What is ‘Bringa’ in Orissa?
A local name of ‘slash and burn’ agriculture
Understanding ‘Bringa’ in Orissa
‘Bringa’ is a term specific to the state of Orissa (now Odisha) in India. It refers to a traditional agricultural practice. Let's explore what this term signifies.
What is Slash and Burn Agriculture?
Slash and burn agriculture, also known as shifting cultivation, is a method often practiced in tropical or subtropical regions. It involves:
- Cutting down trees and vegetation in a forest or wooded area.
- Allowing the cleared vegetation to dry.
- Burning the dried vegetation. The ash provides nutrients to the soil, acting as a temporary fertilizer.
- Cultivating crops on the cleared land for a few seasons until soil fertility declines.
- Abandoning the plot and moving to a new area to repeat the process, allowing the abandoned plot to regenerate over time.
This practice is known by different local names in various parts of India and the world.
Bringa: The Local Name in Orissa
In Orissa (Odisha), one of the local names used for this type of shifting cultivation is ‘Bringa’. It is practiced by some tribal communities in the state's hilly and forested regions.
Analyzing the Options
Let's look at the given options to identify the correct meaning of ‘Bringa’ in Orissa:
| Option | Analysis |
|---|---|
| 1. A village known for diamond mines | There is no widespread information suggesting ‘Bringa’ is a specific village famous for diamond mines in Orissa. |
| 2. A stone weapon used by the aboriginals | ‘Bringa’ is not commonly known as a type of stone weapon. |
| 3. An edible oil used by the aboriginals | There is no known edible oil referred to as ‘Bringa’ used by communities in Orissa. |
| 4. A local name of ‘slash and burn’ agriculture | ‘Bringa’ is indeed a recognized local term for shifting cultivation or ‘slash and burn’ agriculture practiced in Orissa. |
Based on the understanding of tribal agricultural practices and terminology in Orissa, ‘Bringa’ accurately describes the local name for ‘slash and burn’ agriculture.
Understanding Local Agricultural Terms
Different regions and communities in India have unique names for shifting cultivation. Some examples include:
- Jhum: North-Eastern India
- Podu: Andhra Pradesh, Orissa
- Bewar or Dahiya: Madhya Pradesh
- Pamlou: Manipur
- Dip: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
‘Bringa’ is another such local term specific to Orissa, falling under the broader category of shifting cultivation, locally known as ‘Podu’ in some parts, with ‘Bringa’ being a specific variation or name used by certain groups or areas within the state.
Revision Table: Key Concepts
| Term | Meaning in Orissa Context |
|---|---|
| Bringa | A local name for 'slash and burn' agriculture (shifting cultivation) |
| Shifting Cultivation | Agricultural system where land is cleared, cultivated for a few years, then abandoned for a new area. |
| Orissa (Odisha) | Indian state where 'Bringa' is practiced by some communities. |
Additional Information on Shifting Cultivation in Orissa
Shifting cultivation, including the practice locally called ‘Bringa’ or ‘Podu’, has been historically significant for many tribal communities in Orissa. It is deeply intertwined with their culture and livelihood. However, due to environmental concerns like deforestation and soil erosion, there have been efforts by the government and other organizations to promote alternative, settled agricultural methods. Despite this, the practice continues in some remote areas, often adapting to changing circumstances.
Important Questions from Agriculture
Which one of the following terms describes the practice of growing two or more crops simultaneously on the same piece of land?
Directions: The following 05 (Five) items consist of two statements, Statement I and Statement II. Examine these two statements carefully and select the answers to these items using the code given below:
Statement I: India has a wide variation in population density.
Statement II: Factors like agricultural productivity and the history of the settlement have greatly influenced the population density pattern in India.
Which of the following are the characteristics of organic farming?
1. Use of chemical fertilizers to improve soil fertility.
2. Frequent decomposing and fallowing.
3. Use of herbs to control pests.
4. Higher productivity per hectare.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A farmer in a semi-arid area claims that his farming practice is very environment friendly. Which of the following practices on his farm can justify his claim?
1. Planning a tree belt.
2. Practising crop rotation.
3. Carrying out a large scale irrigation system
4. Using organic fertilizers.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
Which of the following statements about the Livestock sector in India is/are correct?
1. Livestock contributed about 25 per cent of gross value added in agriculture.
2. It provides self-employment to a large segment of the population
3. The rapid growth of the livestock sector can be egalitarian inclusive
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
