Jhum cultivation or slash and burn agriculture is a common traditional practice of nearly 64 countries across the globe. This is a common farming practice in the hilly terrain of Northeast Indian states, including Assam. However, the rapid increase in human population reduces the jhum cycle (fallow period), hindering the ecological and economic sustainability of the primaeval agricultural practice. Overall, the livelihoods of the jhumias are adversely affected. Jhum agriculture is intricately associated with socioeconomic and cultural fabric of many ethnic communities across the globe, serving as the sole source of their sustenance. Besides, the jhum fields play a pivotal role in sequestering carbon, offsetting the release during the preparation of the field. By maintaining the carbon neutrality, the mountain agriculture protects the hydrological features of the landscape, reduces soil erosion, and improves soil organic carbon and nutrient profiles. Therefore, safeguarding jhum agriculture is important to protect the dependent livelihoods and hill ecosystems. Accordingly, the present chapter outlines a focused overview of the current livelihood status of the jhumias of Northeast India. This chapter also offers insights into the various challenges of jhumming and possible strategies for improving this traditional practice.