Traditional agroforestry for food security and agrobiodiversity- The Angami Naga nhalie-teizie binary system in Nagaland state of India

Abstract

Traditional agroforestry practice of Angami Nagas is the integrated system of cultivating multipurpose local tree species with traditional crops varieties. Nhalie (slash and burn) and teizie (home garden) are the two major forms of traditional agroforestry which are the primary sources of food, medicine, firewood, fodder, cultural needs, livelihoods and other utilities of equal importance. The present study, which was conducted from, March 2016 to November 2019, aims to investigate the contribution of traditional agroforestry to food security among the Angami Nagas of Kohima district, Nagaland. Data collection methods included group discussion, semi-structured interview and field observations. Angami agroforestry is the main repository of agrobiodiversity. Agrobiodiversity plays important role in food security of the Angami Nagas. Agrobiodiversity avails of continuous accessibility of diverse foods all the year round. This study documented 32 species under 8 types of crops cultivated in nhalie and 71 species of food plants from teizie (homegarden). Nhalie has the potential to augment coproduction of foods and firewood to meet the increasing needs of food and energy security without negative consequences on environment. Pretty good number of wild edibles and conventional crops growing in home gardens contributes towards supplementing food during off season. Well-designed Angami granary and traditional techniques of preservation help to ensure food security by reducing unwanted post-harvest damages. Angami agroforestry not only enhances food and energy security but also infers as a tool for conservation of agrobiodiversity and sustainable development.