Agroforestry was in practice in India long before the scientific approach
to it was realized. Various indigenous agroforestry systems were included in
curricula from the beginning of agricultural education in India. Many
institutions still teach it to undergraduate and postgraduate students of
agronomy, soil conservation and horticulture. Until 1979, the importance of
this aspect was not fully realized because shortage of fuel and fodder from
natural forests and pasture resources was still not obvious.