Dongar Cultivation Threatened by Eucalyptus Monoculture in Odisha
The traditional dongar cultivation practiced by the Kondh tribal community in Odisha’s Rayagada district faces a severe threat. The spread of eucalyptus monoculture, driven by commercial interests such as paper mills, is endangering this ancient mixed cropping system. The shift is leading to loss of food diversity, soil degradation and ecological imbalance in the upland and midland areas of the district.
Traditional Dongar Cultivation
Dongar is an upland mixed cropping system on hill slopes. It includes millets, pulses and oilseeds grown together. This method supports food diversity and ecological balance. It is climate-resilient and suited to the hilly terrain of Rayagada. The Kondh tribal groups, including Talia Kondhs and Kutia Kondhs, have practised it for generations.
Rise of Eucalyptus Monoculture
Eucalyptus plantations have expanded from lowlands to uplands and midlands. This tree is grown mainly for paper mills. Plantation crops like eucalyptus take about five years to mature. Farmers lease their lands for low returns, often between Rs 1,500 and Rs 3,000 per acre. The monoculture replaces traditional crops and reduces uncultivated food sources like tubers.
Impact
Monoculture eucalyptus harms soil fertility and causes water scarcity. It disrupts local biodiversity; birds avoid eucalyptus areas. The dominance of eucalyptus threatens food sovereignty and traditional farming knowledge. Tribal farmers lose access to diverse food crops and natural resources. Seed conservation and organic practices are declining.
Efforts to Preserve Dongar
Non-profit organisations such as Living Farms work with local communities to revive dongar cultivation. Awareness campaigns educate farmers on the benefits of mixed cropping for climate resilience. Elders share traditional knowledge on seed exchange and organic farming. The goal is to reduce dependency on monoculture and protect upland ecosystems.
Challenges Ahead
The spread of eucalyptus is widespread and difficult to control. Paper mills and external interests promote monoculture for commercial gain. Tribal farmers face pressure to lease lands for short-term income. Without sustained support, the Kondh community risks food insecurity and loss of cultural heritage.
Millets and Climate Resilience
Millets, once widely grown in dongar lands, are climate-resilient crops. The International Year of Millets in 2023 brought into light their importance. However, millets are being replaced by eucalyptus and BT cotton monocultures. Reviving millet cultivation is crucial for sustainable agriculture and nutrition security in the region.
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