The correct answer is: d) All of the above
Shifting cultivation, also known as jhum cultivation, is a traditional agricultural practice in which land is cleared and cultivated for a few years before being abandoned and allowed to regenerate. This practice is common in many parts of the world, including Meghalaya, India.
In recent years, there has been a decline in shifting cultivation in Meghalaya. This is due to a number of factors, including population growth, deforestation, and government policies. The decline in shifting cultivation is leading to changes in cropping patterns, including more settled agriculture, increased monocropping, and a focus on cash crops.
More settled agriculture is the practice of cultivating land on a permanent basis. This is in contrast to shifting cultivation, in which land is only cultivated for a few years before being abandoned. More settled agriculture is more efficient than shifting cultivation, as it allows farmers to invest in permanent infrastructure, such as irrigation systems and fences.
Increased monocropping is the practice of cultivating a single crop on a large area of land. This is in contrast to mixed cropping, in which a variety of crops are cultivated on the same land. Monocropping is more efficient than mixed cropping, as it allows farmers to specialize in the production of a single crop. However, monocropping can be harmful to the environment, as it can lead to soil erosion and the loss of biodiversity.
A focus on cash crops is the practice of cultivating crops that are primarily grown for sale, rather than for subsistence. This is in contrast to subsistence crops, which are grown primarily for food. A focus on cash crops can lead to economic development, as it can provide farmers with a source of income. However, it can also lead to environmental problems, as cash crops are often grown at the expense of food crops.
In conclusion, the decline in shifting cultivation in Meghalaya is leading to changes in cropping patterns, including more settled agriculture, increased monocropping, and a focus on cash crops. These changes are having both positive and negative impacts on the environment and the economy of Meghalaya.