In Madhya Pradesh, slash and burn agriculture is known as ________.

Explanation

• In Madhya Pradesh, slash-and-burn agriculture is locally known as Bewar or Dahiya.
• This traditional farming method involves cutting down (slashing) forest vegetation and then burning it. The ash adds nutrients to the soil, making it fertile for a short period.
• Farmers cultivate crops like millets, maize, and pulses on this land until the soil fertility declines. After that, the plot is abandoned, and they move to a new patch of forest.
• This practice is a form of shifting cultivation, which is common in tribal and forested regions of India.

Extra Facts

• Regional names of slash-and-burn agriculture in India:
• Environmental impact: While it provides short-term fertility, repeated slash-and-burn can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and loss of biodiversity.
• Cultural aspect: It is often practiced by tribal communities as part of their traditional livelihood system.