Seasonal Migration

1.Cyclical Movement: These communities practice seasonal migration to make the most effective use of the pastures available to them. In winter, they move to lower altitudes like the Siwalik range where scrub forests provide ample grazing ground. As summer approaches, they begin their journey to higher altitudes where pastures become available due to melting snow.

2.Kafila: Groups of households often join together to form a ‘kafila’ for mutual support and security during their migratory journey, particularly when crossing challenging areas like the Pir Panjal passes.

3.Local Adaptations: While all these communities practice seasonal migration, each has its specific routes and destinations based on localised conditions. For example, the Gujjar Bakarwals go to the valley of Kashmir, the Gaddis spend their summer in Lahul and Spiti, and the Gujjar cattle herders of Garhwal and Kumaon move to high meadows known as bugyals.

Ecological Wisdom

1.Sustainable Use: The cyclical movement allows the pasture lands to recover, thereby practicing a sustainable form of animal husbandry. They essentially prevent the overuse and exhaustion of pastures.