STUDY HOUR

  1. Introduction: A Biocultural Diversity Hotspot Northeast India, comprising the eight states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, and Tripura, is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. It is home to over 200 ethnic communities, each possessing a wealth of orally transmitted traditional knowledge regarding their environment (Dutta & Dutta, 2005). The region serves as a "cradle of angiosperms," harboring nearly 50% of India's flowering plants and 40% of its endemic species (Mao et al., 2016). This biological richness directly shapes the unique cuisine diversity, ethnobotany, and ethnomedical practices of the region. 2. Cuisine Diversity and Ethno-botany The cuisine of Northeast India is inseparable from its ethno-botany —the study of how people use indigenous plants. Agriculture is the primary occupation, characterized by "Jhum" or shifting cultivation in the hills (Mao et al., 2016). ●      ...

  1. Introduction North East India is a global biodiversity hotspot where traditional conservation practices are deeply intertwined with the spiritual and cultural fabric of indigenous communities. Among these practices, the protection of Sacred Groves , Large Ponds , and Lakes stands out as an ancient and effective method of community-based resource management. 2. Sacred Groves A. Distribution ●        Sacred groves are found extensively across all eight states of North East India, particularly in Meghalaya , Manipur , and Arunachal Pradesh . ●        In Meghalaya, they are known as Law Kyntang (Khasi hills) and Asong Khosi (Garo hills), covering approximately 1,000 square kilometres. ●        In Manipur, they are referred to as Umang Lai , managed by the Meitei community. B. Importance ●        Biodiversity Conservation: These groves act as...

  1. Introduction Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) encompass all biological materials other than timber that are extracted from natural forests for human use. In North East India, a global biodiversity hotspot, NTFPs play a critical role in the socio-economic and nutritional security of indigenous communities. 2. Bamboos and Canes (Rattan) A. Distribution ●        Bamboo: North East India is often called the "Bamboo Paradise," harbouring over 50% of India's bamboo genetic resources. Major species like Bambusa tulda , Dendrocalamus hamiltonii , and Meloconna baccifera are found extensively in Assam, Mizoram, and Manipur. ●        Canes/Rattan: Primarily distributed in the evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Meghalaya. Calamus species are the most dominant. B. Parts Used and Method of Use ●        Shoots: Young, tender bamboo shoots are ha...