Which of the following agricultural practices is called Ponam in Kerala and Podu in Odisha?

Correct option is C

The correct answer is: (c) Shifting cultivation

• Shifting cultivation is a traditional method of agriculture where land is cleared by slashing and burning, crops are grown for a few years, and then the land is left fallow to regain fertility.

• This practice is locally known as "Ponam" in Kerala and "Podu" in Odisha.

• It is mostly practiced by tribal communities in hilly and forested regions.

• Also called slash and burn agriculture.

• Common in North-Eastern states, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, etc.

• Known as Jhum in North-East, Bewar in Madhya Pradesh, Podu in Odisha, and Ponam in Kerala.

• It is not sustainable, often leading to deforestation and soil degradation.

• Involves low input, low output farming.

• Practiced mostly for subsistence, not commercial gain.

• Plantation farming – Involves large-scale cultivation of crops like tea, coffee, rubber; practiced for commercial purposes.

• Subsistence farming – Growing food mainly for the farmer’s family; involves traditional tools and methods.

• Commercial farming – Involves use of modern technology and large output for sale in markets.