Jhum Cultivators and Their Practices
This section explores the traditional agricultural practice of jhum cultivation, primarily practiced by tribal communities in hilly and forested areas of India. Jhum cultivation involves clearing patches of forest land by cutting down trees and burning the vegetation, creating fertile land for subsistence farming. The ash from the burnt vegetation serves as a natural fertilizer, and seeds are scattered instead of drilled into the ground.
Societal Structures and Livelihoods
Tribal groups were not only jhum cultivators; many were also hunters and gatherers, heavily reliant on the forests for their survival. For instance, the Khonds in Orissa hunted collectively and gathered food, relying on their environment for sustenance. Despite their communal lifestyle, social hierarchies existed within tribes, distinguishing between wealth and power among clan members.
Impact of British Colonial Rule
The arrival of British colonial powers significantly affected tribal communities. The British implemented land settlements that forced many jhum cultivators into settled agriculture, disrupting their traditional lifestyle. Additionally, the introduction of forest laws restricted access to land and resources, leading to dependencies on traders and moneylenders, often resulting in debt. As their livelihoods were threatened, tribal communities began seeking means to resist colonization, setting the stage for revolts against perceived oppression.
Significance
Overall, the examination of jhum cultivators highlights the delicate balance between tribal communities and their environment, illustrating how external forces like colonization can lead to profound cultural and economic changes.