AbstractArunachal Pradesh, which lies in northeastern India, is distinguished by its varied and challenging geographical landscape, which significantly impacts agricultural productivity in the state. The region is marked by substantial precipitation, fostering a robust tropical forest ecology that sustains a diverse array of plant species. The distinctive biodiversity of these forests represents the region’s natural wealth, while simultaneously posing obstacles for sustainable agricultural advancement. A significant element affecting agricultural production in Arunachal Pradesh is the prevalence of shifting cultivation, referred to as "jhum" farming. This conventional method entails the deforestation and burning of woodland, followed by a phase of agriculture and eventual abandonment as soil fertility diminishes. The jhum system has been an enduring element of the region’s cultural and economic framework, with many tribes implementing it in unique manners. This agricultural system’s long-term viability is seriously threatened by the decrease in soil fertility and environmental degradation brought on by population pressure that has reduced the fallow period. The evolving dynamics of agricultural production in Arunachal Pradesh are further intensified by the state’s diversified topography and varying slope conditions. This heterogeneous landscape poses unique challenges for the adoption of modern agricultural techniques and technologies, often requiring site-specific interventions to address the specific needs of each region. Additionally, the land tenure system and cultivation practices in Arunachal Pradesh vary across different tribes and communities, further complicating the task of implementing efficient and sustainable agricultural strategies. Despite these challenges, there have been efforts to address the issues surrounding agricultural production in Arunachal Pradesh. These efforts have focused on promoting alternative farming systems, such as agri-horticulture agroforestry, which aim to integrate perennial crops and tree species with annual agricultural crops. Such systems have the potential to enhance the productivity and resilience of the region’s agriculture, while also mitigating the environmental impact oftraditional shifting cultivation practices.
Gurung et al. (Wed,) studied this question.