Understanding Sustainability-Study of a Hill Settlement

Study of a Hill Settlement Rinki Sarkar The notion of sustainability' assumes special significance for settlements which survive amidst ecologically fragile upland conditions. This is exemplified by assessing the production and livelihood systems adopted by inhabitants of a settlement located in the northern mountainous tribal belt of Himachal Pradesh. The main finding is that traditional practices regarding livelihood systems (mainly agriculture and livestock-raising) were entirely subservient to ecological conditions. Historically speaking, the 'Rajah's' equitable land distribution policy and the resultant phenomenon of universal land ownership may have fostered these sustainable practices. A legacy of the past, these practices are noticeable even today. Under these circumstances the question of sustainability assumes new significance.