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Vishwambhar Prasad Sati

Abstract

This paper examines the traditional farming systems and their sustainability, in terms of food security, and what measures to be adapted for enhancement of livelihood of the inhabitants in the Garhwal Himalaya. The Garhwal Himalaya is located in the centre of the Himalayan Mountain System. Characterised by harsh climatic conditions, rough, rugged and precipitous terrain, fragile landscape and economic backwardness, about 95 per cent of the total population are inhabited in rural areas. Traditional cereal farming is the main occupation of the populace as about 80 per cent population are engaged in the production of cereal crops and livestock farming. The farming system in Garhwal Himalaya is peculiar, which is based upon the centuries old practices and carried out mainly on the narrow patches of the terraced fields. The main crops grown are paddy, wheat, barley, millets, pulses, and oilseeds. The economic viability of these crops is insufficient even to meet the food requirement of the populace but these crops are environmentally sound and suitable for this ecologically fragile terrain. The scope for further expansion and modernisation of agriculture practices is not viable due to the fragility of terrain and precipitous slope. Therefore, an exodus of population emigrated to the foothills of Himalaya and major urban centres of country for the search of job or recruited in national Army. Enhancing and diversifying livelihood options, other than biomass-based production, will definitely raise the income and food-security of the rural mountain people, as the agro-climatic conditions in this region are very much feasible for the cultivation of cash generating crops. Therefore, the scope of cultivation of off-season vegetables, fruits, medicinal plants and collection of non-timber based forest products are tremendous. Cultivation of fruits will also manifest a way for ecological restoration of the fragile terrain and will enhance the economic level and sustainable livelihood of the inhabitants. Thus, it is suggested that the optimum harnessing of these products will surely provide a base for sustainable livelihood in the region. Data on farming systems were gathered from the primary and secondary sources. Primary data were gathered through structured questionnaire and household survey was done to study agricultural pattern and production trend. Case studies of the villages were also done for collection of data on horticultural practices.

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Vishwambhar Prasad Sati ¹, Lalrinpuia Vangchhia ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Geography and Resource Management, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796 004, IN

Abstract

This communication examines nutritional status and its impact on infant mortality rate (IMR) in Saiha district, Mizoram, India. 1650 mothers from 17 villages were surveyed using random sampling method. The district has very high IMR (219.6), significantly higher than Mizoram (35). Meanwhile, per day per capita calorie intake is 1703, which is less than the recommended dietary intake (2400 kcal). All food items which people consume daily were collected and nutritional status was assessed. Our result shows that high IMR in the district is due to food insecurity and malnutrition.

Keywords

Food Insecurity, Infant Mortality Rate, Nutrition Status, Pregnant Mothers.

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Vishwambhar Prasad Sati ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Geography and Resource Management, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796 004, IN

Abstract

This article aims to examine the use pattern and potentiality of livestock farming in the Uttarakhand Himalaya, India. We collected and compared data on livestock population and production in 13 districts of Uttarakhand (2001-14) and noted that number of milching livestock, improved hen and milk production increased during the period. Meanwhile, population of sheep, goat, lamb and indigenous hen has decreased. The study reveals that livestock farming, including cattle, milching animals, goat and sheep has high potential in livelihood sustainability. Similarly, dairy farming has a prominent role in economic development as it shares 69.1% gross income.

Keywords

Livestock Farming, Livelihood, Socio-Economy, Sustainability.

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Vishwambhar Prasad Sati ¹, Deng Wei ²

Affiliations
1 Department of Geography and Resource Management, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796 004, IN
2 Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, CAS, Chengdu - 610041, CN

Abstract

Crop productivity and suitability evaluation form a prerequisite for land use planning. Soil properties and agro-climatic conditions further influence crop performance. This communication examines crop productivity and suitability in view of agro-ecological conditions and soil properties. Time series data of major crops were gathered from secondary sources and their mean value was obtained. Further, district-wise crop productivity of major crops was analysed and suitability criteria evaluated. We observed that crop productivity is low in the mountainous mainland compared to plain districts. However productivity also varies from crop to crop. Our study further revealed that the highlands are suitable for growing potato, small millets, pulses and temperate fruits whereas the valley regions are suitable for growing citrus fruits, paddy, wheat and spices. Tarai and Doon plains are suitable for growing sugarcane, paddy and wheat.

Keywords

Arable Land, Productivity, Suitability Analysis, Uttarakhand Himalaya.

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