Indigenous knowledge to ensure food security: Revisiting grain storage practices in Meghalaya, India
Keywords:
Indigenous Traditional Knowledge, Seed, Storage structures, MeghalayaAbstract
Seed and grain storage has been an integral part of agricultural practices across various regions, with indigenous methods evolving according to local conditions, resources and access to changing technologies. These traditional methods are the foundation of sustainable agriculture, but have been increasingly threatened by rapid changes brought on by modernization and global development. As a result, vital knowledge is at risk of being lost, particularly among younger generations. This study aims to explore the Indigenous Traditional Knowledge (ITK) related to seed and grain storage among the people of Meghalaya. This study identifies 10 traditional storage structures-Jam-nok, Ongare, Koksi, Ka Ruh Heh, Peti, Thiar, Dul, Kadee Rama, Kera-Tengreng-Kokbal and Rongbol-employed in the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya. ITKs were collected from 04 villages of East Garo Hills district, 04 villages of West Garo Hills, 02 villages of East Khasi Hills district and 02 villages in East Jaintia Hills district. These storage systems are crafted from locally available materials, reflecting an eco-friendly and culturally adaptive approach to preserving seeds and grains.
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