Why does agriculture employ most of Nagaland’s population?

Agriculture serves as the primary source of employment for approximately nine-tenths of the population in Nagaland, largely due to the state's historical economic structure and reliance on traditional land-use practices.1

The economy has long been defined by limited industrial development, which was historically hindered by poor transportation, communication infrastructure, and a lack of financial resources. Consequently, the vast majority of the population has remained engaged in primary sector activities, specifically farming and forestry.21

The agricultural landscape is dominated by the widespread practice of jhum, or shifting cultivation. While this method is traditional, it has contributed to soil erosion and reduced fertility over time. Aside from the terracing and irrigation techniques utilized by the Angami and Chakhesang tribes in the southern regions, most agricultural work relies on traditional implements such as the dao (a multipurpose heavy knife), the sickle, and the light hoe, rather than the plow. Despite this high level of labor participation, the state remains dependent on food imports from neighboring regions.1