Reevaluating Shifting Cultivation in Northeast India: Balancing Traditional Practices, Sustainability, and Development

Abstract

Shifting cultivation, particularly the jhum system, has been a long-standing practice in Northeast India, sustaining the livelihoods of indigenous communities. This paper aims to reevaluate the enduring practice of shifting cultivation in Northeast India, acknowledging its deep historical roots, vital role in sustaining tribal livelihoods, and dynamic adaptation amidst socioeconomic change. Tracing its origins to the Neolithic era, shifting cultivation has evolved from a subsistence-based model to one generating modest surpluses, remaining integral to food security and cultural identity in rural tribal communities. Various research papers and government reports have been studied thoroughly from 1985 to 2023 to examine the evolving perceptions of shifting cultivation, considering both its economic and environmental implications. While often criticized for contributing to deforestation, soil degradation, and biodiversity loss, recent research suggests that the practice can be more sustainable than traditionally assumed, especially when fallow cycles are maintained. The jhum system promotes biodiversity conservation through its use of mixed cropping and the protection of endemic species. However, challenges such as insecure land tenure and inadequate policies have hindered the adoption of alternative farming practices. This study emphasizes the significance of blending traditional ecological wisdom with contemporary agricultural techniques to bolster food security, conserve biodiversity, and enhance community well-being. The findings demonstrate that, when bolstered by sustainable interventions such as homestead production systems that honor indigenous values, shifting cultivation continues to serve as a crucial livelihood for tribal communities in Northeastern India, fostering rural development, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability.