Agriculture forms the backbone of Majuli’s livelihood. The island's soil is exceptionally fertile due to the annual silt deposited by the Brahmaputra's floodwaters, allowing for completely organic farming practices in many areas without the need for artificial fertilizers.
Rice is the dominant crop, and Majuli is famous for cultivating over 100 traditional, indigenous varieties of paddy, including *Bao Dhan* (a deep-water red rice that survives flood conditions), *Kumal Maal*, and *Boka Dhan*. Other significant crops include mustard, potatoes, black gram, and seasonal vegetables. Dairy farming and inland riverine fishing are also crucial components of the local food system.