Question

How did various Forests Acts affect the lives of Indian pastoralists?

Answer 1

Various Forest Acts deeply affected the lives of pastoralists.
(i) All their freedom was snatched. They were now prevented from entering many forests that had earlier provided valuable forage for their cattle.
(ii) Even in the areas they were allowed entry, their movements were regulated. They needed a permit for entry. The timing of their entry and departure was specified and the number of days they could spend in the forest was limited.
(iii) Pastoralists could no longer remain in an area even if forage was available; the grass was succulant and the undergrowth in the forest was ample.
(iv) Thus, their life was now ruled by the Forest Department permits that had been issued to them. The permit specified the periods in which they could be legally within a forest. If they overstayed they were fined.