Physical Environment and Diversified Rural Livelihoods in Tripura- A Case Study of West Tripura District

A B S T R A C T 
The present paper is an investigation to explore the rapport between physical environment and 
the livelihood patterns of the habitants on the roots of primary data gathered from the 
household’s survey through structured interview schedule method in the rural areas of West 
Tripura district, Tripura, India. The physical condition of this area is dynamic and keeps 
changing with the intervention of cultural groups. Climate of the study area is typified by sub
tropical monsoon type and South – West Monsoon provides huge rainfall. Generally, the natural 
vegetation of the state falls under tropical wet evergreen with lush green (75%) forests due to the 
touch of the urbanization. The undulating uplands and lowlands and floodplains are used for 
agricultural activities and rubber plantation. The irrigation facilities are good in the rural areas of 
the study area. River system provides water for the agricultural and other allied activities. The 
numerable wetlands facilitate the rural people to practice fishing and soil provides to build brick 
industry in the study area. The other livelihood patterns are also reflecting their culture and their 
adaptation with the physical environment as culture is largely depended upon the environment. 
The calm and pleasurable climate help the people to earn good amount of money for their bread 
and butter and with that money, they are slightly changing their lifestyle and quality of life. 
Key words: Physical environment, Livelihood, Habitats, Agriculture, Plantation, Climate.