Question

Effects of colonial forest laws on natural environment in india

Answer 1

The present condition of forests in the Garhwal Himalaya results from traditional use by local inhabitants and from government legislation. This paper discusses the impact of human activities on the forest and land resources of the region over the past 200 years. During British occupation (1815-1947) the region was divided into two parts-British Garhwal, controlled by the British government in India, and Tehri State, governed by a native king. The systems of management were similar in each area, although the Forest Department was better organized in British Garhwal. The major causes of deforestation were traditional practices such as the clearing of forest for agriculture and settlement. This cleared land was exempt from government revenue collection for many years and this was one reason why small scattered villages were established in distant forests by local people. Land settlement first took place in British Garhwal and occurred much later in Tehri State. Land resources, including forest, were the major source of revenue and State intervention in forest use resulted in unrest among Himalayan peasants. This dependence on forests for revenue increased significantly after Independence, with consequent environmental degradation and new social tensions.