12 shrubs, and 4 herbs that were used for agricultural support and bioenergy security. The key families contributing to agricultural support and bioenergy security were Salicaceae (12), Fabaceae (2), and Rosaceae (2). The extensive utilization of forestry resources for livelihood security among local people indicated that livelihood intensification through forestry interventions should be given topmost priority for their all-round development. The findings will be a base for future researchers to generate more data needed on how on-farm trees improve crop yields, soil nutrients, water use, fodder production, soil fertility, prevent erosion, aid pollination, and regulate water cycles, especially regarding their long-term effects on food production stability and resilience.