What is purpose of kaingin?

Kaingin, or slash-and-burn agriculture, is a traditional farming practice primarily used in tropical regions. Its purpose is to clear land for cultivation by cutting down vegetation and burning it, which enriches the soil with ash and provides nutrients for crops. This method allows farmers to quickly create arable land, but it can lead to deforestation and environmental degradation if not managed sustainably. Despite its benefits for short-term agricultural productivity, it poses significant ecological risks.