Enhancing the Socio-economic Empowerment of Jhumias in Mizoram through Livelihood Diversification Strategies

Abstract

Mizoram, one of the eight sister states in India’s North Eastern region, has an agrarian economy that remains underdeveloped. The predominant agricultural practice, jhum (shifting cultivation), is characterized by low productivity and limited returns, yet continues to serve as the primary livelihood source for a significant portion of the population. This practice has a profound influence on both the agricultural output and the socio-economic conditions of the jhumias (shifting cultivators). The present study was undertaken to assess the socio-economic profile of ethnic tribes in Mizoram, explore potential livelihood diversification strategies, and identify constraints to their adoption. Conducted in Siaha district, the research employed a pre-tested interview schedule for data collection. The findings revealed that most jhumias fell into the ‘medium’ category in terms of monthly income (Rs. 3227 to 17982) and landholding size (0.31 to 3.83 ha of 82 % populations). Respondents expressed strong agreement with diversification strategies such as fruit orchard development, establishment of small-scale primary processing units, vermicomposting, and adoption of integrated farming systems. The major constraints identified included inadequate transport subsidies, poor road connectivity, unavailability of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) suitable for jhum land, and lack of individual capital for investment. Given that jhum cultivation is deeply intertwined with the cultural identity and land tenure systems of the Mizo tribes, any livelihood diversification initiatives aimed at socio-economic upliftment must align with the socio-cultural context of the Mizo Hills.