Identification and Documentation of Agricultural Indigenous Technical Knowledge among Yimkhiung Tribe, Nagaland, India
147
Authors
Yotanla S. Yimchunger
Nagaland University
Keywords:
Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK), Identification, Documentation, Yimkhiung, NagalandAbstract
Nagaland, inhabited by 17 major tribes, possesses rich agricultural knowledge, with each tribe maintaining distinct customs while sharing a deep connection to nature and biodiversity. All the tribes have been practicing traditional methods of agriculture. Thus, the study was conducted out in the year 2025 with the objective to identify and document the agricultural Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) among the Yimkhiung tribe of Nagaland, India. The research was carried out in the Kiphire district covering Pungro and Khongsa blocks selected purposively, and three villages from each block were chosen randomly, namely Pungro, Old Vongti, Luthur, Longkhimvong, Khong, and Mimi, with a sample size of 120. Multistage random sampling method and descriptive research design were adopted. A total of 35 agricultural ITKs were identified and documented. Assessment of Effectiveness of 18 ITKs were also measured using PEI (Perceived Effectiveness Index). However, the preservation of ITK faces obstacles, including language barriers, ethical considerations, and resource limitations. Despite these challenges, documenting ITK is essential to safeguard this invaluable knowledge and facilitate its integration into contemporary practices. Through respectful collaboration, ITK can contribute to a more resilient, culturally rich, and sustainable future for Northeast India and beyond.
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