jhum

Definition

A traditional, rotational agricultural system, also known as slash-and-burn, where patches of forest or scrub are cleared and burned to plant crops.

Etymology

The word comes from the Bengali term 'jhum' (also referred to as 'jhoom'), which originated in the northeastern regions of the Indian subcontinent to describe the indigenous practice of shifting cultivation.

In the news

The article contrasts coffee farming with jhum cultivation, highlighting how coffee provides a more stable, long-term income and reduces the deforestation associated with the older jhum practice.

A cup of coffee, grown closer to home

The Daily Star

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