Preserving Indigenous Irrigation Wisdom

Indigenous knowledge (IK) is a valuable knowledge system available to a particular group of communities. This knowledge system forms the basis of identity for various indigenous communities in the world. It is a holistic knowledge system alternative to the knowledge imparted in the formal education system. So, IK has numerous facets within it. This paper discusses the facet of agriculture; the indigenous irrigation system practised by the Tangkhul Tribe in Manipur, India. A survey was conducted in Ukhrul District, Manipur, to understand the traditional irrigation system used by the Tangkhul Tribe. Field Interviews and observation methods were used to collect the data. Respondents consist of a farmer over the age of sixty. The main objective of the study was to document the traditional process irrigation system that includes methods, raw materials and tools used. The study found that the irrigation system used in the study area is purely indigenous and sustainable