Forest Society and Colonialism | Colonial Forest Policies MCQs Quiz | Class 9
This Class IX History quiz covers the Unit: Livelihoods, Economies and Societies, focusing on Forest Society and Colonialism. The questions address key topics such as reserved forests, the impact of colonial policies on shifting cultivation, and scientific forestry. Test your understanding, view the detailed solutions, and download the PDF for exam preparation.
Overview: Forest Society and Colonialism
In the 19th century, the British colonial government in India introduced new forest laws to control natural resources. This period saw the rise of commercial forestry, driven by the demand for timber for railway sleepers and the Royal Navy. The Indian Forest Service was set up by Dietrich Brandis in 1864 to manage these resources scientifically.
Key Concepts & Terms
- Scientific Forestry: A system where natural forests with diverse species were cut down and replaced by one type of tree planted in straight rows.
- Shifting Cultivation (Swidden Agriculture): A traditional practice where parts of the forest are cut and burnt in rotation. The British banned this practice, considering it harmful to timber production and a fire risk.
- Sleepers: Wooden planks laid across railway tracks to hold the tracks in position. This created a massive demand for sturdy timber like Sal and Teak.
- 1878 Forest Act: This Act divided forests into three categories: Reserved, Protected, and Village forests.
Comparison: Forest Categories (1878 Act)
| Category | Rights & Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Reserved Forests | The best forests. Villagers could not take anything from these forests, even for their own use. |
| Protected Forests | Villagers could take wood for fuel or house building, but only with specific permission. |
| Village Forests | Forests assigned to villages for community use, though still under regulation. |
Extra Practice Questions
- Who was the first Inspector General of Forests in India? (Ans: Dietrich Brandis)
- In which year was the Imperial Forest Research Institute set up in Dehradun? (Ans: 1906)
- What is the local term for shifting cultivation in Central America? (Ans: Milpa)
- Why did the British encourage the killing of tigers and wolves? (Ans: They were seen as signs of a wild and savage society)
- Which tribe in Central India was recruited to work on tea plantations? (Ans: Gonds / Santhals)
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