The correct answer is: a) Shifting cultivation (Jhum).
Shifting cultivation, also known as jhum cultivation, is a traditional agricultural system practiced by many ethnic groups in the hills of Nagaland. It is a form of subsistence agriculture in which land is cleared and cultivated for a few years, then abandoned and allowed to regenerate for a period of time before being cleared again. This system is sustainable in the long term as it allows the land to recover and regenerate its nutrients. However, it can be destructive in the short term if it is not practiced carefully.
Terrace farming is a type of agriculture that is practiced on steep slopes. It involves building terraces on the slopes to create a series of flat surfaces that can be used for cultivation. Terrace farming helps to prevent soil erosion and makes it possible to grow crops on land that would otherwise be unsuitable for agriculture.
Irrigation-based agriculture is a type of agriculture that relies on irrigation to provide water for crops. It is practiced in areas where rainfall is not sufficient to support crop growth. Irrigation can be used to grow a wide variety of crops, including rice, wheat, corn, and soybeans.
Commercial plantations are large-scale agricultural operations that are typically owned by corporations or other large businesses. They are often used to grow crops for export, such as coffee, tea, and bananas. Commercial plantations can have a negative impact on the environment and on the local communities where they are located.
In conclusion, the dominant cropping pattern in Nagaland is influenced by shifting cultivation (Jhum). This is a traditional agricultural system that is sustainable in the long term but can be destructive in the short term if it is not practiced carefully.