Traditional knowledge, weather prediction and bioindicators : A case study in Mizoram, Northeastern India

Abstract

The tribal peoples of Mizoram formerly forecasted the weather through applications of long-standing Traditional Ecological Knowledge. In this study, 16 distinct bioindicators for weather forecasting based were documented working with tribal peoples. The bioindicators were based mainly on the recognition of unique situations, the behaviour of insects, birds and mammals, characteristics of plants, and location, timing and patterns of clouds, lightning, wind, moon, sun and stars. The successful application of the forecasting knowledge is based on comparison with past events, good prognosis, close observation and a thorough understanding of the local environment. Community members, cultural leaders and local elders have observed recent anomalies in the weather, with unusual rains and abrupt changes in temperature. Due to this phenomenon, some plant species are changing their growth patterns. This type of Traditional Knowledge has excellent potential for wider application, yet, in Mizoram, as elsewhere, there is a threat to people’s livelihoods and bicultural diversity. Today, more than ever, there is an urgent need to document all traditional knowledge and folklore among the diverse ethnic communities before the traditional cultures are completely lost.