Ecological analysis of a cluster of villages emphasising land use of different tribes in Meghalaya in North-East India

Abstract

The ecological and economic efficiencies of land-use systems, animal husbandry and domestic sub-systems of three tribal (Garo, Khasi and Mikir) and none non-tribal (Nepali) communities living in the same area, at lower elevations of Meghalaya in north-east India, were evaluated. The economic efficiency of slash and burn agriculture (jhum) by the Garos was more efficient than that of the Khasis or the Mikirs, because of higher labour input and the crop mixture used by the Garos. On the other hand, the economic output from one cropping in a year under valley cultivation of the Nepalis was higher than two croppings done by the Garos. Cash crops raised in the home gardens of the Mikirs provided higher returns than other agricutuural systems. The energy efficiency of jhum varied, but was generally high (output/input ratio of 18.1 to 55.2). Valley cultivation of the Nepalis had higher energy efficiency than that of others. Swine husbandry was done by all communities except immigrant Nepalis. The Nepalis and the Mikirs raised cows for milk production while others used them for meat. The output/input patterns varied depending upon the labour and food energy inputs and the frequency of slaughter of the animals. The Garos have more efficient slash and burn agriculture and animal husbandry systems compared with the others, who have more dependence upon the forest for food. The linkages between the agricultural systems, animal husbandry and domestic sub-systems of the different communities are considered, and the possibilities for village ecosystem redevelopment discussed.