Class 9 Social Science — Chapter 5: Pastoralists in the Modern World

Understand the definition of nomadic pastoralists as people who move with their herds from one area to another to earn their living, and recognize their historical importance.

Describe the annual cyclical movement of the Gujjar Bakarwals, herders of goat and sheep, between their summer grazing grounds in the high mountains of Kashmir and their winter base in the low hills of the Siwalik range. Understand the concept of a 'kafila'.

Explain the seasonal migration pattern of the Gaddi shepherds, who move flocks of sheep and goats from the Siwalik hills in winter to the high mountain meadows of Lahul and Spiti in summer.

Understand the pattern of cyclical movement between summer and winter pastures common to Himalayan communities (Gujjars, Gaddis, Bhotiyas, etc.). Grasp how this continuous movement prevents overuse of pastures and allows them to recover, making effective use of seasonal resources like 'bugyals' (high meadows) and 'bhabar' (dry forests).

Analyze the seasonal migration of the Dhangar shepherds from the semi-arid central plateau of Maharashtra during the monsoon to the fertile Konkan coast after the kharif harvest. Understand their symbiotic relationship with Konkani peasants, manuring fields in exchange for grain.

Identify the pastoral communities of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, such as the Gollas (cattle herders) and Kurumas/Kurubas (sheep/goat herders). Understand that their movement is dictated by the alternation of monsoon and dry seasons, not by cold and snow.

Explain how the Raikas of the Thar desert combine pastoralism with cultivation to adapt to a region with meagre and uncertain rainfall. Describe their seasonal movement in search of pasture and water, and differentiate between the Maru Raikas (camel herders) and others (sheep/goat herders).

Recognize the Banjaras as a well-known group of graziers found across several states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Understand their lifestyle of moving over long distances to find good pastureland, often selling plough cattle and other goods to villagers.