Revisiting the Traditional Agricultural Implements of the Meiteis of Manipur

Abstract

This paper tries to document the various implements of agriculture used by the Meiteis. Endeavour is also made to some extent to show the development of these tools from the early period. This study is carried out by conducting field survey in different parts of the Manipur valley, and by basing on the literatures – published and unpublished. Informations are collected through personal interview and group discussion with the farmers. In each stage of social development the tools got improved. 17th century is the turning point in the history of agriculture that plough drawn by bullock or buffalo was introduced for the first time during the reign of Khagemba (1597 – 1652 A.D.). Different kinds of agricultural tools were used extensively along with animal power. They are still in use in Manipur side by side with the modern tools and many people depend on them. Traditional tools and implements dominate over the modern equipments in some remote areas of the Manipur valley