We held a productive consultative workshop w/ govt, farmers, NGOs & relevant organisations to shape this initiative. We are especially grateful to Dr Ravi Kota, IAS, @CSAssam_ , for guidance on farmer-centric, region-specific design grounded in real economic value & strong data.
Assam has the potential to lead 🇮🇳’s transition to a green economy, with agroforestry as a key lever. IORA, with @aadb_assam, is partnering with the Govt of Assam to unlock climate finance via innovative tools like sovereign guarantees & value chain financing for agar & bamboo.
Had the opportunity to address a consultative workshop on Agroforestry, Climate Finance and Green Economy Transition in Assam, organised by the Assam Agroforestry Development Board in collaboration with IORA Ecological Solutions.
Assam’s rich natural resource base offers a strong foundation for a green and sustainable economic transition. At the same time, the State’s vulnerability to climate change necessitates development pathways that are both climate resilient and growth oriented.
The transformative potential of agroforestry as a key pillar was emphasised, strengthening ecosystems, improving soil health, and significantly enhancing farmer incomes. There is immense scope in promoting high value species such as agarwood and bamboo for value addition, enterprise development, and stronger market linkages.
Agroforestry also presents a major opportunity for tea plantation landscapes and small tea growers by enabling more resilient production systems while creating additional income streams.
Climate finance frameworks that place farmers at the centre must be prioritised, enabling access to carbon credits and carbon linked opportunities.
Also highlighted the MoU between the Assam Agroforestry Development Board and IORA Ecological Solutions signed during Advantage Assam 2.0, aimed at advancing agroforestry and sustainable agriculture through carbon and climate financing.
The initiative envisions engagement with around 1.5 lakh smallholder farmers across approximately 3 lakh hectares in Assam, with the potential to leverage about USD 100 million in financing and generate nearly USD 600 million in carbon revenues over a 20 year period. It also aims at restoration of about 3 lakh hectares of land, while unlocking a long term capital deployment opportunity of about Rs 3500 to 4000 crore through value chain financing and public private partnerships.
With region specific agroforestry models across diverse agro climatic zones, and green initiatives such as methane and compressed bio gas plants supporting circular economy practices, Assam is well positioned to lead a green economy transition.
The workshop was attended by Dr. Sonali Ghosh, CEO, AADB; M. K. Yadav, Special Chief Secretary, Environment, Forest and Climate Change Department, Government of Assam; along with representatives from NGOs, Farmer Producer Companies and other stakeholders.
The deliberations reaffirmed Assam’s potential to emerge as a leader in green economy transition through sustainable land use systems, agroforestry, and climate aligned development strategies.
The way forward lies in strong convergence and coordinated implementation, integrating farmer livelihoods, value chains, and climate finance to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.
@aadb_assam@IoraEcological
These approaches derisk investments, crowd in pvt capital & channel finance to smallholders. Beyond finance, it’s about restoration, resilience & boosting incomes. Linking agroforestry with carbon markets & inclusive finance can make Assam a scalable, climate-smart growth model.
🌿Stewardship, Equity, Inclusion are not optional—they're essential.
🎙️ This webinar explores how to ensure Indigenous & local communities are empowered in #climatefinance systems like #PES.
🗓️Tuesday May 20th
⏰9:30am-10:45am EST
🔗https://t.co/8Eb8P9kJLT
#SustainableFinance
Thrilled to announce our MoU with ASOAIBA to launch a community-based REDD+ project in Colombia!🌳100,000+ hectares of forest signed up for #conservation over the next 30 year. The initiative focuses on integrating traditional knowledge to protect vital ecosystems. #ClimateAction
Partnership for Big Cats!
#IBCA & @IoraEcological signed an MoU today at IBCA office to collectively address the critical challenges facing big cat conservation, particularly those related to habitat loss, fragmentation, and the impacts of climate change.
The larger intent of this MoU aims to execute ‘Accessing Carbon, Biodiversity, Water and Landscape Finance to Support Big Cat Habitat Restoration and Conservation’ for big cat range countries.
This #NationalBirdDay & #WorldMigratoryBirdDay, we're celebrating these winged travelers! Supporting @ITCCorpCom ’s Mission Sunehra Kal, #TeamIORA documented stunning birds across Rajasthan. Catch a glimpse of Rajasthan’s birdlife & get in touch with out experts to know more!
From restoring forests to protecting biodiversity, we’ve made meaningful progress for vibrant ecosystems & resilient communities. Let’s make 2025 more impactful—together! The road ahead is long, but each milestone reaffirms we’re on the right track. #HappyNewYear from #TeamIora
What do the three wise monkeys teach us today?
Amid climate crises & pollution, their silent wisdom urges us to see, hear, & speak up for action. Diminishing habitats, toxic air & zoonotic risks threaten even monkeys forced closer to urban life
This #MonkeyDay, let’s #ActForEarth
69% — that’s the decline in global wildlife populations since 1970! 🌍 Habitat loss, climate change & human impact are driving ecosystems to the brink.
But it’s not too late. Let’s restore habitats, reduce conflicts, and create a sustainable future.
What are 5 ways you can help?
Empty nets signal more than loss—it’s a crisis for communities and ecosystems. With 30% of fish stocks overexploited, 14M+ livelihoods in 🇮🇳 hang in the balance. This #WorldFisheriesDay, let’s champion sustainable fisheries & Nature-based Solutions to protect our oceans & future.
Our CEO, @SwapanMehra participated in a high-impact convening on “Mainstreaming Natural Capital” held at the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center, (Nov 11-15), focusing on valuing nature in our economy & integrating environmental considerations into decision-making..
@wef
As urgency rises to tackle climate change, @UNFCCC is crucial for private finance in Nature-based Solutions. India is leading the way, supporting developing nations & unlocking carbon market investments. Check out our latest blog to know more -👉https://t.co/UgyoUk3Y9S
#TeamIORA
#COP16 wrapped up with key wins for Indigenous rights, ocean protection, & climate-biodiversity integration. Dive into COP16 highlights, 🇮🇳's contributions & path forward for biodiversity conservation in our latest blog by our experts Tanvi & Hariharan - https://t.co/JXuNmyQC1U
Celebrating #WorldWildlifeWeek, #TeamIora’s Dr Irina led a butterfly walk at Asola Bhati Wildlife Sanctuary with Jayaram Sheshathri, guiding 50+ kids to explore nature’s wonders. More than just beauty, butterflies play a key role as pollinators! 🦋 Read: https://t.co/XTTiSbE4CF
Excited to kick off the Future Farmers Initiative with Dalberg! We discussed the future of Indian farming, bridging traditional knowledge with modern tech to build climate resilience🌍. Let's work towards a thriving future for farmers! #AgriResilience#ClimateAction#FarmersFirst
Energy efficiency isn't just about saving money—it's about making smarter choices for a greener future 🌍💡. #TeamIORA is here to debunk common myths and show how small changes can make a big impact. Watch to learn more! 🔋♻️ #EnergyEfficiencyDay#GoGreen#Sustainability