This article talks about how carbon markets can help Indian farmers earn more money by using eco-friendly farming methods while also reducing pollution and fighting climate change. It explains how these markets work, the problems they face, and how they can be improved for the benefit of farmers and the environment.

What Are Carbon Markets?

Carbon markets are systems where people and companies can buy and sell “carbon credits.” These credits are like rewards for reducing pollution, such as planting trees or using farming methods that are better for the environment.

There are two types of carbon markets:

1. Compliance Markets: These are controlled by governments or big organizations like the United Nations. Companies that pollute more than allowed must either:
   • Buy carbon credits from projects that reduce pollution.
   • Or pay a fine called a carbon tax.
2. Voluntary Markets: These are not controlled by rules. Companies can choose to buy and sell carbon credits to show they care about the environment. Examples of platforms for these credits are Verra and Gold Standard.

How Can Carbon Markets Help Farmers?

Carbon markets can help farmers earn extra income by adopting eco-friendly practices like reducing fertilizer use, planting more trees, or switching to no-till farming. These practices create carbon credits that companies can buy. This benefits farmers by giving them money for protecting the environment.

India is working on setting up its own carbon market, which will help farmers get involved and benefit more easily.

How Do Farmers Earn Carbon Credits?

For farmers to earn carbon credits, they must follow two important rules:

1. Additionality: Farmers need to try new eco-friendly methods to qualify. If they are already using sustainable methods, they won’t get credits.
2. Permanence: The benefits must last a long time. For example, if a farmer stops using no-till farming, the stored carbon could be released back into the air, canceling out the benefits.

Challenges in India’s Carbon Markets

Although many carbon farming projects have started in India, they face several issues. Over 50 projects have been launched, covering 1.6 million hectares of farmland, but farmers haven’t received any money yet because no carbon credits have been issued.

A study in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh found these problems:

• Small farmers and marginalized groups are left out: Big landowners benefit more, while small farmers and marginalized communities (like Scheduled Castes and Tribes) are often excluded. Women are also rarely included.
• Lack of proper training: Many farmers don’t get enough guidance on how to adopt sustainable methods. Some don’t even know about the projects.
• Delayed payments: Farmers haven’t been paid for their efforts, which makes it hard for them to stick to eco-friendly practices.
• Lower crop yields: Some farmers faced losses in crop production after switching to new methods, making them less willing to continue.

How Can Carbon Markets Improve?

To make carbon markets successful in India, the following changes are needed:

• Include small and marginalized farmers: Special focus should be given to helping small farmers, women, and marginalized groups join these programs. They should be paid more for their credits to encourage participation.
• Timely payments: Farmers need to get paid on time to keep them motivated.
• Better training and support: Farmers should get proper guidance and regular updates to help them use sustainable methods effectively.
• Use technology: Tools like satellites, drones, and sensors can monitor farming activities, making it easier to run these projects.

Future of Carbon Markets in India

Even though there are problems now, carbon markets have the potential to improve Indian agriculture. They can help farmers earn more money, promote eco-friendly farming, reduce pollution, and help India achieve its climate goals.

By working together farmers, the government, and private organizations—India can build a fair and effective carbon market that benefits everyone.

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