In addition, they hold most of the local government positions. They are now aspiring to higher district and legislative positions. In general, the Jatapu have a friendly, considerate spirit that prevails at all times. They are exceptionally clean, and most Jatapu men are loving fathers. The Jatapu predominantly work as farmers and forest laborers.
Rice is their staple crop, and grains, peas, beans, chilies, and tobacco leaves are also grown.
In addition, they collect and sell minor forest produce. A few Jatapu sell pottery, baskets, or bangles, but very few work as craftsmen. They generally do not spin, weave, make pottery, or work as carpenters until they come in greater contact with the plains peoples. A typical Jatapu village consists of mud houses lined in rows. The homes are joined to each other with common outer walls and a long thatched roof.