Traditional knowledge and heirloom root vegetables: Food security in trans-Himalayan Ladakh, India

Abstract

This study elaborates the role of heirloom vegetables coming down from generations to generations into the life support system of native <em>Ladakhi</em> highlanders (in the trans-Himalaya region of India). The study was conducted with 165 <em>Ladakhi</em> men and women using a combination of personal interviews and participatory methods indicated that heirloom vegetables are known for their taste, colour, shape and adaptability among <em>Ladakhi</em> people, and form an integral part of their food system during the period of scarcity, especially during the winter months when the region remains landlocked. Due to unfavourable conditions caused by severe cold, high altitude and a short growing season the production of many vegetable varieties are hampered. During such periods, the heirloom root vegetables available in the region with higher shelf life are of immense utility in securing the food security of the local community. However, the introduction of new varieties is posing a threat to the traditional heirloom root vegetables, and many are in verge of extinction accompanied by decreasing trend in their growing percentage. These vegetables are stored for consumption during winter, although the trend is currently declining. If the same trend continues, appropriate <em>in situ</em> conservations interventions are needed.