Smart Tribal Farming for Sustainable Livelihoods in Churachandpur District, Manipur: A Community-Based Model for Tribal Agricultural Transformation

Abstract

Agriculture remains the principal source of livelihood for tribal communities in Churachandpur District, Manipur. Despite favorable agro-climatic conditions and abundant natural resources, agricultural productivity in the district remains relatively low due to dependence on traditional farming systems, inadequate irrigation facilities, poor market integration, limited mechanization, and weak institutional support. This study examines the existing agricultural practices and challenges faced by tribal farmers and proposes a Smart Tribal Farming Model tailored to the socio-economic and ecological conditions of the district. Primary data were collected through a baseline survey conducted in eighteen villages across Tuibong, Lamka South, and Singngat Tribal Development Blocks during November–December 2023. The findings indicate that low adoption of scientific farming practices, inadequate post-harvest infrastructure, poor access to agricultural inputs, and declining youth participation are major constraints affecting agricultural development. Based on these findings, the study proposes an integrated model incorporating climate-smart agriculture, precision farming, irrigation development, crop diversification, digital market linkages, women empowerment, and community-based institutions. The study argues that a localized smart farming approach can significantly enhance productivity, income generation, food security, and environmental sustainability while preserving indigenous agricultural knowledge and tribal cultural values.