Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part F (2025)

The study explores the traditional farming practices of shifting cultivation among the Wancho tribe in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing its implication for environmental sustainability and resource management. Using methods such as non-participant observation, unstructured interviews and archaeological exploration, the research documents the agricultural practices and resource management strategies of the Wancho people. The Wancho community’s primary agricultural method is shifting cultivation, locally known as jhum. They follow a jhum cycle of 10 to 12 years, carefully balancing cultivation and fallow periods to maintain ecological equilibrium. They also practice animal husbandry and fishing, diversifying their subsistence strategies. To ensure food security, they utilize food preservation methods, including drying, fermentation and smoking. The use of mud stoves, firewood and natural materials in daily life reflects a sustainable lifestyle deeply rooted in their connection to the natural environment. While modern tools have been incorporated into their practices, the Wancho skilfully integrate these with traditional methods, showcasing resilience, adaptability and a strong commitment to cultural heritage. This study highlights the Wancho tribe’s sustainable and resourceful way of life, grounded in traditional practices and a deep to their environment. Their integration of prehistoric agricultural techniques with modern practices reflects their ecological awareness and adaptive survival strategies.