How the Hill Farmers Control Pests Using Locally Available Resources: Lessons from the Upland Areas of North East India

Abstract

The agriculture scenario in northeast India is quite different from mainland India. Difference in physiography and climatic conditions are some of the major determinants. Again different indigenous communities with unique traditions and customs inhabit most of the area. 'Shifting cultivation' is the main form of cultivation in this part of the country. In the upland areas of North East, agricultural extension and supportive delivery systems are practically non-existent. Wherever available, the rural poor lack the means to access these services. In such a situation, the rural upland farmer is largely dependent on traditional practices of pest management based on empirical experience. The North Eastern Region Community Resource Management Project for Upland Areas is being implemented in six districts, 2 each in Assam, Manipur and Meghalaya. The overall objective of the venture is to improve the livelihood of vulnerable groups through judicious management of their resource base. Besides, the project is also encouraging the organic form of cultivation through strengthening of their traditions and practices like 'pest management practices'. Till now documentation has been done among the communities inhabiting four districts. Documentation of such practices reveals an interesting insight and understanding of local resources, different ways of controlling pests as well as the ecological principle of food-web linkages, by the communities. This presentation highlights a few of these practices and their analysis.