Pastoralism in Shimshal: Adapting old practices to meet new challenges

Shimshal is one of the valleys in Karakoram most favourably endowed with pasture resources. The pastures are a major asset of the community and a stable feature of agricultural practice. However, in recent years pastures have become increasingly difficult to access and the pastoral workforce has been declining, threatening the sustainability of combined mountain agriculture and the livelihood of local farmers/herders. There are many factors behind this change. Due to increased outmigration and the lack of interest in pastoralism among the youth, it is hard to find skilled persons who can endure the harsh conditions of life in the pastures, and pasture management responsibilities have shifted from male to female household members. At the same time, however, farmers/herders of Shimshal are trying hard to resist encroachment on their ancestral lands and fend off territorial claims from neighbouring communities and external interference that could lead to their dispossession. This article examines the role of pastoralism in ensuring the social and economic well-being of the Shimshal community. It also looks at how community members have adapted their pastoral practices in the face of rapid social, economic and environmental changes.