Perceptions and practices of indigenous soil conservation measures in beas valley, Himachal Pradesh, India

This study delves into the perceptions and practices of indigenous soil conservation measures in the erosion-prone Upper Beas Valley of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India. The region's susceptibility to severe soil erosion poses significant challenges for sustainable agriculture. Employing a mixed-method approach, including Likert scale-based surveys, field observations, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, the research gathers insights from 106 participants. The questionnaire had eight questions and employed a Likert scale, which is a regularly used rating scale in behavioural research. Primary data were gathered in the form of surveys using a random sampling technique throughout the summer months of June 2023. The villages of Phozal, Manali, Katrain, and others like them were the primary focus of the study since they are situated along the riverfront in the upper Beas Valley. The study underscores the paramount role of traditional knowledge and practices in mitigating soil erosion. Techniques such as pre-monsoon plowing, filter strips, earthing-up, mulching, and soil compression have demonstrated their efficacy in restoring soil fertility and enhancing land productivity. The findings underscore the potential for refining perceptions and practices surrounding soil erosion and conservation, thereby indicating avenues for improved soil management and sustainable agriculture. This study highlights the importance of amalgamating indigenous wisdom with scientific insights to develop holistic strategies for erosion control, soil management, and heightened agricultural yield. By recognizing and integrating local knowledge, context-specific solutions can be devised for similar regions grappling with soil erosion challenges. Scientific data, gathered from multiple sources like CRU rainfall data, FAO soil maps, and satellite imagery, revealed the spatial distribution of erosion risk, enhancing our understanding of soil erosion dynamics in the Beas Valley. This study highlights the importance of amalgamating indigenous wisdom with scientific insights to develop holistic strategies for erosion control, soil management, and heightened agricultural yield. By recognizing and integrating local knowledge, context-specific solutions can be devised for similar regions grappling with soil erosion challenges.