How did commercial farming lead to a decline in forest cover during colonial period?

The factors which led to deforestation during the colonial rule are as follows:

A. Production of commercial crops like sugar, wheat, Jute and cotton was encouraged by the British. The demands for these crops increased in the 19th century Europe because food grains were needed to feed the growing urban population and raw materials were required for growing industries.

B. In the 19th century, the colonial government thought that forests were unproductive. The land had to be brought under cultivation, which would increase food production and revenue. Between 1880 and 1920 cultivation area rose by 6.7 million hectares. Large areas of forests, considered to be wilderness was brought under cultivation.

C. The oak forests were fast depleting. It became a problem to supply timber for the Royal Navy. Ships could not be built without a regular supply of timber. Ships were needed to protect the overseas colonies. By 1820 search parties were sent to explore forest resources in India. Trees were being cut on a large scale and exported to England.

D. Wood was needed as fuel Lo run locomotives and to lay sleepers which could hold the railways tracks. As early as 1850, 3500 trees were Cut annually in Madras presidency for sleepers.