Which policy of the British greatly affected the tribal landholding patterns and led to widespread discontent among the tribes, thereby fueling rebellions?​

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (D) Forest Laws and land settlements.

Explanation:

• The Forest Laws and the introduction of various land settlement policies by the British had a profound impact on tribal landholding patterns in India.

• Forest Laws restricted the tribal communities' traditional rights to collect forest produce, hunt, and practice shifting cultivation, leading to their alienation from their ancestral lands.

• The British also introduced land settlements that often disregarded the tribal customs and landholding practices, resulting in the dispossession of tribal lands by non-tribal settlers and the colonial administration.

• These policies led to widespread discontent among the tribes, which contributed to several major tribal rebellions, such as the Santhal Rebellion, Munda Rebellion, and Bhils Rebellion.

Information Booster:

• The Santhal Rebellion (1855-1856) was one of the most notable uprisings against British policies, fueled by the displacement of tribal people and the exploitation of land.

• Munda Tribes in Chotanagpur were affected by the Forest Laws and land settlements, leading to the Munda Rebellion (1899-1900) led by Birsa Munda.

• The British Forest Act of 1878 was a significant turning point, as it not only restricted tribal rights but also imposed severe restrictions on access to forest resources.