**Primitive Subsistence Farming in North-Eastern States**

**Introduction**
Primitive subsistence farming is a traditional agricultural practice characterized by low productivity and the use of simple tools and techniques. It is predominantly practiced in rural areas, where the main objective is to meet the basic needs of the farmer and their family. In the north-eastern states of India, such as Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland, primitive subsistence farming is known by the term "Jhumming".

**Jhumming or Shifting Cultivation**
Jhumming, also known as shifting cultivation, is a prevalent form of primitive subsistence farming practiced in the hilly regions of these north-eastern states. It is a traditional agricultural system that involves clearing a patch of land in the forest and cultivating crops for a few years until the soil fertility declines. After a certain period, the cultivators abandon the land and move on to a new plot, allowing the previously used land to regenerate naturally.

**Process of Jhumming**
The process of Jhumming involves several stages:

1. **Clearing of Land**: The first step is to clear a portion of the forest by cutting down trees and shrubs. The vegetation is then left to dry and is later burned to create ash, which acts as a natural fertilizer.

2. **Cultivation**: Once the land is cleared, crops such as rice, maize, millets, or vegetables are sown. The cultivation is done using simple tools like axes, hoes, and knives.

3. **Harvesting**: The crops are harvested after a specific period, depending on the crop type and local practices. The yield is generally low due to the limited use of modern agricultural techniques.

4. **Land Abandonment**: After a few years of cultivation, when the soil fertility declines, the cultivators abandon the land and move on to a new plot. The previously cultivated land is left fallow, allowing natural regeneration to take place.

**Advantages and Challenges**
Jhumming has its advantages and challenges:

1. **Advantages**:
- Jhumming allows farmers to utilize forest resources for their livelihoods.
- It provides a diverse range of crops, contributing to food security.
- It maintains the ecological balance of the forest ecosystem.

2. **Challenges**:
- Jhumming is often criticized for its environmental impact, as the burning of vegetation contributes to deforestation and soil erosion.
- The low productivity of Jhumming farming makes it difficult for farmers to improve their economic conditions.
- The practice is also affected by changing social and economic factors, leading to the decline of traditional knowledge and practices.

**Conclusion**
Primitive subsistence farming, known as Jhumming in the north-eastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, and Nagaland, is an age-old agricultural practice that relies on shifting cultivation. While it has its advantages in utilizing forest resources and providing food security, it also faces challenges such as environmental degradation and low productivity. Efforts should be made to promote sustainable farming practices and provide alternative livelihood options to the farmers practicing Jhumming.

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