Shifting Cultivation

Dr. Jonali Devi’s work on shifting cultivation likely explores the traditional agricultural practice known as "shifting cultivation," also referred to as "slash-and-burn" farming. This method involves clearing a piece of forest or jungle land, burning the vegetation to enrich the soil with nutrients, and then planting crops. After a few years of cultivation, the land is left fallow to recover its fertility while the farmer moves to a new area.

Shifting cultivation has been practiced by various indigenous communities around the world, including in parts of India, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Dr. Jonali Devi’s research might focus on several key aspects:

1. Ecological Impact: Examining how shifting cultivation affects forest ecosystems, soil health, and biodiversity. This includes looking at how the practice influences the balance of local flora and fauna.

2. Cultural Significance: Understanding how this agricultural practice is embedded in the cultural traditions and lifestyles of the communities that use it. This might involve studying the rituals, knowledge systems, and community organization surrounding shifting cultivation.

3. Sustainability and Modern Challenges: Investigating how shifting cultivation adapts to modern challenges such as population pressure, land degradation, and climate change. This could also involve looking at policies and interventions aimed at managing or improving the practice.

4. Economic Aspects: Assessing the economic viability of shifting cultivation compared to other farming methods, including its impact on the livelihoods of the people who practice it.