'Home Gardens' Can Tackle Poverty, Need Modernisation: Scientists

It was discovered that HGs are more "commercially oriented" in Bangladesh than in the other two study countries, whereas Sri Lanka topped in terms of biodiversity. "Because of the diversity observed, they are more resilient to climate change," Jana said.As for their contribution to food security, Jana pointed out that in the Indian sites (Bengal villages) HG owners sourced around 30 to 40 percent of their nutrition from these systems through vegetables, mango, jackfruit, coconut and guava, eggs and meat.

"Most importantly, this is something they do as part of their normal existence. There is no extra effort involved," observed Jana, adding that states like Kerala have caught-on to the idea.

Despite these advantages, in Bengal as well as in other parts of India, people and policymakers are yet to view home gardening as a serious method to deal with the changes.

The take-away from the survey is that owners with higher level of education and those in favour of applying modern inputs are better equipped to realise the immense mitigation and adaptation potential of HGs and in turn, combating climate change, said the researchers.

Roy said: "Since HGs are not managed systematically this does not guarantee its sustenance. Interventions at the level of policy making is a major necessity in India, which can strengthen our country's nationally appropriate climate action plan and strengthen negotiation position in global deals."

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