Slashing and burning the trees for agriculture is referred to as "Jhum".

Jhum, also known as shifting cultivation or slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional method of farming practiced in various parts of the world, particularly in hilly and forested regions. It involves clearing a patch of land by cutting down the existing vegetation and then burning it to release nutrients into the soil. The land is then cultivated for a few years until the soil fertility declines, at which point the farmers move on to a new area and repeat the process.

Explanation:

1. Jhum as a traditional agricultural practice:
Jhum is predominantly practiced in regions with hilly terrains and dense forests where other forms of agriculture may not be feasible. It is a subsistence farming technique used by indigenous communities to grow crops for their own consumption rather than for commercial purposes.

2. Process of Jhum cultivation:
The process of Jhum cultivation involves several steps:
- Clearing the land: The first step is to clear the land by cutting down the trees and shrubs present. This is usually done during the dry season to ensure that the vegetation is dry and easier to burn.
- Burning the vegetation: After the land is cleared, the vegetation is set on fire. This burning process helps in releasing nutrients stored in the vegetation and also serves to clear the land further by eliminating unwanted plants and pests.
- Cultivation: Once the land has been burned, the farmers sow seeds or plant crops in the ashes and nutrient-rich soil. The crops are mainly food crops such as rice, maize, millets, and vegetables.
- Harvesting: The crops are grown for a few years until the soil fertility declines. The farmers then harvest the crops and move on to a new piece of land for cultivation.
- Regeneration of land: After the land is abandoned, it undergoes a process of natural regeneration, allowing the forest to reclaim the area over time. This cycle of cultivation and fallow periods helps maintain the ecological balance in the region.

3. Benefits and drawbacks of Jhum cultivation:
- Benefits: Jhum cultivation allows indigenous communities to sustain themselves by growing their own food. It also helps in maintaining cultural traditions and preserving local biodiversity. Jhum fields often become habitats for various plant and animal species.
- Drawbacks: However, Jhum cultivation has come under scrutiny due to its impact on deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity. The practice has been blamed for contributing to climate change and reducing the resilience of ecosystems. Efforts are being made to introduce alternative and sustainable farming practices that can provide better livelihoods without causing harm to the environment.

In conclusion, Jhum refers to the process of slashing and burning trees for agriculture. While it has been a long-standing traditional practice for indigenous communities, its environmental impact has raised concerns. Balancing the needs of livelihoods and environmental sustainability is crucial for the future of agriculture in such regions.