Question

Describe the different categories of forests according to the Forest Law of 1878.

Answer 1

The Indian Forest Act of 1878 categorized forests into three types:

1. Reserve Forests - These forests are strictly government reserves and cannot be accessed by local people.

2. Protected Forests - Local use cannot be reduced from such forests, and hence they are protected, with limited access to prevent further depletion of its resources.

3. Village Forests - These forests are open to villagers and are meant to be used for their sustenance.