Jhumming cultivation is known as 'Kuruwa' in which region/state?

Key Points

• Jhumming cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional form of agriculture practiced in certain regions of India.
• In Jharkhand, this type of cultivation is referred to as 'Kuruwa'.
• This practice involves clearing a piece of land by slashing and burning the vegetation and then cultivating crops on it.
• After a few years, when the soil fertility decreases, the land is abandoned and a new area is cleared for cultivation, allowing the previous plot to regenerate.

Additional Information

• Jhumming Cultivation:
  • Also known as shifting cultivation or slash-and-burn agriculture, this practice is prevalent in various parts of the world, including North-East India, parts of South-East Asia, and Latin America.
  • It is a subsistence agriculture method where the same piece of land is used for a few years and then left fallow to regain its fertility.
  • In India, this method is practiced by indigenous communities and is known by different names in different regions. For instance, it is called 'Penda' in Madhya Pradesh, 'Podu' in Andhra Pradesh, and 'Kumri' in the Western Ghats.
  • Despite being a traditional method, shifting cultivation is often criticized for its environmental impact, including deforestation and soil degradation.
• Environmental Impact:
  • Shifting cultivation involves the cutting and burning of forests, which can lead to loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction.
  • This practice can also contribute to soil erosion and nutrient depletion, affecting the long-term sustainability of the land.
  • However, if managed sustainably with adequate fallow periods, it can be a viable agricultural practice for small communities.