Diversification of Tribal Farming Systems

Abstract

The farming in the tropical islands largely depends on the limited resources of the islands and evolved a unique way of practicing farming within the island ecosystem. The tropical islands of Nicobar are part of the union territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India which is home to two most important aborigines viz. Nicobarese and Shompens. The agricultural economy is still underdeveloped and limited to meeting the food requirements of the tribes. It lacks diversification due to which it is highly vulnerable to the climate change as well. In recent years the tribes face a host of diverse challenges and new constraints due to the degradation of natural resources, and increasing demand for food. These challenges can be addressed by diversification of tribal farming. In the fragile island environment in which the agricultural development has to take place, it is particularly important that it addresses the environmental concern and inculcate stability to the tribal system. It should also take into account the tribal customs and availability of resources. In the last few years increased interaction with the local people, capacity building, characterization of the resources of these islands at larger scale and research efforts to understand and enhance the farm production in Nicobar Islands have helped to generate lot of information pertaining to the tribal farming. We have also engaged in implementation of several programmes aimed at diversification of tribal farming system. This experience is translated into information and documented. These are very vital information required by several stakeholders for successful implementation of any developmental plan. In this book we have made an attempt to bring together our experiences and past work carried out on diversification of tribal farming system. We have also endeavored to analyze and comprehend the information on the tribal farming practiced in the tropical islands.