This book gives a comprehensive account of socio-economic and bio-physical problems associated with shifting cultivation and solution thereof. Chapter One covers briefly historical background, definition, role of forest policies, work partnership etc. In Chapter Two role of Land tenure system in the continuance of shifting cultivation have been discussed. In Chapter Three emphasis has been laid to study in depth social organisation, social behaviour etc. to establish empirical foundation to formulate strategies for cognitive and behavioural modification of individuals and for planned elimination or minimisation of shifting cultivation. Chapter Four briefly covers bio-physical problems associated with shifting cultivation. Chapter Five covers land development schemes introduced to settle shifting cultivators. Reasons of their poor impact are also identified. In Chapter Six models suggested by various workers to tackle the problems of shifting cultivation are reviewed and their limitations have been discussed. Chapter Seven is devoted to search ecologically and economically sound models having similarity with traditional farming system with ability to increase the productivity on sustained basis without degradation of land. In Chapter Eight need for demarcation of contour lines (simple methods of marking contour lines) and construction of mechanical structure to reduce the loss of soil, water and nutrients have been discussed. Chapter Nine deals steps to be followed in transfer of technology in the shifting cultivators filed. The Chapter are supported by reference at the end of each of them. The photoplates and line diagrams make the book more useful and informative. The book will prove useful to students, research scholars, foresters, agricultural scientists and planners associated with reclamation of jhum land and rehabilitation of shifting cultivators.

Table of Contents:
Preface 1. An Overview of Shifting Cultivation 2. Tenancy, Shifting Cultivation and Deforestation 3. Need for Critical Evaluation of Socio-Cultural Profiles for Further Perspective 4. Need for Critical Evaluation of Bio-physical Problems for Further Planning 5. Land Development Schemes to Rehabilitate Shifting Cultivators 6. Review of Models Suggested to Eradicate Shifting Cultivation 7. Search for Sound Technology 8. Need for Demarcation of Contour Lines and Construction of Mechanical Structure 9. Steps to be Followed in Transfer of Agroforestry Technology Suggested Readings