Jhum cultivation and it's history in Tripura
Dr. Haimanti Bhattarcharjee
April 11, 2025
Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional farming practice in which a plot of land is cleared, burned, and then cultivated for a few years before being abandoned and allowed to revert to its natural state. This practice is commonly used in tropical and subtropical regions, particularly in parts of North East.
Characteristics of Jhum Cultivation:
1. Shifting cultivation: Farmers clear a new plot of land every few years, allowing the previous plot to revert to its natural state.
2. Slash-and-burn: Vegetation is cut and burned to clear the land and prepare it for cultivation.
3. Low-input farming: Farmers rely on natural soil fertility and rainfall, with minimal use of fertilizers or irrigation.
4. Crop rotation: Farmers rotate crops to maintain soil fertility and control pests and diseases.
Benefits of Jhum Cultivation:
1. Low cost: Jhum cultivation requires minimal investment in equipment and inputs.
2. Sustainable: The practice allows for natural regeneration of the land and maintains biodiversity.
3. Cultural significance: Jhum cultivation is an important part of the cultural heritage of many indigenous communities.
Challenges and Limitations:
1. Soil degradation: Repeated burning and cultivation can lead to soil erosion and nutrient depletion.
2. Loss of biodiversity: Jhum cultivation can result in the loss of native vegetation and wildlife habitats.
3. Climate change: The practice can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Jhum cultivation history in Tripura
This traditional farming practice involves clearing land, burning vegetation, and then cultivating crops for a few years before moving to a new area. Here's a brief overview of Jhum cultivation in Tripura
- Early History: Jhum cultivation has been practiced by Tripura's indigenous communities for centuries. The Indian Forest Act of 1927 brought this practice under state control, and efforts to resettle Jhumias (practitioners of Jhum cultivation) began in the 1950s.
- Post-Independence Era: The Indian government introduced various schemes to promote alternative ra livelihoods and reduce dependence on Jhum cultivation. These initiatives included rubber and tea-based resettlement schemes, soil and water conservation programs, and watershed development projects.
- Current Status: Despite these efforts, Jhum cultivation remains a significant practice in Tripura. The area under Jhum cultivation has decreased over the years, from 254.11 sq. km in 2010 to 94.82 sq. km in 2019. However, the practice continues to be a major source of livelihood for many tribal communities.
- Challenges and Concerns: Jhum cultivation is linked to various environmental and health issues, including deforestation, soil degradation, and malaria transmission. The reduction in the Jhum cycle from 15-20 years to 2-3 years has exacerbated these problems.
The Tripura government has been working to address these concerns by promoting sustainable land-use practices and alternative livelihoods for Jhumias. Some initiatives include:
- Agroforestry: Encouraging the integration of trees into farming systems to maintain biodiversity and soil health.
- Conservation Agriculture: Promoting techniques like mulching and cover cropping to reduce soil erosion and improve soil fertility.
- Sustainable Land-Use Planning: Encouraging farmers to adopt more sustainable land-use practices and protecting natural habitats.
Overall, jhum cultivation is a complex and multifaceted practice that requires careful consideration of its benefits and challenges.
(Tripurainfo)
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