Kohima, A study by the University of Nagaland has highlighted how indigenous knowledge supports terrace farming among Angami Nagas, with the institute saying the findings will help support national efforts towards food security and sustainable agriculture.
The use of environmental indicators for agricultural planning and the deep integration of agriculture with the cultural traditions of the community were also found in the new research, Central University said in a statement.
“A study conducted by the University of Nagaland has generated new insights into how traditional knowledge continues to guide and facilitate terrace farming among Angami Naga people. It offers important lessons in sustainable agriculture and food security,” the study said.
The university said that the results of the study will also support national efforts to achieve food security and sustainable agriculture.
Furthermore, the results of this study may also aid in the implementation of policies and development projects that would otherwise hinder indigenous people from using their culturally sensitive agricultural methods.
The findings of the study, published in the journal Sage, are based on doctoral research work conducted by Kitikhutu Nehu under the supervision of Srikanth Yamsani, Assistant Professor at the Center for Tribal Research, Department of Sociology.
Commenting on the research findings, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Nagaland, Jagadish Kumar Patnaik, said: “The study highlights how traditional wisdom continues to maintain agricultural productivity, ecological balance and community resilience in the hill landscapes of Nagaland.”
He added that the results showed that the sustainability of Anghami terrace cultivation depends on the harmonious integration of environmental practices, social cooperation and cultural traditions.
“At a time when the world is searching for sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural solutions, such research underscores the importance of indigenous knowledge systems and the importance of documenting, preserving and learning from them,” Patnaik said.
Unlike previous studies, which focused on the technical aspects of terrace farming, the current study delves into the underlying social, cultural and ecological knowledge system that supports the practice.
“The study provides valuable insights into the sophisticated methods of soil and water management developed by the Angami community over generations, the use of environmental indicators in agricultural planning, and the deep cultural values embedded in agricultural practices,” Patnaik said.
He added that this proved that indigenous knowledge is not just a legacy of the past, but a living system that contributes significantly to sustainable development and environmental care.
Speaking about the significance of the research, lead researcher Srikanth Yamsani said: “Our study found that Angami Naga people continue to practice agriculture in close association with the cycles and signs of nature. Farmers plant, sow and harvest using clues such as flowering times of plants and the habits of birds and insects.”
He added that while these forms of agricultural practices remain strong, it is important to note the new challenges that farmers face, such as changing rainfall patterns and climate variability.
Northeast India has diverse agricultural practices due to its diverse agro-climatic zones and indigenous traditions rooted in the community.
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