Remote sensing-based vegetation indices in agroforestry plantation monitoring

Agroforestry offers a vital solution for addressing challenges in India's agricultural sector, which is burdened by fragmented landholdings, environmental degradation, and economic vulnerability. With 86.1% of farmers being small and marginal, integrating agroforestry into agricultural practices presents an opportunity for enhancing livelihoods through additional income streams and contributing to climate resilience. Remote sensing-based vegetation indices play a crucial role in the precise monitoring and assessment of agroforestry plantations, providing valuable insights into biomass accumulation, soil health, and carbon sequestration. This article explores the application of key vegetation indices such as the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Soil Adjusted Vegetation Index (SAVI), Green Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (GNDVI), and Normalized Difference Moisture Index (NDMI) in agroforestry monitoring. The use of these indices facilitates accurate tracking of plantation growth, assessment of canopy health, and evaluation of carbon stock dynamics, contributing significantly to the success of carbon finance projects. Through geospatial technology, India can optimize its agroforestry potential, expanding its role in carbon markets while enhancing the resilience of farming communities. The article underscores the potential of remote sensing technologies in driving sustainable land-use practices and aligning with national climate mitigation goals.