Traditional agricultural practices in Meghalaya, North East India

Abstract

The paper deals with traditional farming systems practiced by indigenous communities of Meghalaya. Majority of tribal people (<i style="">ca</i>. 83 per cent) in the state is engaged in agriculture. The shifting cultivation and terrace (bun) agriculture are two major farming systems, prevalent in Meghalaya. Tree based farming practices are also prevalent in the state. The crops are grown in association with tree species like alder, <i style="">Aquilaria</i>, areca nut, coconut, bamboo, <i style="">Khasi</i> pine, etc. Due to undulating topography and hilly terrain, the farmers predominantly use bamboo drip irrigation practice. The harvesting of crops adds a new dimension towards improvement of soil fertility. The farmers pick up ear heads of crops only, other parts of plant are left on cultivated land. The farmers store grains in structures, made of soil and plant materials. The seed storage structures are traditional and resistant to insects.