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Bah Phranstar Shabong, a traditional knowledge holder and custodian farmer from Mynriah village, East Khasi Hills, is someone who still practices a unique traditional method of sowing and harvesting based on the moon cycle.
Bah Phrangstar Shabong in his garden
He observes the various cyclic moon phases from a Khasi calendar Almanac (an annual calendar containing important dates and statistical information). The calendarbrings forward vital information with regards to the moon’s cyclic movement which he still follows holistically. Besides depending on the almanac for moon phase information, he also observes the moon on his own to verify the cycle. It is only during the period of a new moon, he would start sowing. He believes by doing this, it prevents the crops from getting infected by pests and or destroyed by wild animals. But if sown during the period of a full moon, it attracts more pests to feed on the crops.
Crops grown in the garden
Based on the almanac, he believes that planting on a specific market day, locally known as ‘Sngi Iewduh’, is considered bad for the crops. Unfortunately, most of the people in his community are unaware and are least interested in this knowledgesystem. His insights and strong beliefs have been benefiting for many years. For over 25 years he has been practicing organic farming whereby he cultivates various food crops in his garden and in the fields. He also adopts his own methods of composting i.e, mixing dry leaves and animal manure to the soil. Most of his cultivated crops are sold to the market and in the community and they are always in high demand.
The Indigenous Almanac
He is of the view that chemical farming is highly expensive as compared to traditionalfarming. For him, the latter also improves soil health and keeps agricultural production at a sustainable level.
Bah Phranstar Shabong expressed, “I urge others to practice their traditional food production system and also adopt ways of observing the signs of nature for farming activities. This will enliven traditional farming and also enable us to stay healthy and live longer.”
