Fallow Jhum Land Management Through Integrated Approaches with Particular Reference to Northeast India

Jhum cultivation, a centuries-old shifting agricultural practice mostly prevalent in India’s northeast (NEI) region, has raised concerns owing to its environmental and socioeconomic consequences. This chapter suggests an integrated strategy for the management of fallow jhum land that takes into account both environmental sustainability and community well-being. The integrated approach incorporates multiple strategies, such as the introduction of multipurpose tree species (MPTs), agroforestry, an integrated farming system, soil conservation techniques, a traditional knowledge system, community participation, and incentive mechanisms. Farmers established MPTs and bamboo species to help rehabilitate NEI’s degraded forest jhum regions. Agroforestry, such as alder-based and pineapple-based agroforestry systems, can help restore soil fertility, reduce erosion, and provide alternative livelihood possibilities. Integrated farming practices, such as the zabo system, improve food security, reduce dependency on monoculture, and raise financial stability. Traditional methods of farming, such as contour bunding and bench terracing, can successfully prevent soil loss and degradation. Furthermore, community involvement is critical to the long-term achievement of the jhum land management approach. Engaging local communities in the process of decision-making propels the sensation of ownership and the adoption of sustainable practices. To generate context-specific strategies, indigenous knowledge and traditional practices can be combined with present scientific techniques. This chapter utilizes case studies from several NEI states to demonstrate effective examples of integrated land management practices. It also addresses the importance of policy support and incentive systems. Fallow jhum land management may be transformed into an ecologically sound and resilient system that benefits both the environment and the well-being of local people through the implementation of comprehensive approaches that incorporate environmental, socioeconomic, and cultural considerations.