📚 Part of: Madhya Pradesh Geography And History Mcqs

In India, Jhumming, a primitive form of cultivation, is called 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya' in .....

Category: Madhya Pradesh Gk

Correct Answer: D) Madhya Pradesh.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, State PSC Exams, Geography Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

Jhumming, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice where a plot of land is cleared by cutting and burning vegetation. In Madhya Pradesh, this practice is locally known as 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya'. This method is particularly prevalent in tribal areas and is an important part of the local agricultural heritage.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing the terms 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya' with other agricultural practices in different states.
  • Misunderstanding the geographical distribution of Jhumming practices across India.
  • Not recognizing the regional variations in terminology for the same agricultural practice.
Explanation:

Jhumming, also known as shifting cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice that involves clearing a plot of land by cutting and burning vegetation. This method is particularly prevalent in tribal areas and is an important part of the local agricultural heritage. The practice is widespread in various parts of India, but the terminology used to describe it can vary significantly from one region to another.

In Madhya Pradesh, Jhumming is locally known as 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya'. These terms are specific to the agricultural practices of the region and reflect the local cultural and linguistic context. The practice of Bewar or Dahiya involves clearing a piece of land by cutting down trees and burning the vegetation. The cleared land is then used for cultivation for a few years before being abandoned and allowed to regenerate. This cycle of cultivation and regeneration is a key feature of shifting cultivation.

It is important to note that while Jhumming is practiced in several states in India, the terms used to describe it can differ. For example, in Odisha, the practice is known by different names and is not referred to as 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya'. Similarly, in Chhattisgarh and Andhra Pradesh, the practice has its own local names and is not called 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya'.

Understanding the regional variations in terminology for agricultural practices is crucial for comprehending the cultural and linguistic diversity of India. The terms 'Bewar' and 'Dahiya' are specific to Madhya Pradesh and reflect the unique agricultural heritage of the region. This knowledge is particularly relevant for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services and State PSC Exams, where questions on regional agricultural practices and terminology are common.

In summary, the correct answer is Madhya Pradesh, as the terms 'Bewar' and 'Dahiya' are specific to the region and are used to describe the practice of Jhumming or shifting cultivation. This understanding of regional agricultural practices and terminology is essential for a comprehensive grasp of the agricultural heritage of India.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Odisha is not the correct answer. While Jhumming is practiced in Odisha, it is not referred to as 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya' there. The terms 'Bewar' and 'Dahiya' are specific to Madhya Pradesh.
  • Option B: Chhattisgarh is incorrect. Although Chhattisgarh shares some cultural and agricultural practices with Madhya Pradesh, the terms 'Bewar' and 'Dahiya' are not used in Chhattisgarh for Jhumming. The practice in Chhattisgarh has different local names.
  • Option C: Andhra Pradesh is not the correct answer. Jhumming is not commonly referred to as 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya' in Andhra Pradesh. The terms used in Andhra Pradesh for similar agricultural practices are different.
  • Option D: Madhya Pradesh is the correct answer. In Madhya Pradesh, the primitive form of cultivation known as Jhumming is locally called 'Bewar' or 'Dahiya'. This terminology is specific to the agricultural practices of the region and is an important part of the local cultural and agricultural heritage.

Mnemonic: Jhumming in Madhya Pradesh is Bewar or Dahiya.

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