Pastoralists in the Modern World – Class 9 History Notes
Pastoralists are people who move from one place to another with their animals for grazing. They do not settle in one place permanently. This chapter discusses the importance of pastoralism in India and Africa, the impact of British rule, and how pastoralists have adapted to modern challenges.
1. Who are Pastoralists?
- Pastoralists are nomadic people who move with their cattle, sheep, goats, or camels.
- They depend on natural pastures and follow seasonal migration patterns.
- Pastoralism is common in hilly areas, deserts, and grasslands.
2. Pastoral Communities in India
2.1 Pastoralists in the Mountains
- Gujjar Bakarwals (Jammu & Kashmir): Move between Siwalik hills (winter) and Kashmir valley (summer).
- Gaddi Shepherds (Himachal Pradesh): Travel between low hills and Lahul-Spiti.
- Gujjars (Garhwal & Kumaon): Move between bhabar forests (winter) and bugyals (summer pastures).
2.2 Pastoralists in the Plateaus, Plains, and Deserts
- Dhangars (Maharashtra): Stay in dry regions and migrate after harvesting.
- Banjaras (Rajasthan, MP, UP, Maharashtra, Punjab): Traders and cattle rearers.
- Raikas (Rajasthan, Thar Desert): Some rear camels, others sheep and goats.
- Gollas, Kurumas, Kurubas (Andhra Pradesh & Karnataka): Cattle and sheep herders.
3. Impact of British Rule on Pastoralists
- Waste Land Rules: Pastures were converted into farmland.
- Forest Acts: Many forests were restricted for grazing.
- Criminal Tribes Act (1871): Some pastoral communities were declared criminals.
- Grazing Tax: Taxes were imposed on every animal grazing in pastures.
4. How Did Pastoralists Cope?
- Reduced herd sizes due to less grazing land.
- Found new pastures (e.g., Raikas moved to Haryana).
- Some became farmers, others took up trade or jobs.
5. Pastoralism in Africa
5.1 Maasai Pastoralists (Kenya & Tanzania)
- Lost 60% of land under British rule.
- Restricted movement due to national parks and borders.
- Droughts and lack of grazing land led to loss of cattle.
5.2 Changes in Maasai Society
- Before British Rule: Maasai had elders (leaders) and warriors (protectors).
- After British Rule: Chiefs were appointed by British and some pastoralists became poor laborers.
6. Conclusion
- Pastoralism is still important in hilly and dry areas.
- Modern problems like urbanization, deforestation, and climate change impact pastoralists.
- Despite challenges, pastoralists have adapted by trading, farming, and lobbying for rights.
FAQs
Q1: Who are pastoralists? A: Pastoralists are nomadic people who move with their animals for grazing.
Q2: What problems did pastoralists face under British rule? A: Land loss, restricted movement, heavy taxes, and criminalization.
Q3: Why is pastoralism still important today? A: It helps in maintaining grasslands, soil fertility, and livestock farming.