Economy of the Agro-Pastoral Tibetans in the Torbo Region, N. W. Nepal : Torbo Ethnography : No.2

Abstract

It is necessary to consider some of the general characteristics of the Torbo region before proceeding to a more intensive study of a Tibetan village (Tsarka) in this area. This article presents a somewhat minute description of the economy, with special emphasis on the modes of production including commerce in the region. First, the location and general character of the region are described. Three chapters deal with the agriculture. Items therein considered are : a. crops, b. their distribution pattern, c. crop zones, d. cultivated areas and their nomenclature, e. landownership, f. non-cultivated and abandoned fields, g. labour and cultivation techniques according to methods of ploughing, irrigation, sowing, manuring, weeding, harvesting and threshing. Then follow 3 chapters on animal husbandry : a. kinds of animals, b. methods of breeding, c. distribution patterns, d. pastures, e. tent sites, f. summer pasture-population, g. rotation of pastures, h. borrowing of pastures, i. grazing in relation of size of herds and labour availability, k. labour necessary for the upkeep of herds and pastures, 1. milking and milk-products, m. winter pastures and trusted pasturing. An equally important activity is trade by animal caravans : a. the functions of caravan trade, b. caravan life and its composition, c. routes, d. patterns of bargaining etc. Finally productive activity as a whole is described, emphasizingly the integral unity and importance of cultivation, pastoralism and trade : a. the reciprocal relations between cultivation and pastoralism, b. pastralism and trade, c. trade and cultivation, are successively observed. Yet the integral aspects of this "trinity" are more important than their overt respective relations. A case of the existing harmony in annual distribution of labour is cited as an example. Integration in productive activities is combined with consumption. The prevailing economy, in turn, seems to occupy an important place in understanding Torbo culture and social structure. Further analysis is entrusted to other members of the Expedition.