Question

What was the impact of the Madras Forest Act of 1882on the tribals of Gudem Hills of Andhra Pradesh?

• A. The tribals were not allowed to enter the forest areas to graze their cattle, collect firewood, fruits, and vegetables.
• B. Tribals were allowed to practise podu agriculture.
• C. Tribals were restricted from practising their traditional podu agricultural system.
• D. Tribals were forced to contribute begar for the construction of roads.

Answer 1

Answer: (A), (C), (D)

Tribals were forced to contribute begar for the construction of roads.

The tribals of the Gudem Hills of Andhra Pradesh struggled due to the Madras Forest Act of 1882, introduced by the Colonial Government. Based on this Act, the Colonial Government had closed off large areas of this forest, preventing people from entering the forest areas to graze their cattle, collect firewood, fruits, and vegetables. The Act also restricted the Tribal people from practising their traditional podu agricultural system, a form of shifting cultivation using slash and burn methods. They were also forced to contribute begar for the construction of roads.