The correct answer is: a) Jhum.
Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation, slash-and-burn agriculture, or swidden agriculture, is a traditional agricultural system in which farmers clear a piece of land by cutting and burning the vegetation, then cultivate it for a few years until the soil is exhausted, and then move on to another piece of land. This type of agriculture is often practiced in tropical rainforests, where the soil is relatively thin and nutrient-poor.
Jhum cultivation is a sustainable agricultural practice when it is done in a way that allows the forest to regenerate. However, when it is done at too high a frequency, it can lead to deforestation and soil erosion.
In Assam, jhum cultivation is known as jhum. It is the traditional method of cultivation practiced by the tribal people of Assam. Jhum cultivation involves clearing a piece of forest land by cutting and burning the trees and shrubs. The ashes from the burning help to fertilize the soil. The land is then cultivated for a few years until the soil is exhausted. After that, the farmers move on to another piece of land and repeat the process.
Jhum cultivation is a sustainable agricultural practice when it is done in a way that allows the forest to regenerate. However, when it is done at too high a frequency, it can lead to deforestation and soil erosion.
The other options are:
- Taungya: Taungya is a system of agroforestry in which farmers plant trees on land that has been cleared for cultivation. The trees provide shade and windbreaks for the crops, and the farmers harvest the trees for timber or other products.
- Terrace farming: Terrace farming is a method of agriculture in which fields are built on terraces on hillsides. This helps to prevent soil erosion and allows farmers to cultivate land that would otherwise be too steep.
- Contour farming: Contour farming is a method of agriculture in which fields are planted along the contours of the land. This helps to prevent soil erosion and allows farmers to use water more efficiently.