Challenges of Biodiversity Conservation and Livelihood Approach of Indigenous People: A Glance of Shifting Cultivation in Manipur

This study explores the type of agricultural practice known as jhum cultivation entirely practiced by the hill tribes of Manipur, a small state located in the Northeast India. Critical ethnography approach was used for the present study to explore and understand the sociocultural milieu of shifting cultivation (jhum) by participating and involving close association with the tribes in their natural environment. This paper discussed the altering scenario of jhum cultivation in Manipur due to the population pressure and the challenges confronted by the local people. This form of agriculture which is the main source of livelihoods of many tribes‘ of the state is under profound criticism. So, the debates of ill impacts of this cultivation and the importance of it in tribal culture from the conservationist point of view were analysed critically. The symbiotic relationship of tribal cultural ethos, social organizations and behaviours with this cultivation is examined. The participation of the community as well as their indigenous knowledge, for sustaining livelihoods and conserving the environment must put to priority in planning and program formulations.