Optimization of Resources under Settled and Shifting cultivation in the Hill Zones of Assam

Abstract

The present study was undertaken in the hill zone of Assam which
comprised of Karbi Anglong and North Cacher Hill districts. Both the
production systems of settled and shifting cultivation are followed in the
zone. The study was based on primary data of 200 sample households out
of which 100 sample households followed shifting cultivation and the rest
100 sample households followed the settled cultivation. The sample
households were selected by using multistage random sampling procedure
and selected households were categorized into three size groups based on
area under settled and shifting cultivation using cumulative root frequency
rule. Data pertained to the year 1999-2000 and were collected from the
sample households by interview method of sampling using structured
schedules. In total, 10 cropping sequences and 4 different crop mixtures
were identified under settled and shifting cultivation respectively. The linear programming technique was used to prepare micro-level production plan over the existing production plan for sustainability under both the system of cultivation. Optimization of resources resulted in substantial increase in cropping intensity and cropping area. There were scope of increasing income and employment in all farm sizes under settled and shifting cultivation.