Traditional Agroecosystems of Northeast India and Their Role in Climate Change Mitigation

Abstract

Northeast India is known for its distinctive traditional agroecosystems and abundant biodiversity that have been used for millennia by indigenous tribes. Their agroecosystems are maintained with a range of unique traditional agricultural practices varied from taungya, jhum, paan jhum, and home garden to settled agriculture of rice and other cash crops. In addition to supporting the local population, these agroecosystems serve as vital strategies for reducing climate change consequences and the impact. It is the combination of managing forests, raising livestock, and cultivating crops that are specific to the climate and topography of the area. Thus, it is characterized by varied and sustainable agricultural practices. Agroforestry is another essential component that improves soil fertility, acts as windbreaks, and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by sequestering atmospheric CO2. Likewise, integrated livestock management is another vital component of traditional agroecosystem practices that lessens the need for synthetic fertilizers and contributes to carbon sequestration by preserving grasslands and preventing the encroachment of forests. Chemical fertilizers, hybrid varieties, and a range of weedicides, insecticides, and fungicides are being utilized as a result of modern advancements in agriculture to increase productivity, which eventually worsens the condition of agroecosystems. Therefore, it is important to focus on the traditional agroecosystems. It not only maintains biodiversity and soil health but has a significant role in climate change mitigation by reducing the global carbon footprint. It has the potential to create synergies between initiatives to reduce climate change, conserve rare plant species, and assist vulnerable populations in coping with the adverse effects of climate change. Thus, recognizing the importance of traditional agroecosystems and encouraging their continuation will be an important factor in the area of sustainable agriculture and also aid in the attainment of various Sustainable Development Goals. © 2024 Scrivener Publishing LLC.