ABSTRACT
This paper has been prepared realizing the importance of the homegarden in the rural economy of the khasia community at jaflong region. An exploratory survey was designed to elicit relevant information covering socio-economic characteristics of the villagers, components of home garden, income from primary, secondary, and other sources. It is revealed from the study area that almost 30% households have no land as well as almost 70% of the household had land ranging >0.20 (ha), which are significantly higher. Average family size was 7 members. The income of the study area varies from 10000 to more than 150000. Main occupation of the people was the cultivation of betel leaf (Piper betle) & Betel nut (Areca cetechu). Beside these most of the rural people preferred to plant fruit trees like Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Mango (Mangifera indica), pepe (Carica papaya). As timber species they preferred Mango (Mangifera indica), Raintree (Albizia saman), Champa (Michelia champaca). As fuel wood species Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Mango (Mangifera indica) was used. As non timber species Bamboo (Bambusa spp) was preferred. Only betel leaf & Betel nut are sold to the market. The rest products are consumed by themselves. From the study it was observed that about 64% people (both male and female) are illiterate due to lack of awareness. No fisheries were found at the study area. Due to the lacking of technical knowledge as well as natural calamity, the management system was also hampered. Home garden is the existence of the rural people. Getting interest from homegarden the people will be interested to do large plantation.
