How was the life of pastoralists affected by Forest Acts? Explain.

(a) causes: The government wanted to preserve forests for timber production. So there was need to restrict the felling of trees and grazing.
(b) Effects on the lives of pastoralists: (l) These acts divided forest into three categories: reserved, protected and village forests. The best forests were the ‘reserved forests’ Villagers could not take anything from these forests, even for their own use. No pastoralist was allowed access to these forests.
(ii) In the protected forests, some customary grazing rights of pastoralists were granted but their movements were severely restricted.
(iii) These Forest Acts changed the lives of pastoralists:
1. They were prevented from entering many forests. Their movements Were regulated.
2. They needed a permit for entry. The permit specified the periods in which they could be legally within a forest. If they overstayed they were liable to fines.
3. As there was shortage of grazing lands a large number of animals died.
4. It also affected the health of the animals.
5. Pastoralists were compelled to change their places and occupations.