Baranaaja: The Traditional Mixed Cropping System of the Central Himalaya

Abstract

The authors describe the traditional cropping pattern of the central Himalayan region, known as ‘Baranaaja’. This mixed cropping pattern often involves 12 crops under low intensity and less frequent economic intervention. With improved scientific inputs this system can be ideal in terms of agronomic yields and soil fertility maintenance. The authors substantiate the characteristics of the traditional system by describing the advantages of similar cultural practices in agroecosystems around the world, with a view to establishing that this system, an example of ‘conservation agriculture’, can be useful in meeting food requirements and preserving agrobiodiversity.

Keywords

mixed cropping traditional agroecosystem central Himalaya Baranaaja

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