SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) has unveiled a new publication titled ‘Potentials of Agroforestry for Rural Development and Climate Resilient Farming in South Asia’ at a programme held on Monday (09 March 2026) at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair in Dhaka. The book is edited by Dr. Raza Ullah Khan, Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid, Palash Chandra Goswami and Md. Abul Bashar and highlights the growing importance of agroforestry in strengthening rural livelihoods and climate resilience across the region.
The event was attended by officials of SAC, while the chief guest was Dr. Md. Abdus Salam, Executive Chairman, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC). The event was presided over by SAC Director Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid.
In his remarks, Dr. Abdus Salam said that South Asia faces significant challenges from climate change, population pressure and limited land resources. In such a situation, agroforestry offers a practical and sustainable solution. By integrating trees with crops and livestock, farmers can improve soil fertility, conserve biodiversity and strengthen their resilience to climate shocks. He also noted that agroforestry can open new income opportunities for rural households while supporting long-term environmental sustainability.
Director of SAC Dr. Md. Harunur Rashid said agroforestry is gaining growing recognition as a climate-smart farming practice across South Asia. He pointed out that the region is increasingly affected by floods, droughts, rising temperatures and land degradation. These challenges require more sustainable and diversified farming systems. Agroforestry can support this transition by integrating trees with crops and livestock, helping farmers maintain year-round food production while reducing risks associated with single-crop farming.
The publication is based on the outcomes of a regional expert consultation organized by SAC in September 2025. Bringing together experts from across South Asia, the book presents country experiences, policy insights and practical recommendations for expanding agroforestry practices and strengthening climate-resilient agriculture in the SAARC region.
