This article analyses the facets of eco-cosmology by discussing the Apatani native agriculture which is nurtured by ecological knowledge as well as shamanic rotational ritual interventions. Reciprocity in agrarian realm, ethical attitude of water distribution, tribal wisdom and cultural knowledge associated with ecological sustainability normalise the ecological protection. Aversion to chemical fertilizers on part of the Apatanis is tied with the integrated nutrient management and spiritual considerations. Using the paradigm of agricultural anthropology, this article focuses on sustainability by depicting the indigenous philosophy of soil and water conservation, efficient use of limited irrigation water avoiding soil salinity, crop rotations that mitigate disease besides insect glitches, and thus minimizing soil erosion. Elaborate agricultural rituals are in essence the periodical appeals to deities of earth and sky. The shaman-priests ensure a balanced concord between the humans, cosmos and the larger ecosystem including flora, fauna, fishery and cattle.
Sacred myths of Apatanis reveal cosmological antecedents of migration and origin of human beings and paddy. Indeed, the origin myth of Apatani tribe is tied with mythical beginning of agricultural knowledge. There are agrarian rituals performed by shaman through sacred recitation of legends which recount how Abotani arrived at the valley and introduced agriculture.
At every stage of agricultural calendar there are special rituals performed to appease the particular divinity. Solemnization of periodical agricultural rituals, involving shamans and priests, the sacrifices and rice-beer oblations are all meant to seek good agricultural yield and healthy human life (Das 2014). An innovation rooted in sustainability observable in Apatani villages is the integrated ‘rice-fish cultivation’ which is a low-cost practice to obtain high value protein, nutritional security and high income. Integrating fish with agriculture assures higher per hectare economic productivity and year-round employment opportunities, especially for the womenfolk. (Das 2021).
