By: HARSHDEEP SINGH DHANJAL, K.K.N. SHARMA
India hosts approximately 10.4 million tribal individuals, accounting for 8.6 percent of its total population. These tribes, living in close harmony with nature, have developed significant indigenous practices and technologies to utilize the extensive resources available in their regions, along with related bio-cultural knowledge. India has nurtured a rich traditional civilization for over 5,000 years. Given the country’s substantial tribal population, its long history, and rich culture, there is a wealth of indigenous knowledge throughout the nation. This knowledge comprises the collective experiences of community members, passed down across generations through cultural transmission. It is holistic, verbally conveyed, and has evolved from years of continuous experimentation in daily life. However, as the indigenous population ages, this knowledge is rapidly declining, which is concerning. Since indigenous knowledge is closely linked to sustainable development, it is crucial to document, conserve, and preserve this invaluable asset. This study aims to investigate the indigenous knowledge of farmers from two tribal communities in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, focusing on their farming methods, animal care, and rainfall prediction.
