History of Traditional Agricultural Practices A Study of the Galos of Arunachal Pradesh

Abstract

The Galos is one of the tribes of Arunachal Pradesh. According to the 2011 census record, their total population is about 1, 12,272. They are distributed over large areas in West Siang, Lepa-Rada, Lower Siang and parts of East Siang and Upper Subansiri districts respectively. They are greatly depending on jhum cultivation (Modi Rik) and they are continuing this primitive way of cultivation for centuries. There is a belief that the practice of agriculture was started by Abo Tanii. According to myth, the first seed of paddy and maize was given by the Moopin to Abo Tanii, which has been carried by Kiipuu (dog) from the land of Dwgoo Pwnv the heavenly land of Mopin Moji. Since then Galos is cultivating in their land which is continuing these days in providing food for the people in this land. In this proposed research an attempt is made to study the Galos of Arunachal Pradesh and the history of traditional agricultural practices of Galos of West Siang district in particular. Apart from their origin and immigration, their settlement pattern and demographic study are very important, which can help us to understand the history of Galos. It is important to study the traditional land ownership in jhum plots and its allied aspects in the context of tradition and modernity of agricultural practices. There shall also be an attempt to examine terrace cultivation and wet rice cultivation practice by them and its origins. Therefore, a humble attempt is made to unravel the history and origin of traditional agricultural practices among the Galos. In addition to above all, the study further aims to know how agriculture affects the socio-economic life of Galos in particular and people of Arunachal Pradesh in general.