Comparison of Miyawaki Afforestation Method with Alternate Afforestation Models of Peepalbaba and Auroville

As the Miyawaki afforestation method is gaining popularity all over the world, it is important to understand implications of using this method. The most attractive feature ofthis method is the speed of growth of the forest. Within three years, a fully-grown, self-sustaining forest is ready. It also has various layers of a natural forest - grass, shrubs, small trees and canopy trees – that enables it to mimic the natural forest. However, Miyawaki forest is an expensive proposition. It needs at least Rs. 30-40 lakhs ($36000 – 48000) per hectare to grow the forest. This paper discusses other popular models in India for growing a forest. One model is of a widely revered tree grower, Peepalbaba, who advocates planting species like peepal, banyan and neem. Another model, cited often as a successful model for afforesting a barren land, is of Auroville. This paper compares these models to understand how each one works.