Cultural Ecology and Conservation: Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Jharkhand
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62656/Keywords:
Indigenous Knowledge, Ecological Sustainability, Traditional Practices, Cultural Identity, Environmental ConservationAbstract
The indigenous communities of Jharkhand, including the Santhal, Munda, Ho, and Oraon, have developed intricate cultural traditions deeply rooted in ecological wisdom. Their practices, such as sacred grove conservation, seasonal festivals, sustainable agriculture, and water management techniques, reflect a profound understanding of environmental sustainability. These traditions, embedded in oral narratives, myths, and rituals, have historically played a crucial role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecological balance. However, rapid modernization, deforestation, mining, and industrial expansion have led to significant disruptions in traditional knowledge transmission, threatening both cultural identity and environmental stability. This paper explores the embedded knowledge within the cultural and ecological practices of Jharkhand’s indigenous communities, emphasizing how their rituals, kinship structures, and folklore reinforce sustainable living. It highlights the role of Indigenous cosmology in shaping resource management strategies, including community-led conservation of forests and water bodies. Furthermore, it examines the impact of external forces such as urbanization, economic transitions, and climate change on traditional knowledge systems, leading to the erosion of long-standing ecological practices. The study emphasizes the need for collaboration between Indigenous communities, researchers, and policymakers to safeguard and revitalize these sustainable traditions.
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