The Shifting Agricultural System (Jhum) and Strategies for Sustainable Agroecosystems in Northeast India

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to examine how a traditional shifting agricultural system (locally known as jhum) in marginalized and remote areas in Northeast India has been practiced, and, over a period of time, how various changes have taken place in terms of population, climate, and policies. It is observed that, in spite of an increase in human population, production as well as species diversity have not been much affected. The traditional production system with some degree of modification that applies scientific knowledge can sustain the fragile mountain ecosystem of Northeast India. Moreover in order to maintain sustainable crop production without compromising environmental health, there should be more collaborative efforts between traditional cultivators and scientific communities to bring about win–win situations.