This paper deals with two case studies of successful implementation of a tree-based farming system for poverty alleviation in the semi-arid tropics of southern Karnataka. Dryland agriculture is like a gamble because of irregular and scanty rainfall coupled with frequent droughts, which is a common phenomenon in semi-arid regions. The implications of this are many-drastic reduction in livelihood opportunities for the local populace, poverty and consequently seasonal and permanent migration. It is against this background that BAIF has successfully integrated the tree component in the agriculture through people participation that has changed the socio-economic status of the families, including increase in overall agriculture production, year-round local self-employment, sufficient fuelwood for cooking, fodder for livestock, biomassfor composting, and security of drinking water. Livestock interventions such as goat, sheep and improved cattle rearing are integrated. Self-help groups promoted in the villages have helped in capacity building of the community and access to credit. Moreover this model has been replicated in several locations by other development organizations.
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