Question

Answer the following question in about 30 words.

The future of shifting cultivation is bleak. Discuss.

Answer 1

• These days, the biggest problem being faced by the shifting cultivators is the shortening of the jhum cycles, which makes the entire practice unsustainable.
• Also, governments impose several restrictions through forest acts, etc.
• Tribes and the practice of shifting cultivation.
• Shifting cultivation is sustainable (only for self-consumption) in nature; hence, it cannot meet market demand and, therefore, has no scope in increasingly globalised markets.
• With the influx of non-tribals into tribal areas, tribals are adopting modern agricultural practices that are more productive and environmentally sustainable.
• To support a small population, a huge land resource base is required, which ultimately leads to soil erosion and land degradation.