A Time to Hunt, a Time to Sow, a Time to Move to a New Field
This section examines the dynamic lifestyles of various tribal communities in India, particularly focusing on the shift from traditional practices of shifting cultivation and subsistence economy to more settled forms under colonial rule. Tribal groups like the Mundas, Khonds, and Baigas adapted to complex changes influenced by external forces—particularly the British colonial government—who imposed new land and forest laws.
Key Practices of Tribal Life
1. Shifting Cultivation
Tribal people practiced jhum cultivation, a form of shifting agriculture, which entailed clearing patches of forest land to cultivate crops. Once the soil gave way, they would move on to a different patch, allowing the original plot to remain fallow, thereby maintaining soil fertility.
2. Hunting and Gathering
Many tribes relied on forests for their livelihood through hunting and gathering. The Khonds, for example, engaged in collective hunts and utilized forest resources for food and commercial trade.
3. Animal Husbandry
Petty herding was also common among some tribes, exemplifying their adaptation to various ecological landscapes, ensuring food security through livestock.
Impact of Colonial Policies
The British colonial administration introduced policies that drastically affected tribal livelihoods:
- Land Settlements: These were designed to enforce fixed revenue collection, leading to loss of traditional land rights.
- Forest Laws: These restricted the movement and traditional practices of tribals, pushing them further into subsistence crises.
The Reactions of Tribal Communities
The text also discusses the resistance against these transformations, including the significant revolt led by Birsa Munda, who sought to restore tribal rights and promote a vision of a harmonious social order against oppressive forces dubbed 'dikus'—moneylenders, landlords, and colonial officials.
Conclusion
The section illustrates how the complexities of tribal life were shaped by their environment and socio-economic pressures, showcasing their resilience in preserving their identity while responding to external changes.