TRADITIONAL KNOWLEDGE IN SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE: A REVIEW OF INDIGENOUS FARMING PRACTICES IN INDIA

BOTANY

Traditional agricultural practices have long been the foundation of India’s agrarian economy, playing a vital role in food security, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable resource management (Altieri, 2004; Berkes, 2008). Indigenous farming techniques, passed down through generations, are deeply embedded in cultural traditions and environmental wisdom, offering viable alternatives to modern, high-input agricultural methods (Ramakrishnan, 2001; Pretty, 2002). These time-tested practices, including organic farming, crop diversification, agroforestry, and water conservation techniques, contribute to ecological balance while ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability (Sharma & Bhaduri, 2006; Singh et al., 2010). This review explores the diverse indigenous farming practices prevalent across different agro-climatic zones of India and evaluates their ecological, economic, and socio-cultural significance. Findings indicate that these traditional systems promote soil fertility, reduce dependence on chemical inputs, and enhance climate resilience through techniques such as mixed cropping, seed preservation, and natural fertilization (Altieri, 2004; Singh et al., 2010). Moreover, indigenous irrigation methods, such as bamboo drip irrigation and step wells, have historically facilitated efficient water management in drought-prone regions (Berkes, 2008; Ramakrishnan, 2001). Despite their sustainability benefits, indigenous farming practices face challenges, including declining interest among younger generations, lack of institutional support, and market-driven agricultural policies favoring commercial crop production (Pretty, 2002; Sharma & Bhaduri, 2006). The study underscores the need for integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific advancements to create a resilient and sustainable agricultural framework. Policy interventions that support farmer-led conservation initiatives, access to organic markets, and community-based knowledge-sharing platforms are essential for revitalizing traditional farming systems (Berkes, 2008; Singh et al., 2010). By recognizing and preserving indigenous agricultural wisdom, India can develop ecologically sound and economically viable farming models that ensure long-term food security and environmental sustainability.

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