How did forest management in the colonial period affect the tribal people?
The colonial period In the 1920s, British colonial authorities in India made a number of attempts at introducing new local forest management systems. In Uttar Pradesh state, special local “forest councils” (van panchayats) were created with the objective of providing a buffer between state forests and local villagers . These councils were a means to redress intense local opposition to the reservation of large tracts of state forest lands. It was thought that the management of local forests should be carried out under regulations drawn up and agreed upon by local communities. The van panchayat council, which had a patron-client relationship with the larger village community, could make rules dealing with local forest utilization, based on general regulations issued by the government. The council was empowered to fine offenders, impound cattle and deny a household use of forest resources if any of its members broke the rules. To ensure adherence to the rules, including proper and fair ut
