Vol. 7, Issue 9, Part G (2025)

Tribal agriculture in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha reflects a unique blend of ecological adaptation, cultural tradition, and livelihood necessity. The indigenous communities, particularly the Santals, Bhumija, and Kolha, rely on time-tested farming practices such as shifting cultivation, mixed cropping, and organic soil management that are closely tied to their social and spiritual life. These practices not only ensure household food security but also sustain ecological balance in a resource-constrained environment. Agriculture continues to serve as the backbone of livelihoods, complementing forest-based subsistence activities and seasonal wage labor. A recent study conducted in three blocks of the district Khunta, Baripada, and Samakhunta underscored the central role of agriculture in tribal households while also revealing emerging challenges such as climate variability, declining land productivity, and policy constraints. The findings highlight the need for integrated strategies that preserve indigenous knowledge, strengthen food security, and promote sustainable agricultural development among the tribal communities of Mayurbhanj.